DRINKING | GOLDEN GAI

Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

A small area near Kabukicho, Shinjuku Golden Gai is known for its spirited night life and unique architecture. While the surrounding areas of modern Tokyo are filled with skyscrapers and neon lights, Golden Gai cuts out a small corner of Tokyo to retain it’s post war charm. It’s a bit similar to Omoide Yokocho, except less yakitori and more bars and drinking.

Golden Gai consists of six alley ways made up with small individual bars. Each building can have a couple bars within them itself. Wandering around the area is an experience in itself and choosing a bar shouldn’t be too hard..there’s over 200 bars! Most of the bars in the area open up at 8 or 9 pm so make sure you don’t head over too early or there’ll be nothing opened. Some bars only welcome regulars as some tourists only have one drink, loiter and leave, taking spaces from regular customers. So, choose welcoming bars (some will have signs).

Know before you go:

• There are often cover charges when entering bars

• Watch out for bars not welcoming foreigners

• Area opens up at around 8pm

Photo Credit: Timeout Tokyo

How to get there

It’s about an 8 minute walk from Shinjuku Station and right next to the Kabukicho district.