Discover the Charm of Omoide Yokocho
Experience the nostalgia and flavors of Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku, Tokyo, where vibrant street food meets rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Omoide Yokocho
- 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, 1 Chome Nishishinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, JP
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Omoide Yokocho, also known as 'Memory Lane' or 'Piss Alley', is a captivating destination nestled in the heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo. This narrow alleyway, lined with tiny, traditional izakayas and food stalls, takes visitors on a journey back to the post-war era of Japan. As you wander through its vibrant scene, the enticing aromas of grilled skewers, ramen, and other local delicacies fill the air, creating an irresistible invitation to explore the culinary delights on offer. The lively atmosphere, enhanced by the chatter of locals and the sizzling sounds of food being prepared, makes it an unmissable experience for any tourist looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture. Each eatery in Omoide Yokocho has its own unique charm and specialty, offering everything from flavorful yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to hearty bowls of soba noodles. The intimate setting, with seating often limited to just a few stools at the counter, encourages a communal experience where you can share stories and connect with fellow diners. This close-knit environment not only enhances the enjoyment of your meal but also allows you to witness the true spirit of Japanese hospitality. Visiting Omoide Yokocho is not just about indulging in delicious food; it's also about soaking in the history and nostalgia that permeates this alley. Many of the establishments have been family-run for generations, preserving traditional recipes and methods that are part of Tokyo's culinary heritage. As night falls, the warm glow of lanterns and the bustling crowd create a magical ambiance, making it the perfect spot for a memorable evening out in the city. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Omoide Yokocho offers a unique slice of Tokyo life you won't want to miss.
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long waits at popular eateries.
- Try the local specialty dishes at various stalls for a more diverse experience.
- Bring cash, as many small eateries do not accept credit cards.
- Don't hesitate to engage with the chefs; they're often happy to share stories about their food.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from central Kai, set your GPS to '1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023'. The journey will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. Take the Chuo Expressway towards Tokyo and follow signs for Shinjuku. Once you arrive in Shinjuku, you can park at one of the nearby parking facilities, such as Shinjuku Park Tower or Times Shinjuku 7 Chome, which typically charge around ¥300-¥600 per hour.
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Train
To reach Omoide Yokocho using public transportation, head to the nearest train station in Kai, which is Kai City Station. Take the JR Chuo Line towards Tokyo. After about an hour, you will arrive at Shinjuku Station. Upon exiting the station, follow signs for the West Exit. Omoide Yokocho is approximately a 10-minute walk from the West Exit. Exit the station, turn right, and walk along the main road until you reach the alleyway of Omoide Yokocho, known for its numerous izakayas and street food vendors. The train fare is around ¥1,500 one way.
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Bus
You can also take a bus from Kai to Shinjuku. Check the local bus schedules for the best route, but generally, you will take a bus from Kai to Kofu Station, then transfer to an express bus heading to Shinjuku. The total travel time may take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The bus fare from Kai to Kofu is around ¥600, and from Kofu to Shinjuku, it’s about ¥1,200.
Attractions Nearby to Omoide Yokocho
- Kitakata Ramen BAN NAI Shinjuku-Omoide yokocho
- Black pillar of Kyu-Ome-kaido
- Seibu Shinjuku Sta. PePe Front Square
- 新宿アルタ Keystudio
- JR Shinjuku East Exit Station Square
- 歌舞伎町Sparkle
- Maidcafe Maidreamin Shinjuku East-exit Store
- GODZILLA ROAD
- Subaru Building Shinjuku Eye
- Ichiran Shinjuku Kabuki-cho
- 歌舞伎町さくら通り
- Shinjuku Station West Exit Event Space
- TOKYO MYSTERY CIRCUS
- Kabukichō Benzaiten
- Gigo Shinjuku Kabukicho
Landmarks nearby to Omoide Yokocho
- CHUGOKU SHIKOKU SHOKUSAI
- SAKE Bar a tika
- Ninja Trick House In Tokyo
- Shinjuku Sumitomo Building
- Hotel Century Southern Tower
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North Observatory
- Tokyo Night & Light
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building South Observatory
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
- Kaichū Inari Shrine
- Shin-Okubo Korean Town
- Shinjuku Chuo Park
- Shinjuku Juniso Kumano-jinja Shrine
- Kyu-Goryo-Tei (Taiwan Pavilion)
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden