Top reasons to visit Shinjuku
- Vibrant Shopping Scene: Shinjuku boasts an array of shopping malls and night shopping opportunities, making it a retail paradise.
- Cultural Landmarks: Visitors can explore serene shrines, art museums, and urban parks, offering a rich cultural experience.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The area is perfect for families, featuring parks for day trips and leisurely picnics.
- Diverse Accommodation: Shinjuku offers a range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to budget hostels.
- Dynamic Atmosphere: With friendly locals and picturesque scenery, Shinjuku captures the essence of Tokyo's vibrant life.
Find great hotels in and around Shinjuku
Shinjuku offers a diverse array of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to every traveller's needs. Renowned for its vibrant shopping scene and LGBTQIA-friendly atmosphere, this bustling district is perfect for both business trips and leisurely escapes. With numerous reviews highlighting the best hotels in Tokyo, you'll find the ideal base to explore the city's dynamic charm and cultural richness.
- Hotel Gracery Shinjuku: A distinguished 4-star hotel boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.0, Hotel Gracery Shinjuku is a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Shinjuku, this hotel offers a unique blend of modern aesthetics and Japanese culture, with themed rooms that include a special Godzilla room for fans of the iconic monster. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a sleek restaurant, a café, and convenient access to the bustling shopping district right at their doorstep.
- APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower: This 3-star hotel, with a guest rating of 8.4, is perfectly situated in Shinjuku's lively Kabukicho district, known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping experiences. The hotel features a contemporary design, ensuring comfort and functionality. Guests can take advantage of the on-site restaurant and business facilities, making it suitable for both leisure and business travellers. The well-appointed rooms provide a relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring the area.
- APA Hotel & Resort Nishishinjuku Gochome Ekimae Tower: Rated 8.8, this 3-star resort is approximately 1.6km away from Shinjuku, offering a tranquil retreat with a spa-themed focus. Guests can indulge in a variety of wellness facilities, including a full spa service, hot tubs, and a pool area that provides relaxation and rejuvenation. Its proximity to the city allows guests to explore Shinjuku while enjoying the serene atmosphere and extensive amenities designed for relaxation.
Where to stay near Shinjuku
Shinjuku offers a vibrant blend of urban life and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. Explore nearby parks for serene escapes, venture to the bustling streets of Shibuya for shopping and dining, or discover the lively atmosphere of Shin Okubo Station. With its friendly locals and picturesque scenery, Shinjuku serves as a gateway to experience the dynamic essence of Tokyo and its surrounding areas.
- Tokyo: As a vibrant metropolis, Tokyo is a bustling hub of culture, entertainment, and innovation. Shinjuku, located within its heart, offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from expansive shopping malls to serene parks. Visitors flock to Tokyo year-round, with peak times in spring and autumn, drawn by family-friendly attractions and outdoor adventures. You can explore iconic landmarks such as theme parks, mountains, and sports stadiums, ensuring a thrilling experience for all ages. With its blend of modernity and tradition, Tokyo promises an unforgettable journey through its diverse districts.
- Kabukicho: Just a short distance from Shinjuku, Kabukicho is renowned as Tokyo's entertainment district. This lively neighbourhood offers a unique city-themed experience, attracting visitors throughout the year. With a peak in arrivals during spring and early autumn, it boasts a variety of shopping areas and centres, making it a perfect spot for retail therapy. Local highlights include vibrant squares, tourist precincts, and even themed parks, ensuring a dynamic atmosphere filled with excitement and discovery. Kabukicho is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Tokyo’s nightlife and urban culture.
- Shinjuku Golden Gai: Located merely a stone's throw from Shinjuku, Shinjuku Golden Gai is a charming enclave famous for its narrow alleys lined with tiny bars and eateries. It offers a delightful city-themed experience, especially popular during the peak tourist seasons in spring and autumn. Visitors can enjoy the unique blend of shopping areas and historic places that capture the essence of Tokyo's past. This neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking an authentic glimpse into local nightlife, with its unique character and vibrant atmosphere making it a must-visit destination.
Things to do near Shinjuku
Shopping
In Shinjuku, visit Takashimaya Times Square for a mix of fashion, cosmetics, and gourmet food. For a more traditional experience, explore the bustling streets of Shinjuku’s Golden Gai, where unique bars and souvenir shops abound, offering a glimpse into local culture.
Recreation
In Shinjuku, immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a serene escape featuring traditional Japanese landscapes. Alternatively, visit a local onsen for a rejuvenating hot spring experience, where you can unwind in natural mineral waters surrounded by soothing environments.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of the Arimino Course, a zipline ropes course located 25.7km from Shinjuku, where you can immerse yourself in adventure and outdoor vibes. Alternatively, enjoy scenic views on the Yokohama Air Cabin, a cable car gondola situated 27.4km away, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
For a unique experience, take the Mt. Takao Cable Car, a gondola ride located 40.2km from Shinjuku, offering splendid outdoor scenery and an exhilarating adventure for families. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes as you ascend to the mountain's peak.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku by visiting the Golden Gai area, where you can find tiny bars with unique themes. For a lively atmosphere, check out Omoide Yokocho, where you can savour delicious yakitori and enjoy the bustling street scene.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shinjuku
To save money on your trip to Shinjuku, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and September. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure better rates, particularly on Tuesdays, which are the least expensive nights. Use Expedia’s search tools to compare prices and find discounts, especially for last-minute deals. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package can also lead to significant savings. Don’t forget to explore free activities in the area to further stretch your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shinjuku are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Shinjuku about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shinjuku is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shinjuku is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. To uncover the most affordable rates and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by booking an Expedia package, which allows you to combine your hotel stay in Shinjuku with your flights and activities.
Find the best attractions in and around Shinjuku
Shinjuku is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a city-themed holiday. Popular attractions include shrines, urban parks, and art museums, providing a rich cultural experience for travellers. Whether you're exploring serene temples or enjoying the vibrant urban parks, Shinjuku offers a delightful blend of culture and family-friendly activities for a memorable visit.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A serene oasis amidst the urban hustle, this expansive garden blends traditional Japanese, English, and French landscapes. Ideal for leisurely strolls, it showcases seasonal blooms and tranquil ponds, offering a peaceful retreat for families and nature lovers alike.
- Shibuya Crossing: Known as one of the busiest pedestrian intersections globally, Shibuya Crossing is a symbol of Tokyo's vibrant energy. Experience the organised chaos as hundreds cross simultaneously, surrounded by neon lights and bustling shops, making it a thrilling spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Tokyo Tower: This iconic landmark, reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower, offers breathtaking views of Tokyo's skyline. Its observation decks provide a unique perspective of the city, making it a must-visit for those wishing to appreciate both modern architecture and urban vistas.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Shinjuku
Shinjuku, Tokyo offers convenient access to three major airports. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) is 17.7km away, with nearby hotels such as The Prince Park Tower Tokyo and Grand Hyatt Tokyo, both approximately 12.9km from the airport, offering shuttle services. Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) is 62.8km from Shinjuku, with options like Hotel Nikko Narita and ANA Crowne Plaza Narita, both just 1.6km away. Lastly, Ibaraki Airport (IBR) is located 83.7km from Shinjuku, with Mito Plaza Hotel and Hotel Route Inn Ishioka nearby. Each airport provides various transportation options to ensure a smooth journey to your accommodation.