Tokyo Shinjuku Food Tour: Backstreets, 15 Dishes & Drinks

Summary

Shinjuku’s alleys at night, street food steam and laughter rising

You’ll taste your way through Shinjuku’s backstreets with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story—sampling 15 Japanese dishes, sipping drinks in tiny bars, and picking up bits of Tokyo etiquette along the way. Expect laughter, smoky flavors, and memories that linger well past midnight.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous about eating yakitori in a tiny alley, but there I was—shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers in Omoide Yokocho (they call it Memory Lane), watching the smoke curl up from the grills. Our guide, Yuka, waved us in with this easy grin like she’d done this a hundred times. She explained how to order without offending anyone (I still got it wrong once—she just laughed). The air smelled like grilled chicken and sweet soy sauce. My jacket picked up the scent for days after.

We wandered through Kabukicho next. It’s loud here—neon everywhere, people shouting softly into their phones or ducking into bars. Yuka used to work nearby; she pointed out a place where she once sang karaoke until sunrise. At one point we stopped under the Godzilla Head—yes, it’s just looming over you—and tried something called oden that tasted way better than it looked. I think I surprised myself by liking it so much. Someone in our group tried saying “kanpai” before our sake toast and totally butchered it; even the bartender cracked up.

Golden Gai was my favorite part. The alleys are barely wide enough for two people and every bar has its own story (and rules). We squeezed into one where an old jazz record played quietly behind us. Fifteen dishes sounds like a lot—and it is—but somehow you just keep going because every stop feels different. By the end my feet were tired but I didn’t want to leave yet. There’s something about Shinjuku at night that sticks with you long after you’ve left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Shinjuku food and culture

• Take photos of giant 3D cat
• Enjoy food and drinks at Omoide Yokocho
• Visit the iconic Godzilla Head
• Explore Kabukicho with local guide
• Pass by Shinjuku Golden Gai nightlife area
• Tour ends at Shinjuku Station

Top questions

How many dishes are included on the Shinjuku food tour?

The tour includes between 10-15 carefully selected Japanese dishes, depending on season and group size.

Are drinks included in this Tokyo Shinjuku food tour?

Yes, two drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) are included as part of the experience.

Is pickup included for this Shinjuku backstreet food tour?

No hotel pickup is provided; the tour starts near Shinjuku Station with easy public transport access.

Can children join this Tokyo food tour?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult. Alcohol will be substituted for soft drinks for those under 20.

Does this tour accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?

Dishes are prepared outside FujiTour's kitchen so dietary accommodations cannot be guaranteed; substitutions may not always be possible.

Where does the Shinjuku food & culture tour end?

The tour ends in front of Shinjuku Station after exploring Golden Gai and other highlights.

Is this Tokyo food tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No, some locations are not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers due to narrow alleys and steps.

What’s included

Your evening includes all 10-15 Japanese dishes (varies by season), two drinks of your choice (alcoholic or soft), photos taken during the tour, plus stories and explanations from a local English-speaking guide about Japanese eating customs and culture before finishing near Shinjuku Station.