Shinjuku is one of 23 wards operating as separate cities within Tokyo prefecture. It has an eclectic composition including historic geisha houses, a prestigious university area, up-scale residential neighborhoods, a large gay community, high expat population, and numerous small restaurants and bars.
Shinjuku is home to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building. This building has two observation decks at 663 feet (202 meters) with free admission and is open to the public from mid-morning to late night. There is also a visitor information center on the second floor.
This is the area of Tokyo with the highest concentration of skyscrapers. Among these, the eye-catching Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower houses a fashion academy and two other schools. The 50-story building is distinctive in the busy skyline for its unusual oblong shape and crisscross-patterned exterior.
Shinjuku also has Tokyo’s busiest rail station with 2 million passengers daily and one of the major stops for long-distance buses.
Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the best parks in Tokyo to see cherry blossoms. With over 1,000 trees blooming at varying times, the season extends from mid-March into April. Visit this 144-acre (58-hectare) park for a peaceful afternoon amid the pink blossoms in front of Shinjuku’s skyscrapers.
While a hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) picnic might require someone staking out an area to place your blanket early in the day, you can easily have an impromptu lunch at less crowded times of the year. Pick up prepared foods from Takashimaya department store, just south of Shinjuku station. The park is a 10-minute walk from the Shinjuku Station and us open from mid-morning to late afternoon (except Mondays). There is a small admission fee.
Shinjuku is located in southwest Tokyo. Oedo subway line stops at Tochomae station in the government building. Shunjuku station is a hub for multiple rail and subway lines.
Shinjuku
Popular places to visit
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
A stroll through this peaceful, colorful garden is the highlight of a trip to Tokyo at any time of year. It is especially popular for the cherry blossoms of spring.
Waseda University
Explore the campus of Waseda University during your stay in Tokyo. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.
National Stadium
Catch an event at National Stadium during your trip to Tokyo. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art scene in this vibrant area.
Meiji Jingu Stadium
Catch an event at Meiji Jingu Stadium during your trip to Tokyo. Discover the acclaimed theater scene and temples in this vibrant area.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government
After visiting Tokyo Metropolitan Government, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Tokyo. Visit the notable monuments and shops in this vibrant area.
Shinjuku Central Park
Explore the great outdoors at Shinjuku Central Park, a lovely green space in Tokyo. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Things to do
Tokyo: Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall Tour
From Tokyo: Kamakura and Enoshima 1-Day Bus Tour
Tokyo Cyberpunk Street Photo Tour
Shinjuku Hotel Deals
Reviewed on May 15, 2024
Reviewed on May 16, 2024
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Reviewed on May 15, 2024
Reviewed on May 15, 2024
Reviewed on May 13, 2024
Other neighborhoods around Shinjuku
Harajuku
Harajuku is a destination travelers like for its shopping, and you might hop aboard the metro at Meiji-jingumae 'Harajuku' Station or Omote-sando Station to explore sights like Meiji Jingu Shrine.
Shibuya
Shibuya is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Shibuya Crossing and Meiji Jingu Shrine. See more of Tokyo by jumping on the metro at Shibuya Station or Meiji-jingumae 'Harajuku' Station.
Akasaka
Spend some time visiting places like Tokyo Midtown while getting to know Akasaka, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Nogizaka Station or Akasaka Station to see more of the area.
Roppongi
Consider a visit to National Art Center, Tokyo and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Roppongi. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Roppongi Station or Roppongi-itchome Station.
Chiyoda
Enjoy the popular shops in Chiyoda. Nippon Budokan is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Kudanshita Station or Takebashi Station to see more of Tokyo.
Ikebukuro
You might appreciate the shopping and restaurants in Ikebukuro, and if you're interested in seeing more of the area, Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and The Sunshine 60 Observatory are just a few notable stops.
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Other Hotels near Shinjuku, Tokyo
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- Toshima Hotels
- Yoyogi Hotels
- Bunkyo Hotels
- Sendagaya Hotels
- Nakano Hotels
- Jingumae Hotels
- Okubo Hotels
- Takadanobaba Hotels
- Iidabashi Hotels
- Hyakunincho Hotels
- Korakuen Hotels
- Yotsuya Hotels
- Kagurazaka Hotels
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