Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, Japan

Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours

Outty Ranking 49 4.2 · 24 traveler reviews3.5 hoursFrom ¥13,500
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Outty Ranking

49/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.2/5

Based on 24 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours worth booking?

Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours is a 3.5-hour experience in Tokyo, Japan, from ¥13,500 per person. It scores 49 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 24 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
49 / 100
Rating
4.2/5 (24)
Duration
3.5 hours
From
¥13,500 per person

We will explore the most part of Shinjuku, from the west side to the east side of the station, the busiest area in Tokyo to show you popular spots and local spots. We will take you to three Izakaya (Japanese restaurants and bars). Japanese foods and drinks, learn about Japanese culture and history with our knowledgeable guide. ■Discover the hidden gems of Shinjuku's bar scene ■Enjoy at least 6 different dishes(chicken skewers, okonomiyaki, gyoza and more) and 3 drinks (sake, Shochu, Japanese beer, and other unique drinks) from 3 unique izakayas ■Gain an understanding of the local customs and culture ■If you are more than 10 minutes late without notice, your tour will be cancelled and you will be charged for it. ■A reservation one day in advance is a pending request. It should be comfirmed before the tour if you can join. ■In the case of the minimum required participants not being met, kindly request a cancellation 这个旅游活动也有中文的举办 Message us when you prefer Chinese

What you get

    About this experience

    We will explore the most part of Shinjuku, from the west side to the east side of the station, the busiest area in Tokyo to show you popular spots and local spots. We will take you to three Izakaya (Japanese restaurants and bars). Japanese foods and drinks, learn about Japanese culture and history with our knowledgeable guide. ■Discover the hidden gems of Shinjuku's bar scene ■Enjoy at least 6 different dishes(chicken skewers, okonomiyaki, gyoza and more) and 3 drinks (sake, Shochu, Japanese beer, and other unique drinks) from 3 unique izakayas ■Gain an understanding of the local customs and culture ■If you are more than 10 minutes late without notice, your tour will be cancelled and you will be charged for it. ■A reservation one day in advance is a pending request. It should be comfirmed before the tour if you can join. ■In the case of the minimum required participants not being met, kindly request a cancellation 这个旅游活动也有中文的举办 Message us when you prefer Chinese

    What's included

    Included

    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Photos
    • Local Guide
    • Dinner

    Not included

    • Transportation costs
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off

    What you'll see and do

    1. Nishishinjuku

      We'll be visiting the first izakaya restaurant here.

      60 minutes here

    2. Omoide Yokocho

      Omoide Yokocho, a maze of narrow alleys close to the West Exit of Shinjuku Station, stands in stark contrast to all the bright and clean modern environs of the station. Tiny restaurants and open barbecue food stalls spill their smoke, noise and greasy steam over alleys hardly wide enough to stretch out your arms.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Kabukicho

      We'll be visiting the first second and third izakaya restaurant here. Kabukicho is an area of leisure and pleasure like no other, a kind of red light district. Vast citadel of the party and vice, in this neighborhood you will find plenty of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

      120 minutes here

    4. Godzilla Road & Head

      Godzilla Head

      Pass by without stopping

    5. Hanazono Shrine

      Hanazono Shrine

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Shinjuku Golden Gai

      Golden Gai is warren of small bars just east of Kabukicho that preserves the atmosphere and architecture of 1960's Tokyo.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Tokyo

    The meeting point is just in front of "the 3rd Burger."

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    It's one of the most famous izakaya street called "Golden Street"

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Japan Insider Tours

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, photo 2Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, photo 3Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, photo 4Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, photo 5Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, photo 6Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours in Tokyo, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 24 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    7 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    24 verified traveler reviews for Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    17
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    4
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    Brian_S · January 2024

    Disappointing

    Tour guide had no idea what she was doing. Places she brought us had terrible food. One one restaurant, she got us lost and walked 20min in the wrong direction

    via Viator

    Lisa_S · December 2023

    Hasnt shared photos

    Tour guide was acceptable but didnt share many facts or stories, we could have walked ourselves around for less cost. It was nice to have someone take you into certain restaurants. We choose this tour in part due to the photos that our guide would take, however the tour company has not shared any of the group photos despite multiple Whatsapp requests, which is very disapointing.

    via Viator

    morganvrana · November 2023

    Best night ever!

    My boyfriend and I had an amazing night with Miharu. We had wonderful food, drinks, and conversations. She made us feel right at home! Such great memories were made that night. Lots of laughs too! I can’t thank you enough, Miharu. You truly made the beginning of our vacation perfect. Arigato gozaimasu! 🥰 - Morgan and Jordan

    via Viator

    honeylaw · November 2023

    Great gastronomic experience

    Miharu was a great guide with lots of knowledge about the food and social history of the areas we visited. She chose a good variety of restaurants where we were able to sample a range of cuisines and have a true local experience. Highly recommend!

    Response from the operator: We are immensely grateful for your wonderful review. It's heartening to know that Miharu's extensive knowledge about the food and social history of the areas you visited was so well-appreciated, and that you thoroughly enjoyed the authentic local experiences at the various restaurants.

    via Tripadvisor

    Dream562219 · October 2023

    Not what we hoped

    I was looking forward to a great night in Shunjuku but have to admit I was disappointed with this tour. Our guide was lovely but there was only my husband and I on the tour and this made for a slightly uncomfortable evening. I would have liked to learn more about japanese customs and the history of the area during the tour. The food was fine but there should be a mininmum number for the tour to take place. For a better experience, only book if you have a group with you.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We're glad to hear that you found our guide lovely, but we're sorry to learn that the tour did not fully meet your expectations. We understand your concerns regarding the number of participants. While we do conduct tours for small groups, including couples, we strive to ensure an engaging and comfortable experience for all guests. We believe that smaller groups can offer a more personalized and intimate exploration of Shinjuku's rich culture and history. Regarding the depth of information shared about Japanese customs and the history of the area, our guides are well-equipped to provide detailed insights and answer any specific questions guests may have. We encourage guests to express their interests during the tour, so our guides can tailor the information accordingly. Thank you for choosing our tour, and we hope to serve you better in the future.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    ¥13,500 to ¥15,000
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    8
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Japan Insider Tours, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 56.1.

    See everything Japan Insider Tours runs

    Why this scores 49

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)63
    Review evidence (18% weight)46
    Booking momentum (14% weight)37
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)7
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tokyo.

    How much does Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours cost?

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    Prices start at ¥13,500 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tokyo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours take?

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    Plan for about 3.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tokyo is not rushed.

    Is Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 49 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 24 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Tokyo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours?

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    Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tokyo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tokyo and add a light layer if any part of the 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tokyo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Tokyo?

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    Tokyo is less a city than a stack of neighborhoods with completely different opening hours. A guided food crawl through Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho gets you past the no-tourist curtains, while the day trips west to Hakone and Fuji need an early start to be worth the fare. Our ranking weighs guide quality heavily here, because in Tokyo the guide is the product. On Outty we rank every Tokyo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Best of Shinjuku: Izakaya Food Tour (3-4 Stops, 14+ Tastings), Matcha Making Class in Tokyo with Authentic Japanese Sweets Set, Tokyo: Asakusa Senso-ji Temple & Old Town Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

    +

    Late March to May for blossom, October to November for clear Fuji views. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Tokyo?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours?

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    Included: Alcoholic beverages; Photos; Local Guide; and Dinner. Not included: Transportation costs; and Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours?

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    The meeting point is just in front of "the 3rd Burger." Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Tokyo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Explore the Hidden Local Bars in Shinjuku - 3.5 Hours?

    +

    Across 24 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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