Red Golden Gai: A Dive into Tokyo's Retro Nightlife
Explore Tokyo's hidden gem: Red Golden Gai, a nostalgic maze of tiny bars offering an intimate glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
Red Golden Gai offers a glimpse into Tokyo's past with its narrow alleys and tiny, character-filled bars. This Shinjuku district, untouched by modernization, provides an intimate drinking experience in a retro atmosphere.
A brief summary to Red. Golden Gai
- Kabukicho, 1 Chome−1−６ 花園5番街 ２F, Shinjuku City, 1 Chome Kabukicho, Tokyo, 160-0021, JP
- +813-6380-3990
- Visit website
- Monday 6 pm-5 am
- Tuesday 6 pm-5 am
- Wednesday 6 pm-5 am
- Thursday 6 pm-5 am
- Friday 6 pm-5 am
- Saturday 6 pm-5 am
- Sunday 6 pm-5 am
Local tips
- Most bars open around 9 PM, but the atmosphere gets livelier later in the night.
- Bring cash, as many bars do not accept credit cards.
- Look for signs in English to find foreigner-friendly establishments.
- Be aware that some bars may have a cover charge.
- Refrain from taking photos without permission, especially of people.
Getting There
-
Walking
From JR Shinjuku Station's east exit, walk north towards Yasukuni-dori. Turn right onto Yasukuni-dori and walk east until you see Mister Donut. A tree-lined pedestrian path behind Mister Donut leads to Golden Gai. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are involved.
-
Public Transport
Take the subway to Shinjuku-sanchome Station. From there, Golden Gai is a short walk away, adjacent to Hanazono Shrine. Subway fare is approximately ¥170-¥210.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Shinjuku. A short taxi ride from Shinjuku Station to Golden Gai will cost approximately ¥730-900. Note that traffic can affect the final fare.
Discover more about Red. Golden Gai
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SAKE Bar a tika
0.1 km
Discover authentic Japanese sake in the heart of Kabukicho's vibrant nightlife at SAKE Bar a tika.
CHUGOKU SHIKOKU SHOKUSAI
0.4 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Japan at Chugoku Shikoku Shokuzai, an izakaya in Shinjuku City offering traditional flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Subaru Building Shinjuku Eye
0.7 km
Experience the iconic Subaru Building Shinjuku Eye, a cultural landmark in Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku district, combining art, architecture, and urban life.
Shin-Okubo Korean Town
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and sounds of Seoul in the heart of Tokyo's Shin-Okubo, a bustling hub of Korean culture and cuisine.
Kaichū Inari Shrine
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Kaichū Inari Shrine in Shinjuku, Tokyo - a perfect blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.
5-1 Yochōmachi
0.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of 5-1 Yochōmachi in the vibrant heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Hotel Century Southern Tower
0.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and convenient access to Tokyo's best from this modern Shinjuku hotel.
Robert Indiana Sculpture: "LOVE"
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana in Shinjuku, a symbol of affection and a captivating highlight of Tokyo's bustling art scene.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
1.1 km
Discover the tranquility of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, an urban retreat in Tokyo featuring breathtaking landscapes and seasonal blooms in a serene setting.
Narukoten Shrine
1.1 km
Explore Narukoten Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine in Shinjuku, Tokyo, where tradition meets tranquility amidst the city's vibrant energy.
Shinjuku Sumitomo Building
1.1 km
Discover the iconic Shinjuku Sumitomo Building, a triangular skyscraper with a rich history and modern appeal in the heart of Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku.
Kyu-Goryo-Tei (Taiwan Pavilion)
1.1 km
Discover the historical elegance of Kyu-Goryo-Tei in Tokyo's serene gardens, where architecture meets cultural heritage.
Yotsuya Okido Mark
1.2 km
Explore Yotsuya Okido Mark, a historical landmark in Shinjuku City, where Tokyo's rich history and vibrant culture come to life for every traveler.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North Observatory
1.3 km
Discover the stunning skyline of Tokyo from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North Observatory, a free and breathtaking experience in the heart of the city.
Tokyo Night & Light
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting world of Tokyo Night & Light, where art and technology illuminate the vibrant heart of Japan's capital.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shinjuku Golden-Gai
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting nightlife of Shinjuku Golden-Gai, where cozy bars and unique eateries create an unforgettable Tokyo experience.
Ramen Nagi - Shinjuku Golden-gai Honkan
0.0 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Ramen Nagi in Shinjuku Golden-gai, where every bowl is a unique culinary experience.
Art Bar Shuten-Doji
0.1 km
Experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife at Art Bar Shuten-Doji in Kabukicho, where art, creative cocktails, and karaoke create an unforgettable night.
Zirco Tokyo
0.1 km
Experience the electrifying atmosphere of Zirco Tokyo, a live music venue in the heart of Kabukicho, where local talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Hanazono Shrine
0.1 km
Discover tranquility and cultural heritage at Hanazono Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine nestled in the heart of bustling Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Shinjuku City
0.1 km
Experience the lively streets, diverse cuisine, and cultural richness of Shinjuku City in the heart of Tokyo, Japan.
Itoku Inari Shrine
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Itoku Inari Shrine in Shinjuku, Tokyo, a peaceful retreat showcasing traditional Japanese culture and spiritual heritage.
Kabukicho Theater
0.2 km
Discover the magic of traditional and modern Japanese performing arts at Kabukicho Theater in the heart of Tokyo's vibrant nightlife.
1-chōme-6-12 Kabukichō
0.2 km
Experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: entertainment, dining, and iconic landmarks in the city that never sleeps.
Robot restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of technology and tradition at Shinjuku's iconic Robot Restaurant, a must-see entertainment spectacle in Tokyo.
Public Stand Kabukicho
0.2 km
Experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife at Public Stand Kabukicho: unlimited drinks, lively atmosphere, and unforgettable memories in Shinjuku.
Samurai Museum
0.2 km
Explore the fascinating world of samurai warriors at the Samurai Museum in Tokyo, where history, culture, and artistry converge.
Kabukichō Benzaiten
0.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Kabukichō Benzaiten, a tranquil shrine in Tokyo dedicated to the goddess of music and entertainment, amidst vibrant Kabukichō.
歌舞伎町さくら通り
0.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife and cultural experiences in Kabukicho, Tokyo's iconic entertainment district filled with excitement and intrigue.
1-chōme-14-5 Kabukichō
0.2 km
Experience the dazzling nightlife and entertainment of Kabukichō, Tokyo's vibrant and electric red-light district in Shinjuku.
Essential places to dine
Genki Taisho Wagyu 元気大将-Halal
0.1 km
Savor the finest halal wagyu beef at Genki Taisho Wagyu in Shinjuku - an unforgettable culinary experience awaits!
NINGEN RESTAURANT（HUMAN RESTAURANT)
0.2 km
Experience a fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine at Ningen Restaurant in Shinjuku - where culinary creativity meets tradition.
Alice in Fantasy Book
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting world of culinary creativity at Alice in Fantasy Book—where every dish tells a story!
Kakekomi Gyoza
0.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Kakekomi Gyoza in Shinjuku – where every bite tells a story.
Sungari Shinjuku 3 chome branch
0.2 km
Experience authentic Russian, Georgian, and Ukrainian cuisine at Sungari Shinjuku – a culinary journey in the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku district.
Nikutei Futago Shinjuku
0.3 km
Experience the best Yakiniku and Korean barbecue at Nikutei Futago Shinjuku - a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts in Tokyo.
Teppan Baby
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Japan at Teppan Baby in Shinjuku – where teppanyaki meets lively izakaya culture.
Nabezo Shinjuku Meiji Dori
0.3 km
Savor the taste of Japan with authentic hot pot dishes at Nabezo Shinjuku Meiji Dori - a must-visit culinary gem in Tokyo.
Nabezo Shinjuku Sanchome Store
0.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Nabezo Shinjuku Sanchome with exquisite hot pot dishes that promise a delightful dining experience.
Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Souhonten
0.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine at Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Souhonten - where every bite tells a story.
Oumi Genji
0.4 km
Experience authentic shabu shabu at Oumi Genji in Tokyo's Kabukicho - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
NEOShinjuku Atsushi
0.4 km
Discover the unique fusion of nightlife and creative cuisine at NEOShinjuku Atsushi - where cyberpunk meets culinary artistry in Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku.
Shinjuku Kappo NAKAJIMA
0.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors and artistry of Kaiseki cuisine at Shinjuku Kappo NAKAJIMA in Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku district.
Soushi Menya Musashi
0.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese ramen in the heart of Shinjuku at Soushi Menya Musashi—where tradition meets flavor.
Kakatojo
0.6 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Kakatojo, where Tempura meets Teppanyaki in the heart of Shinjuku.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sanrio Gift Gate
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting world of Sanrio at Sanrio Gift Gate in Shinjuku, Tokyo - a must-visit for kawaii culture enthusiasts.
Shinjuku SUBNADE
0.2 km
Discover Shinjuku SUBNADE, a vibrant shopping mall in Tokyo's Kabukicho, offering fashion, food, and fun in a lively urban atmosphere.
Disney Flagship Store Tokyo
0.3 km
Experience the enchantment of Disney at the flagship store in Tokyo, offering exclusive merchandise and magical memories for every visitor.
Isetan Shinjuku
0.3 km
Discover the luxurious shopping experience at Isetan Shinjuku, Tokyo's premier department store with gourmet dining and unique cultural offerings.
Ginzo
0.3 km
Explore Ginzo in Shinjuku for a unique thrift shopping experience featuring stylish bags, exquisite jewelry, and vintage treasures in Tokyo.
BicCamera Shinjuku east exit store
0.4 km
Explore BicCamera Shinjuku East Exit Store for a unique blend of electronics, Japanese culture, and diverse shopping in the heart of Tokyo.
THE TOKYO MATRIX Official Store
0.4 km
Explore THE TOKYO MATRIX Official Store in Kabukicho, Shinjuku for unique souvenirs and exclusive merchandise reflecting Tokyo's vibrant culture.
Flags
0.6 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Flags in Shinjuku, Tokyo, where fashion meets culture in a vibrant atmosphere.
TODAY'S SPECIAL Shinjuku
0.6 km
Explore unique gifts and home goods at TODAY'S SPECIAL Shinjuku, a delightful novelty store in the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku district.
AKOMEYA TOKYO NEWoMan SHINJUKU
0.6 km
Explore AKOMEYA TOKYO NEWoMan SHINJUKU, a gourmet grocery store and gift shop offering authentic Japanese products and culinary treasures.
Japan Gold Label
0.7 km
Find the perfect souvenir at Japan Gold Label, where exquisite Japanese craftsmanship meets modern elegance, right in the heart of Tokyo.
Meetz STORE 新宿髙島屋店
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Tokyo at Meetz STORE, a unique gift shop in Shinjuku offering a delightful selection of souvenirs and local crafts.
BOOKOFF Shinjuku Yasukunidori Store
0.7 km
Explore BOOKOFF Shinjuku Yasukunidori Store for unbeatable deals on used books, music, and collectibles in the heart of Tokyo.
Takashimaya
0.8 km
Discover Takashimaya in Tokyo, a luxurious department store offering fashion, gourmet delights, and unique souvenirs in a beautiful setting.
Bingoya
1.3 km
Explore Bingoya in Shinjuku for a unique selection of Japanese handicrafts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of Tokyo.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
KENZO'S BAR
0.0 km
Kenzo's Bar: Dive into Tokyo's vibrant nightlife at this izakaya-style bar in Kabukicho, offering a unique blend of drinks and atmosphere.
Hair Of the Dogs
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo at Hair Of the Dogs, a lively bar in Kabukicho offering a unique atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Bar Asyl
0.0 km
Discover the unique charm of Bar Asyl in Shinjuku, where homemade drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you in Tokyo's vibrant nightlife.
Deathmatch in Hell
0.0 km
Explore Tokyo's nightlife at Deathmatch in Hell, an intimate bar in Kabukicho offering a unique atmosphere and affordable drinks.
ARAKU
0.0 km
Discover the taste of Japan's finest whiskeys and sake at ARAKU, the ultimate bar experience in Tokyo's lively Kabukicho district.
Bar Lonely
0.0 km
Discover the intimate charm of Bar Lonely in Kabukicho, Tokyo's vibrant nightlife hub, offering exquisite cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Tokyo
0.1 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Tokyo at Bar Tokyo, where cocktails, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere await in the heart of Kabukicho.
bar moon walk Shinjuku Yasukunidori Branch
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in Tokyo's nightlife at Bar Moon Walk, offering a cozy izakaya atmosphere with a wide selection of drinks and traditional Japanese cuisine.
Kujira Entertainment
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo at Kujira Entertainment, where cocktails, entertainment, and culinary delights await.
Music Fashion Bar RUN
0.2 km
Discover the dynamic blend of music, fashion, and nightlife at Music Fashion Bar RUN in Tokyo's Kabukicho, a hotspot for memorable evenings.
Rock Bar Mother
0.2 km
Discover Rock Bar Mother, Tokyo's premier rock bar offering an electrifying atmosphere, live music, and an extensive drink selection in the heart of Kabukicho.
BAR PSY
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Tokyo's rock scene at BAR PSY, where great music and a cozy atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.
Bar Logue
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo at Bar Logue, a top-rated bar in Shinjuku known for its innovative cocktails and welcoming atmosphere.
Beer Pong Bar GROVE Shinjuku
0.3 km
Dive into the energetic nightlife of Shinjuku at Beer Pong Bar GROVE, where games meet great drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
BAR LIVET
0.3 km
Discover a hidden gem in Shinjuku where whiskey enthusiasts indulge in rare selections and enjoy an intimate atmosphere.
