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The vibrant streets of Tokyo’s Kabukicho district are adorned with an array of dazzling neon signs that have become synonymous with the city’s bustling nightlife. Plus, with its late-night and lively atmosphere – every curious traveller in Tokyo is bound to find themselves walking through the crazy maze that is Kabukicho.

Take a step into one of Japan’s red light districts and learn more about the charm of Kabukicho, where an old empty corner in Shinjuku became one of Tokyo’s hottest nightlife spots.

Guide to Kabukicho Map

The History of Kabukicho’s Glow

Kabukicho is a neighbourhood in Shinjuku, Tokyo, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment. As the sun sets, Tokyo’s streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of Japanese neon signs that illuminate the city. Particularly the neon lights in Kabukicho cast a vibrant glow that lures locals and tourists alike into a world of excitement and curiosity. 

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Post-War Recovery

The Kabukicho entertainment district that we know today has an intriguing history that stems from Japan’s post-war era starting from 1945 onwards. After World War II hit, which left Kabukicho heavily bombed, the government decided to breathe new life into the area, transforming it into an entertainment hub that would shape Tokyo’s late-night culture.

Initially, the government aimed to build a Kabuki theatre in the district as the main entertainment space, hence the name “Kabukicho.” However, the construction of the theatre didn’t push through due to financial difficulties, but the name stuck and thus began the rise of the area as the post-war-trailblazing entertainment district!

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By the 1980s in Japan, Kabukicho was firmly established as Tokyo’s entertainment hub with a variety of bars, restaurants, and other entertainment halls. Known as Japan’s red light district, Kabukicho was also a vast space of adult entertainment such as host clubs, love hotels, and pachinko parlours. 

Nowadays, tourists flock to Kabukicho for its local bars and karaoke lounges. Some are known to even stay there at a Capsule Hotel. With it’s iconic red Kabuki-chō Ichiban-gai (歌舞伎町一番街) gate, along Yasukuni-Dōri; Kabukicho invites visitors to explore its mix of izakayas, host clubs, and cinemas, and retro game arcades.

Why Visit Kabukicho?

Certainly, the district’s atmosphere makes it a top tourist destination, where travellers can lose themselves in the excitement of buzzing streets, indulge in true Japanese cuisine, and immerse themselves in the unique blend of modern and traditional entertainment that defines Kabukicho.

Additionally, Kabukicho is filled with iconic landmarks to visit, such as the aforementioned Kabukicho Gate and TOHO Cinema’s Godzilla Head. This area has a lot in store for you, especially if you’re a night owl.

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If you’re a fan of karaoke, Kabukicho offers plenty of opportunities to belt out your favourite tunes at its lively karaoke spots. 

Certainly, food lovers will also find themselves in paradise. Kabukicho is packed with foodie gems, offering a variety of genuine Japanese dishes. So, be sure to visit an izakaya or Japanese pub, where you can savour local favourites like yakitori and sushi in an atmosphere full of character.

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If you’re craving a late-night bite, Kabukicho won’t let you down—its bustling streets are filled with 24-hour ramen spots, street food vendors, and local joints ready to satisfy those midnight cravings.

Indeed, this busy Tokyo district is alive with energy, so make sure to check out our recommended spots below.

Our Favorite Hangout Spots in Kabukicho

Golden Gai

Golden Gai is a yokocho, also known as a Japanese alleyway, located in the secret streets of Kabukicho. This iconic alley is lined with many izakaya pubs and restaurants where many businessmen come over to relax after a long day’s work.

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Many eateries in Golden Gai offer a variety of specialty snacks and drinks, so make sure you visit the place with a hungry and adventurous stomach! To make the most out of your Golden Gai experience, try joining a pub crawl and see how diverse the bars are around the area.

Location: 1 Chome-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan

Samurai Restaurant

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The Samurai Restaurant has emerged as a top spot in Shinjuku ever since its predecessor, the Kabukicho Robot Restaurant, closed its doors in 2020. Despite its name, the Samurai Restaurant is not actually a restaurant, but a two hour performance featuring samurai and ghosts dancing, plus geishas drumming on taikos.

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Sounds crazy, right? Well, that’s what makes this establishment a popular tourist attraction. Expect a series of performances full of LED lights, crazy dancing, live singers, and samurai antics. Take note though, the Samurai Restaurant is for strictly over 18s!

Location: 1 Chome-7-7 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan

Kabukicho Tower

Kabukicho houses Japan’s largest hotel and entertainment complex, also known as the Kabukicho Tower. What to do in this multi-story entertainment hall is simple; have fun! Inside this skyscraper includes a cinema, live concert venue, a gaming arcade bar, a yokocho-inspired food hall, and more.

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Opened in 2023, Kabukicho Tower is a modern addition to this nightlife district, showcasing Tokyo’s dynamic identity of intertwining tradition and modernity. Additionally, the tower includes open spaces where visitors can take Instagram-worthy photos and enjoy the views of Tokyo. 

Location: 1 Chome-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan

One Coin Bar Champion

For those who want to sing their hearts in Shinjuku, here’s the best karaoke spot in Kabukicho! For only 500 yen, One Coin Bar Champion serves you one alcoholic drink with no seat-charge, offering brands such as Kirin, Heineken, Scotch, and Bourbon.

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Now, the fun part – karaoke! For only 100 yen, take centre stage and perform your favourite songs, singing along with everyone at the bar. The atmosphere of One Coin Bar Champion invites you to make new friends, so enjoy the drinks and party all night!

Location: 1 Chome-1-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan

ARTNIA Square Enix

What is Japan without their iconic video games? Square Enix is a Japanese video game company known for popular titles such as Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts and happens to have an official cafe based on these games!

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ARTNIA Square Enix is the only place in the world that sells official Square Enix goods and offers an exclusive menu. Some of their most popular dishes include their Slime Pancakes, Cappuccino Latte, and Red Materia Cocktail – all inspired by Square Enix games.

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Besides purchasing official Square Enix merchandise from their goods section, you can also take a step into their “luxury area,” a gallery within the establishment that exhibits different accessories, figures, and apparel based on the games. So, Square Enix fans, what are you waiting for? 

Location: 6 Chome-27-30 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan

Beer Pong Bar GROVE Shinjuku

Another nightlife spot in Kabukicho that tourists can spend a few drinks on is Beer Pong Bar GROVE! They’re not your typical bar… they’re referred to as an “amusement bar,” meaning they have more than just drinks for you. Beer pong, darts, karaoke – you name it!

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The seating capacity of Beer Pong Bar GROVE is around 30 customers, so you’re definitely going to make new friends. Challenge them with all sorts of games in the bar and come out as a champion! Sing a few victory songs with unlimited karaoke afterwards. 

Location: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−23−15, Suzuya Bldg, 6階

Shinjuku Batting Centre

If you’re looking to try something new in Kabukicho, the Shinjuku Batting Centre may pique your interest. It’s not a bar, nor is it a restaurant, but a sports facility where you can bring out the baseball player in you with their batting ranges.

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For only 300 yen, you can experience indoor baseball batting with varying ball speeds and digital pitchers. All types of players are welcome, from newbies to experienced players! Plus, there are arcade game machines around the facility as well for extra fun.

Location: 2 Chome-21-13 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan

Concluding Tokyo’s Kabukicho

Without a doubt, Kabukicho’s bright neon streets are more than just eye-catching—they represent the energy and excitement of Tokyo’s nightlife. Beyond the neon signs that draw in visitors, this area is packed with unique experiences and endless entertainment.

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What started as a plan to rebuild after World War II has turned into one of Tokyo’s go-to spots for nightlife. Kabukicho mixes old traditions with modern attractions, creating a lively and exciting place full of fun and chaos.

Be sure to explore our top tourist spots to make the most of your time in Kabukicho—Tokyo’s glowing centre of nightlife and adventure!

First time in Kabukicho? Here are some Frequently Asked Questions that can serve as a guide while you walk around the neon streets of Kabukicho.

FAQs

Q1: How do I get to Kabukicho?

To get to the Kabukicho district, it’s important to find yourself in Tokyo first. Since Kabukicho is located in the Shinjuku area, you can easily access the district from the JR Shinjuku East exit via Marunouchi Line. Another option is the Higashi-Shinjuku Station via Fukutoshin Line.  

From the JR Shinjuku East exit, look for the iconic Kabukicho Gate entrance clad in bright neon red – that’s the entrance to Kabukicho!

To help you navigate the district better, here’s a Kabukicho map that can help you out:

Q2: Can visitors explore Kabukicho at any time of the day?

Yes, Kabukicho operates 24/7, allowing visitors to experience its lively atmosphere at any time. However, the district truly comes alive at night when the neon signs light up the streets. Therefore, it’s recommended to drop by early evening!

Q3: Is Kabukicho safe for tourist?

Although there have been rumours about Kabukicho for being “sketchy” and “shady,” it is still a safe tourist spot for you to explore. Nonetheless, there are still a few things to avoid around this red light district; including street hawkers, overly expensive host clubs, and rowdy crowds.

Q4: How much should I spend in Kabukicho?

The beauty about Kabukicho is that it offers dining options for those on a budget. In fact, the simplest dishes in Kabukicho tend to be the most delicious! 

Street food around Kabukicho can cost around at least 300 yen. Dishes like yakitori or ramen are around 500 yen to 1,500 yen per meal. For bars and drinks, expect to spend at least 500 yen for one beer, with special drinks costing up to 1,000 yen each.

Q5: What else can I do in Kabukicho?

As a district that never sleeps, Kabukicho will tempt you to stay up all night discovering its nooks and crannies as an entertainment hub. Not only should you try out their bars and restaurants, but explore other establishments such as;

In Kabukicho, you get to see what the side of bold and playful Tokyo is like. With its endless bars, delicious street food, and fun entertainment shows – you’re in for a wild treat in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district.