If you’re searching for the best food and bar spots in Shinjuku, Tokyo, there’s no better guide than the locals! Shinjuku Golden Gai, a lively district famous for its small alleyway bars and quirky shops, is a must-visit if you want to experience where the locals go. Tucked between Hanazono Shrine and the remnants of the old streetcar line along Four Seasons Road, Golden Gai features five narrow alleys filled with over 300 bars and shops, each offering a unique, intimate experience.
Introduction to Shinjuku Golden Gai
Shinjuku Golden Gai is situated on the former site of the Blue Line black market, which emerged after World War II. Following the 1958 Anti-Prostitution Law, the area transformed into a haven for writers, editors, filmmakers, actors, and other cultural figures starting in the 1970s. This rich history helped shape Golden Gai into one of the key origins of Tokyo’s vibrant cultural and underground art scene.
NOTE: Many of the bars and shops in Golden Gai charge an entrance fee, typically ranging from 500 to 1000 yen. First-time visitors should keep this in mind when planning their visit!
Top Reccomended Bars
★ 呑家 しの (Shino) - Entrance Fee: 0 yen
Established for 40 years, Shino offers homemade snacks crafted by the owner (500 yen per dish). It’s a popular spot where locals and visitors alike come to chat with the owner and learn about the history of Golden Gai!
★ Pavo - Entrance Fee: 500 yen
At Pavo, you can savor hearty French and Italian cuisine in the heart of Golden Gai. Menu options include appetizers for 300 yen, main dishes like meat and fish for 500 yen, and pasta and risotto for 800 yen. Be sure to try their featured dish: Joe’s Fried Pork Cutlet.
★ Orange王子 (Orange Prince) - Entrance Fee: 500 yen
Orange Prince is known for its charming staff, many of whom are professional actors, earning it the reputation of a “bar with handsome men.” The interior, featuring orange and white tones, creates a cozy café-like ambiance, making it an inviting spot for solo visitors.
Featured dish: Cilantro Curry
★ Hungry Humphrey - Entrance Fee: 300 yen
Since opening 40 years ago, Hungry Humphrey has preserved its original North African colonial-style architecture. With 33 seats, it’s one of the larger bars in Golden Gai, offering plenty of space for guests to relax.
Featured dish: Meatball Curry Stew
★ 吉田商店 (Yoshida Shoten) - Entrance Fee: 500 yen
The final recommendation is Yoshida Shoten, a cozy bar filled with nostalgic toys and unique merchandise. Its intimate size encourages guests to chat and connect, sharing the charm of the city. It’s also a favorite hangout for many voice actors and entertainers—if you’re lucky, you might even run into one!
Shinjuku Golden Gai Information
- Shinjuku Golden Gai
- Location: From Sumifuku "Home n' Lounge" apartments, it's just a 12-minute walk.
Related Articles
- Must-Visit Bars Loved by Locals in Japan: Shinjuku Bar Crawl
- BAM BI COFFEE: Shinjuku’s Trendiest Korean Café with Instagram-Worthy Desserts
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks in Japan
- Yakiniku Ishigakijima Misakigyu (Akasaka)
- A Luxury Culinary Experience with a View at Ristorante & Bar E’volta, Ginza
- 5 Trendy Tokyo Bars to Drink At
