Tokyo: Shinjuku Bar Hopping with All-You-Can-Drink & Dinner

Imagine wandering through the bustling streets of Shinjuku, Tokyo’s nightlife hub, without the hassle of planning where to go. For around $112, you get a guided tour that takes you into some of the city’s lesser-known bars and eateries, where locals unwind after work. You’ll visit three local izakaya, enjoy all-you-can-drink, and sample delicious street foods—all with a friendly guide to navigate the crowded, colorful backstreets.

What makes this experience stand out? We love how the tour offers a genuine taste of Tokyo’s nightlife scene, away from the tourist traps. The inclusion of reservations at popular bars is a real plus, ensuring a smooth experience in tight, often crowded spots. Plus, the interactions with locals, playing traditional games and understanding Japanese drinking culture, make it more than just a bar crawl; it’s an immersion.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour isn’t heavily focused on vegetarian options. Choices are limited, so if you’re a plant-based eater, you might want to prepare for some constraints. This tour is best suited for adventurous food lovers, first-time visitors eager to explore local nightlife, or solo travelers looking to meet others and enjoy authentic Tokyo.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit hidden backstreets and local izakaya bars, not touristy spots.
• All-Inclusive: Drinks and food included, making it easy to relax and enjoy without extra costs.
• Cultural Insights: Interact with locals, play traditional games, and learn about Japanese drinking customs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides help navigate crowded areas and reservations.
• Diverse Venues: Experience a variety of izakaya, from cozy, tiny bars to lively food alleys.
• Inclusive for First-Timers: Perfect for those new to Tokyo nightlife or wanting a guided, hassle-free night out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Tokyo Nightlife: The Experience Unpacked

The Itinerary: What’s in Store?

Upon meeting your guide in front of the Black pillar in Shinjuku, just a short walk from JR Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, you’ll find yourself stepping into an energy-filled scene. The tour kicks off in one of Shinjuku’s famed food alleys, where traditional izakaya (Japanese pubs) line narrow streets. Here, small bars grill fresh chicken, seafood, and vegetables, filling the air with mouth-watering aromas.

Your first stop includes two drinks from a curated selection, giving you a taste of local beers or sake. This initial bar often offers a full dinner menu as well, which you can select from the tour’s original options—a thoughtful touch ensuring you’re well-fed for the night.

After the first stop, the group moves on to two more bars in the famous Kabukicho and Golden Gai districts. These areas are packed with tiny, intimate bars where locals gather after work. Many of these bars are reserved for regulars and tend to be crowded, so the fact that your guide makes reservations ahead of time is a real advantage. It ensures you avoid long waits and get to experience authentic, well-loved spots.

What Makes Each Stop Unique?

The first bar is usually in a lively alley filled with street-side food stalls and small eateries. It’s the perfect place to try Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), Fried Tofu, or Gyoza, alongside a refreshing local beer. The atmosphere is vibrant, busy, and very local.

Moving to Kabukicho, you’ll encounter more lively bars that get packed with office workers unwinding after a long day. These bars are tiny and often bustling, brimming with energy and camaraderie. Despite their small size, your guide’s reservations mean you get a good seat, allowing you to soak in the scene and chat with locals.

In Golden Gai, the charm is in the quirky, themed bars. Each one has its own character—some decorated with vintage posters, others with minimalist decor—and many are over 50 years old. This area offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s hidden bar culture, far from the tourist-heavy streets.

What About Food and Drinks?

This tour is designed to be full of good eats and drinks. You’ll enjoy all-you-can-drink at the second bar, which is quite generous and often includes local sake, beer, or shochu. The first bar grants two drinks, and the last bar offers just one, but with a good variety to choose from. The food is plentiful, and the menus are curated to give you a well-rounded experience—ranging from meat and seafood to vegetarian options, though the latter are limited.

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Authenticity and Interaction

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. From playing Japanese games to explaining cultural nuances, guides like Masa and Yuki help break down language barriers and make the night more engaging. One reviewer mentioned that their guide even stayed after the official end to recommend karaoke spots, making it clear that these guides genuinely want visitors to have memorable experiences.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour typically has a small group size, making it intimate and easy to mingle. Travelers have described it as feeling like a night out with friends, with guides fostering a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Many reviewers noted that they met interesting people from around the world, and even after the tour, many continued their night exploring on their own.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts about three hours, a manageable length that balances enough time to see multiple spots without feeling rushed.
• The meeting point is easily accessible, just a short walk from JR Shinjuku Station.
• Since all food and drinks are included, you don’t need to worry about bringing cash or ordering extra—just come ready to enjoy.
• It’s recommended for anyone over 20 years old and not suitable for vegetarians with limited options.
• Punctuality is key—arriving on time ensures you don’t miss out or disrupt the group.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-timers to Tokyo or those eager to explore local nightlife beyond the tourist zones. If you enjoy meeting new people, trying authentic food, and learning about cultural customs in an informal setting, this tour fits the bill. Solo travelers, couples, or small groups will find it a fantastic way to connect and get insider tips from guides with true local knowledge.

If you’re someone who values good value for money, given the included drinks and food, and appreciates guided experiences that save you from the hassle of navigating crowded areas alone, this tour will earn your thumbs up. Just bear in mind the limited vegetarian options if that’s a concern.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Experience?

This Shinjuku bar-hopping night tour offers a fun, authentic, and well-organized way to enjoy Tokyo’s legendary nightlife. With friendly guides steering you through the bustling alleys and tiny bars, you’ll experience a side of Tokyo that many visitors never see—local, lively, and full of flavor.

The all-inclusive setup means no extra fuss—just show up and enjoy delicious street foods and unlimited drinks in the company of fellow travelers and welcoming locals. Whether you want to learn about Japanese drinking customs, sample amazing food, or simply have a memorable night out, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Perfect for newcomers to Tokyo or seasoned travelers wanting a guided, hassle-free night, this experience promises a balanced blend of culture, fun, and flavor. It’s a surefire way to jump-start your Tokyo adventure with stories and memories that’ll last long after the last sip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Choices are limited, and vegetarian options are available but not extensive. If you prefer plant-based foods, you might find fewer options, but there will still be some dishes to enjoy.

How many bars will we visit?
You’ll visit three local izakaya, each in different lively areas of Shinjuku and Kabukicho. The tour includes reservations to ensure smooth entry.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, the tour covers all drinks and food at each stop, including all-you-can-drink at the second bar. You can come empty-handed and just enjoy.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts about three hours, usually from the meeting point to the end, which is the same location.

Do I need to bring cash?
No, everything is included in the price. You’ll only need your ID to verify age.

Is this a good option for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting new friends and feeling like they were out with a group of friends.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
It’s about 7-8 minutes walk from JR Shinjuku station’s West Exit, and a guide will be holding an orange sign saying “Magical Trip”.

Can I join if I arrive late?
Punctuality is important. You might not be allowed to join if you’re late, and refunds or rescheduling aren’t available for latecomers.

Is this tour appropriate for those over 20?
Yes, the tour is strictly for guests aged 20 and over due to alcohol consumption.

In sum, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Tokyo through the eyes of locals, enjoy delicious food, and make some memorable connections—all in a safe, guided setting. Whether you’re after a fun night out or an authentic cultural experience, this bar crawl in Shinjuku is sure to deliver.

You can check availability for your dates here: