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Omoide Yokocho: Tokyo's Culinary Back Alley

Discover the nostalgia and flavors of Tokyo at Omoide Yokocho, an iconic alleyway filled with izakayas and street food stalls.

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Omoide Yokocho, a vibrant alleyway in Shinjuku, offers tourists an authentic taste of Tokyo's street food culture, featuring a variety of izakayas and food stalls that entice with their aroma and warm ambiance.

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

Local tips

  • Visit during the evening for the best atmosphere, as the alley is beautifully lit and bustling with locals.
  • Try to sample from multiple stalls; each offers unique dishes that showcase different aspects of Japanese cuisine.
  • Be open to trying new things; the menu items may not always be in English, but the staff are usually friendly and helpful.
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Getting There

  • Train

    From any location in Tokyo, make your way to Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest stations in the world. Depending on your starting point, you can take various train lines such as the JR Yamanote Line, Chuo Line, or the Toei Oedo Line. Once you arrive at Shinjuku Station, follow the signs to the 'West Exit' (西口) which will take you to the bustling streets outside.

  • Walking

    After exiting from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station, you will find yourself on a busy street. Look for the large skyscrapers and head towards the right side, following the signs for 'Nishishinjuku' (西新宿). Walk straight for about 5-10 minutes until you reach the intersection with a traffic signal. You should see a street with warm lights and small restaurants ahead of you on your left side. This is where Omoide Yokocho is located, specifically at 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku.

  • Landmarks

    As you walk towards Omoide Yokocho, keep an eye out for the famous 'Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden' to your right and the 'Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building' to your left. These can serve as reference points to ensure you're heading in the right direction. Omoide Yokocho is just a few steps away from the entrance of the alley, which is lined with various izakayas and food stalls.

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Discover more about Omoide Yokocho

Omoide Yokocho, also known as 'Memory Lane,' is a charming, narrow alleyway located in the bustling Shinjuku district of Tokyo. This nostalgic attraction is reminiscent of post-war Japan, lined with tiny, intimate izakayas (Japanese pubs) and food stalls that serve mouthwatering dishes ranging from yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to steaming bowls of ramen. As you stroll through this vibrant alley, the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air create an inviting atmosphere that is hard to resist. The warm glow of lanterns and the friendly chatter of patrons add to the lively ambiance, making it a perfect spot for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Tokyo's culinary culture. Each eatery has its unique charm, and many are family-owned, adding a personal touch to your dining experience. Visiting Omoide Yokocho is not just about eating; it's about experiencing a piece of Tokyo's history. The alley is a fantastic place to enjoy a late-night meal or an after-work drink, with many establishments open until the early hours. While the prices are generally affordable, the quality of food is exceptional, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers. Don't forget to explore the various options available, as each stall offers its specialty, allowing you to sample multiple dishes in one visit. For a truly authentic experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and interact with the friendly local chefs and patrons. Omoide Yokocho is not just a destination; it’s a celebration of community, flavor, and tradition that encapsulates the essence of Tokyo's vibrant street food scene.

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