City · Japan

Shinjuku

Shinjuku, Tōkyō, Japan

Shinjuku: Tokyo's Thriving Heart of Chaos and Calm Shinjuku, a pulsating district in the heart of Tokyo, offers a captivating blend of futuristic…

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Shinjuku, Tōkyō, Japan Open in Google Maps
When to go

Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.

GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsMar – May, Oct – Nov
Worth avoidingJun, Sep
October · cloudHigh 21°C Low 15°C
Good

Shinjuku, located in Tokyo, Japan, experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (80s to low 90s Fahrenheit). Rainfall is common, especially during the rainy season in June and early July. Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures ranging from the low teens to mid-20s Celsius (50s to 70s Fahrenheit) and less humidity, making it a pleasant time to visit. Winters (December to February) are mild but can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 2 to 10 degrees Celsius (mid-30s to 50s Fahrenheit). Snow is rare but not unheard of. Spring (March to May) is mild and often considered the best time to visit, with cherry blossoms blooming and temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50s to 70s Fahrenheit).

All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
cold
10°2°
Feb
cold
10°2°
Mar
cloud
13°5°
Apr
clear
18°10°
May
sun
23°15°
Jun
rain
25°19°
Jul
hot
29°23°
Aug
hot
31°24°
Sep
rain
27°21°
Oct
cloud
21°15°
Nov
clear
16°9°
Dec
cold
12°4°
Currency
¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen
Population
360,000
Languages
Japanese mainly
Also known as
Yotsuya, 新宿, Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Kabukichō

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on Shinjuku.

What people love

Shinjuku, located in Tokyo, Japan, is a vibrant and bustling district with many attractions and activities for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Shinjuku include:

  1. Shopping: Shinjuku is home to a variety of shopping options, from high-end department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya to budget-friendly options like Don Quijote and Uniqlo. The area around Shinjuku Station is also filled with smaller shops, boutiques, and unique stores where you can find a wide range of products.

  2. Entertainment: Shinjuku is known for its entertainment options, including theaters, cinemas, and arcades. Kabukicho, located in Shinjuku, is Tokyo's famous red-light district and offers a lively nightlife scene with bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Shinjuku is home to several cultural attractions, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which offers panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. The area also has several museums, including the Samurai Museum and the Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) alley, which offers a glimpse into Tokyo's past.

  4. Dining: Shinjuku is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries and street food stalls, you can find a variety of delicious dishes in Shinjuku, including traditional Japanese cuisine, international fare, and fusion dishes.

  5. Convenient Transportation: Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest transportation hubs in Tokyo, making it easy to access other parts of the city and beyond. The station is served by multiple train and subway lines, as well as bus services, making it a convenient base for exploring Tokyo and the surrounding areas.

Overall, traveling to Shinjuku offers a dynamic and diverse experience with something for everyone, whether you're interested in shopping, entertainment, culture, dining, or simply exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Shinjuku in Tokyo, Japan could include:

  1. Crowds and congestion: Shinjuku is known for being a bustling district with a high population density. This can lead to crowded streets, packed public transport, and busy shopping areas, which may be overwhelming for some travelers.

  2. High cost of living: Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities in the world, and Shinjuku is no exception. Accommodation, dining, and entertainment options in Shinjuku can be pricey compared to other parts of Japan.

  3. Language barrier: While many locals in Shinjuku may speak some English, overall language barriers can still be a challenge for travelers who do not speak Japanese. This can make navigating the area, ordering food, and seeking help more difficult.

  4. Limited space: Shinjuku is a densely populated area, and space is at a premium. This can be felt in small hotel rooms, crowded restaurants, and narrow streets, which may feel cramped to some visitors.

  5. Noise and lights: Shinjuku is known for its vibrant nightlife and neon-lit streets. While this can be exciting for some travelers, others may find the constant noise and bright lights overwhelming, especially if staying in the area.

Overall, while Shinjuku offers a unique and exciting travel experience, it may not be the best fit for travelers who prefer quieter, more relaxed environments.

Shinjuku is a special ward in Tokyo, Japan, known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping districts, and as a major administrative and commercial center. Its history is rich and multifaceted, encompassing periods of transformation from the Edo period to its current status as one of Tokyo's most bustling areas.

Early History

  • Edo Period (1603–1868): Shinjuku’s development began during the Edo period when it became a post town on the Kōshū Kaidō, one of the major roads connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with the rest of Japan. The name "Shinjuku" means "New Inn" (新宿), signifying its origins as a rest stop for travelers.

Meiji Era and Early 20th Century

  • Meiji Restoration (1868): With the Meiji Restoration, Tokyo became the capital, leading to rapid urban development. Shinjuku evolved from a minor post town into a more significant urban area.
  • 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake: The earthquake caused widespread destruction but also led to significant rebuilding efforts in Tokyo, including Shinjuku. This period marked the beginning of Shinjuku’s transformation into a bustling urban center.

Post-War Period

  • World War II: Shinjuku was heavily bombed during the war, leading to extensive destruction. However, post-war reconstruction efforts saw the area rapidly expand and modernize.
  • Economic Boom (1950s-1980s): During Japan's post-war economic miracle, Shinjuku developed into a major business and entertainment district. Skyscrapers like the Keio Plaza Hotel (opened in 1971) marked the skyline, and the area became a symbol of modern Japanese urban life.

Modern Era

  • 1991: The Tokyo Metropolitan Government moved its headquarters to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, designed by architect Kenzo Tange. This iconic building became a significant landmark.
  • 21st Century: Shinjuku remains a major economic hub, with its bustling streets, shopping centers like Isetan and Takashimaya, and entertainment districts such as Kabukichō, known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.

Significant Events and Figures

  • Historical Figures: While not directly associated with specific historical figures, Shinjuku has been a place where many cultural and political figures have frequented due to its prominence.
  • Events: Shinjuku has been the site of numerous political and cultural events, including protests and festivals, reflecting its role as a central area in Tokyo.

Important Landmarks

  • Shinjuku Station: One of the busiest railway stations in the world, serving as a major transportation hub with millions of passengers daily.
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Offers panoramic views of Tokyo and is a symbol of Tokyo’s administrative power.
  • Kabukichō: Known as Tokyo's entertainment and red-light district, offering a wide range of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A large park offering a peaceful escape from the urban environment with beautifully landscaped gardens.

Shinjuku’s history is a testament to Tokyo’s resilience and ability to adapt and grow, reflecting broader trends in Japanese urban development, culture, and economics.