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Welcome to Shinjuku, a bustling district that's both a commercial powerhouse and a captivating playground. If you're a first-timer, the sheer number of things to see and do can feel overwhelming, but don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's a list of 13 fun and exciting things to do in Shinjuku that will give you a perfect taste of this amazing neighborhood.

1. Step Back in Time at Kitamura Camera

Before diving into the futuristic side of Shinjuku, lets take a moment to explore Kitamura Camera. This isn't just a shop; it's a treasure trove for photography enthusiasts. Even if you're not a photography buff, a visit here feels like a trip to a mini museum.

Inside, you'll find rows of vintage film cameras and classic lenses, each with its own story. It's a fantastic place to get lost in a different era and maybe even find a unique souvenir. Plus, this bustling Masashino Street is a fun little area to wander through (more on that later).

Taking a picture inside Kitamura Camera — Taking pics inside Kitamura Camera

Rolleiflex Camera for sale — Vintage Cameras

2. Get a Roaring View of Godzilla on Godzilla Road

You can't miss it—a massive, roaring Godzilla head peering over the buildings! It’s such a fun sight to see as you head towards Godzilla Road. This iconic monster is a must-see for any pop culture fan. You'll get a great view from the street below, but for a closer look, you can head up to Hotel Gracery. If you’re a Godzilla fan, you’ll be thrilled to know that this hotel offers uniquely designed Godzilla-themed rooms.

This neighborhood offers a lively street-level experience with diverse shops, restaurants, and bars that are best enjoyed at night when bright lights and crowds create a bustling, energetic atmosphere. Adding to its unique character, the area has a grungier vibe and isn't as pristine as other parts of Tokyo, with some trash visible on the streets—a contrast that gives the neighborhood an authentic and charming feel.

Godzilla Street Shinjuku Tokyo — Can you spot Godzilla in the back?

3. Get a Bird's Eye View from the Tokyo Metro Observation Deck

For a spectacular, panoramic view of the city, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck. This isn't your average viewpoint—it's completely free! Despite some initial worry about long lines, we found the queue to be incredibly well-organized and fast-moving. Although we visited on a cloudy day and missed seeing Mount Fuji, there were still plenty of other amazing sights to take in.

After admiring the view, we browsed the souvenir shop, which was full of irresistible products. We also took a break at the café and, as avid matcha fans, couldn't resist ordering a delicious matcha dessert. It was the perfect sweet treat to enjoy while taking in the stunning cityscapes from high above.

Tokyo Metropolitan Observation Deck — Observation Deck

4. Be Awed by the World's Largest Projection Mapping Show

We highly recommend timing your visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to end just before the world's largest projection mapping show begins. It takes place on the side of one of the buildings, and a sign will direct you to the viewing area as you exit the Metropolitan Government Building. We were able to snag a great spot to sit and watch the show without much trouble.

The vibrant animations bring the building to life, and the themes change regularly, so you might see anything from whimsical cartoons to dazzling abstract art. During our visit, our favorite sequence was a nostalgic Pac-Man theme. The music and classic characters were so much fun to see.

Projection Mapping Flowers — Spring Flowers

5. Wave at the Giant 3D Cat Digital Display

Another digital marvel in Shinjuku is the Cat Digital Display. We found this one to be even more charming than the Shiba Inu display in Shibuya. As you exit Shinjuku Station's east exit and wait to cross the street, you'll spot the massive 3D cat "living" on a digital billboard. It’s so mesmerizing to watch this kitty playfully meow at passersby. This whimsical and fun sight is especially captivating when viewed at night.

3D Cat Digital Display Shinjuku — 3D Cat Digital Display

6. Immerse Yourself in the Neon Glow of Kabukicho

Welcome to Kabukicho, the vibrant heart of Shinjuku's nightlife. Famous for its dazzling neon signs and crowded streets, this district is an entertainment hub that operates 24/7. Known as Japan’s largest red-light district, it's home to a wide variety of adult-themed venues and unique cultural experiences, where you'll often see entertainers on the street inviting people inside. The once-famous Robot Restaurant, known for its futuristic shows, has been revamped and is now the Samurai Restaurant Time.

While some locals once considered the area a bit sketchy due to its edgy feel compared to the rest of Tokyo, many people appreciate its lively mix of diverse restaurants and bustling bars. The historic Golden Gai district, in particular, is a popular spot that showcases the neighborhood's unique charm and vibrant energy.

Kabukicho streets at night — Kabukicho Nightlife

Shinjuku Robot Restaurant — Robot Restaurant

7. Step Inside Shinjuku Kabuki Hall

Located right in the heart of Kabukicho, Shinjuku Kabuki Hall is a vibrant spot that's part club, part arcade, and part bar. This lively hub gets more energetic as the night goes on, with a DJ spinning tunes to keep the atmosphere buzzing.

8. Sing Your Heart out at Karaoke Kan

You can't visit Japan without experiencing karaoke, and Karaoke Kan is one of the most famous chains. Unlike in the U.S., you'll rent a private room with your friends and choose from a massive library of songs.

Growing up in Japan, karaoke was one of my favorite after-school pastimes. Even now, these high-tech rooms have all the old and new songs—in both English and Japanese—for you to sing your heart out to. It's the perfect way to truly experience a staple of Japanese culture.

Singing karaoke at Karaoke Kan — Private Karaoke room at Karaoke Kan

9. Escape to Nature at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

You could easily spend an entire day leisurely exploring the massive Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This sprawling, lush oasis offers a beautiful and serene escape from the bustling streets of Shinjuku. Although we only managed to cover about a quarter of the grounds, we truly wish we had more time to soak in all the natural beauty. Our visit was made even more special when we later discovered that our mom had visited the same garden when she was a young adult.

For a break, the garden has numerous restaurants and cafes, including a convenient Starbucks. We stopped for dessert and drinks at Muroya, a traditional-style cafe that serves authentic Japanese cuisine and sweets. We indulged in some treats, but if you're a sushi lover, you'll be pleased to know they also offer adorable sushi sets that are perfect for a light lunch.

Shinjuku Gyoen Grounds — Shinjuku Skyscraper buildings in the distance

Matcha Warabi Mochi at Muroya — Matcha Warabi Mochi

10. Indulge in a Sweet Breakfast at St. Marc Cafe

When in Tokyo, skip the usual chains and head to St. Marc Cafe, a popular bakery where locals go. The cafe is famous for its ChocoCro, their signature chocolate croissant.

Step inside and you'll find a counter overflowing with delicious baked goods. If you're there in the morning, be sure to grab one of their affordable breakfast sets, which include a pastry and your choice of drink. We found a seating area with large windows, which was perfect for people-watching while enjoying a tasty breakfast.

St. Marc Morning Pastries — Freshly Baked Pastries

Breakfast at St. Marc Cafe — Enjoying our Breakfast Set

Seating in front of a window — Breakfast with a view of Shinjuku

11. Step Back in Time at Omoide Yokocho

Omoide Yokocho, which translates to Memory Lane in Japanese, is a narrow alley tucked away in Shinjuku, bustling with traditional food stalls and cozy izakayas. Believe it or not, it was once infamously known as “Piss Alley,” a nickname from a time long before the area was gentrified, so those days of street-side relieving are thankfully gone.

Today, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors eager to experience its nostalgic atmosphere. While some people feel it has become too touristy, locals still frequent the alley, enjoying its authentic vibe and delicious offerings amidst the lively crowd.

12. Musashino Street: A Delightful Find

While making our way to Kitmura Camera, we stumbled upon this charming and lively shopping district. The area proudly declares itself to be beautiful and safe, with colorful flags lining the streets to reinforce the message. We decided to stop for a quick lunch at a cozy udon shop, where we enjoyed a delicious meal that was served quickly and was surprisingly affordable.

This street is also home to a new and unique Don Quijote that opened earlier this year. Unlike other locations, this store specifically focuses on products that are popular with tourists, making it an excellent spot to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

Eating at a udon restaurant — Grabbing my meal from the counter

Shinjuku Musashino Street Entrance — Shinjuku Musashino Street View from Above

13. Shop 'til You Drop at Lumine

While Lumine, located inside the bustling Shinjuku Station, wasn't originally on our itinerary, we ended up exploring it more thoroughly since our hotel was nearby. We are so glad we did, as the store offers a delightful array of shopping options. Japan is well-known for its ability to make just about anything look adorable, and we discovered many unique, exclusive products created for the Japanese market.

This was especially true when we stumbled upon an exclusive Hello Kitty macaroon gift set at Laduree, which was too cute to resist. In addition to purchasing plenty of thoughtful gifts, we also treated ourselves to coffee and a large selection of mouthwatering pastries from DEAN & DELUCA.

Shopping at Shinjuku Station — Shopping at Lumine Shinjuku

Guided Nightlife Tours

If you'd prefer to explore with a guide or simply want to dive deeper into the local scene, these tours are a great way to experience Tokyo's nightlife. They offer unique perspectives and take you to spots you might not find on your own.

Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour: Get a real taste of Tokyo nightlife on this tour through Shinjuku. Led by a local, you'll visit three hidden izakayas and bars that only residents know about, giving you an authentic look into the city's party scene.
Tokyo: Shinjuku District Guided Walking Tour at Night: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Tokyo's nightlife with a guided nighttime tour of Kabukicho, Shinjuku's famous entertainment district. You'll explore iconic spots like Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley), Golden Gai, and Hanazono Shrine, experiencing the neon-lit streets as they come alive after dark.
Tokyo: Shibuya and Shinjuku Streets Guided Go-Karting Tour: For a truly unforgettable adventure, zip through the streets of Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Harajuku on a guided go-kart tour. A professional guide will lead the way and snap incredible photos of you as you cruise through the city's most famous districts.

Walking out of Shinjuku station in Tokyo

In a Nutshell: Your Shinjuku First-Timer's Checklist

There's so much to see and do in Shinjuku, you might need more than one night to explore this vibrant district. Here’s a quick recap of the must-do experiences: