Shinjuku Ni-chōme

Shinjuku Ni-chōme is a compact district within Shinjuku that holds more than 300 bars, clubs, and restaurants spread across five city blocks near Naka-Dori, between the BYGS building and a small park to the east. Most venues sit inside multi-story buildings, with many entrances barely visible from the street and staircases leading to upper floors.

After World War II ended in 1945, the area began to develop as a meeting point for gay men during the American occupation, following the decline of earlier red-light activities. The number of venues grew steadily over the following decades, making the district a recognized center of the LGBTQ community in Japan.

The name Ni-chōme means "second district" and reflects Tokyo's traditional block-numbering system that dates back to the Edo period. Visitors often notice how the narrow alleyways create a maze-like layout that encourages discovery and repeated visits to different venues.

The nearest train stations are Shinjuku-sanchōme and Shinjuku Gyoenmae, both just a few minutes' walk away, while the main Shinjuku Station sits about 10 minutes on foot. Most venues open in the late evening and stay active until the early morning hours, with the atmosphere becoming most lively after midnight.

Many of the smallest bars in the area fit only four to six guests at a time, creating an intimate setting that encourages conversation between regulars and newcomers. Some of these tiny venues have been run by the same owners for decades and have built loyal followings that return regularly.