🗺️ Shinjuku Golden Gai新宿ゴールデン街

Shinjuku Golden Gai is located in Shinjuku's Kabukicho, and it is a nostalgic old street. The narrow alleys are densely packed with about 300 izakayas set in wooden townhouses, making it a favorite among foreign tourists who want to experience Japanese culture. Most of the establishments are small shops with only enough space for a bar counter, where customers sit shoulder to shoulder, allowing for close interaction with the staff. Even if you go alone to drink, you can enjoy the pleasure of drinking in a lively atmosphere filled with a strong sense of community. Golden Gai not only has many long-established old shops, but in recent years, there have also been more small bars run by the younger generation, each with its own unique character. A recommended way to enjoy Golden Gai is to not stay too long in one place, but to visit several different bars to experience their various styles.

Almost every izakaya is quite small, and it's best to go with 1 to 3 people. The retro-style izakaya alley is quite unique. Eating or smoking on the street is prohibited. It was once famous for being a gathering place for writers, actors, and other cultural figures. As a spot where you can experience Japanese culture up close, it attracts many foreign tourists. Most shops probably start operating around 7:00 PM, and depending on the establishment, there may be an additional service charge.