Shinjuku Golden Gai

新宿ゴールデン街Tokyo

Food area

What makes this place special?

At a Glance

Shinjuku Golden Gai is a block of narrow alleys in Kabukichō, Shinjuku, Tokyo, packed with more than 200 tiny bars and eateries. Low wooden buildings stand shoulder to shoulder along six lanes, and many bars seat only around five customers. Some have a steep staircase leading to a second bar or a small flat upstairs.

The area grew out of postwar black markets and later became a meeting place for writers, film directors, actors and other artists. As the surrounding blocks were rebuilt, it remained one of the few places that preserve an older Tokyo townscape. The whole district lies in the parish of the neighbouring Hanazono Shrine, and many bars keep its talismans. The lanes are private roads, and photographing the streets without permission is not allowed.