Shinjuku Golden Gai

Six narrow alleyways with more than 200 compact bars and eateries form a dense network of establishments within Shinjuku's entertainment zone.

The district emerged in 1949 and survived demolition attempts in the 1980s when organized crime targeted numerous Tokyo buildings for new developments.

Each bar maintains individual themes ranging from jazz and punk rock to flamenco, creating spaces where artists, musicians, and performers gather regularly.

Most establishments open after 9:00 PM and contain limited seating, with some bars requiring cover charges and maintaining restrictions on photography.

The two-story buildings preserve the original post-war Tokyo architecture, with drinking spaces below and additional rooms or residences above.

Location: Kabukichō

Inception: 1949

Website: http://golden-gai.tokyo/

Address: 東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1丁目 160-0021 160-0021

Website: http://golden-gai.tokyo

GPS coordinates: 35.69390,139.70500

Latest update: June 7, 2025 17:43