Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s must-visit districts that shouldn’t be overlooked, as it offers incredibly easy access to various destinations via public transportation. As everyone knows, Shinjuku is famous for its shopping spots, restaurants, and popular accommodations—all conveniently located. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, make sure to include Shinjuku in your itinerary, especially if you love shopping or value the convenience of getting from your hotel to tourist attractions with ease. Today, Traveloka has updated a complete guide to Shinjuku’s attractions, along with the latest popular accommodations.

Known as a wealthy district, Kagurazaka is a historic area that was home to high-class samurai and aristocrats during the Edo period. In the 1980s, French influences transformed it into a charming neighborhood lined with stylish cafes. If you want authentic French cuisine, this is the place to be—earning it the nickname “Little Paris.” The area is also famous for its sloped streets and multi-level alleys. Don’t forget to explore the small side streets to discover hidden cute shops and the unique atmosphere only Kagurazaka offers.

When talking about Shinjuku, shopping comes to mind first! NEWoMan is a must-visit, featuring stylish local Japanese fashion brands and plenty of cute items for unlimited shopping. Don’t worry if you didn’t pack clothes—this place has you covered! And don’t miss the 3-Michelin-star bakery, LE PAIN de Joël Robuchon, famous for its croissants.

Opening Hours: 11:00 – 20:30

Shinjuku Gyoen is a large garden spanning Shinjuku and Shibuya. It’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying fresh air, with a variety of flowers to admire in summer and during autumn foliage. It’s also one of the best spots to see cherry blossoms, featuring 65 different sakura varieties in central Tokyo.

Opening Hours: 9:00 – 18:00 (Closed on Mondays)

Another free observation point in Tokyo, the observatories on the 45th floor offer views of major landmarks like Shinjuku Central Park, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Dome. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the background. The South Observatory also has a piano available for anyone to play for 5 minutes—perfect for music lovers!

Opening Hours:

Uniqlo’s flagship store offers much more than clothing. Here, you’ll find Uniqlo Flower, a floral section, and Uniqlo Coffee. The store also features collaborations with local Shinjuku brands and community labels.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 22:00

A historic department store operating for over 100 years, Isetan offers everything from fashion, shoes, watches, cosmetics, luggage, to perfumes. The basement has delicious sweets like YOKU MOKU—perfect for souvenirs. Tax-free shopping is available for foreign tourists on the 6th floor.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 (Eat Paradise, 7th floor: 11:00 – 22:00)

Kabukicho is the entertainment hub of Shinjuku, featuring restaurants, bars, and clubs. Most establishments operate 24 hours, making it a bustling area almost all day. Perfect for those who love vibrant nightlife.

A must-stop photo spot before shopping! You’ll see the iconic Godzilla climbing the Toho building—a true Shinjuku landmark.

A small shrine with Edo-period design, Hanazono Shrine offers tranquility in the middle of the bustling city. It’s believed to ward off evil and bring good luck in career, promotions, and relationships. Visit during Tori no Ichi Festival in November to see lanterns light up the shrine at night.

Tokyo’s largest spa and onsen! It has a variety of baths, including natural hot springs, electric baths, and high-concentration carbon dioxide baths. Tattoos are allowed with a cover sticker—rare in Tokyo! Thermae-Yu also offers massages, saunas, a lounge, and a fitness center on the top floor.

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Content creators, don’t miss this! During the romantic autumn foliage season (mid-November to early December), be sure to visit the 146 golden ginkgo trees lined up along a 300-meter path. Since this spectacular view only happens once a year, the area can get very crowded. For the best photos without the crowds, go early in the morning. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of street-side restaurants along Aoyama to grab a bite.

This museum has been renovated from an old school building into a space showcasing over 100,000 toys, most of which are made of wood—making them safe and excellent for children’s developmental learning. For adults and general visitors, the museum also offers workshops where you can make your own toys. This makes it a perfect spot for tourists of all ages. Opening Hours: 10:00 – 16:00 (Closed on Thursdays)

A must-visit for fans of teppan (griddle) dishes! The food is flavorful and rich, with tender meat, and the must-try dish is yakisoba. Cute little figurines stand by your plate cheering you on while you eat, so even if you’re dining alone, you won’t feel lonely. The lively atmosphere comes from the energetic staff and chefs who seem to be fueled by ten batteries each! Opening Hours: 17:00 – 05:00

This is a famous set-menu sashimi restaurant in Tokyo. The seafood ingredients are carefully selected to create exquisite dishes. The uni is especially sweet, and the rice porridge has a perfect umami flavor, enhanced by the restaurant’s signature fish broth. For the best experience, arrive before 11:30 a.m. to secure one of the first seats. Opening Hours: 11:00 – 21:00

A legendary curry house in Shinjuku, open for over 123 years. The aroma of spices is so inviting that you might just follow it straight to the shop! The retro-style interior adds to the charm, while the curry itself is unique, fragrant, and flavorful, with meat so tender it almost melts in your mouth. Vegetable curry is also available, beautifully presented and perfectly paired with the rich curry. For fewer crowds, visit right when the shop opens or after the lunch rush. Opening Hours: 11:00 – 22:00

Another Shinjuku legend, operating since the early days of Shinjuku Station. The shop offers premium fruits for sale and a dessert section with cakes and fruit parfaits, known for being refreshingly sweet without being overpowering. A perfect spot for a light, refreshing treat. Opening Hours: 11:00 – 20:00

Hotel Overview – 4-Star

Recommended for: Shoppers, nightlife lovers, families

Highlights:

Book Hotel Gracery Shinjuku through Traveloka.

Hotel Overview – 4-Star

Recommended for: Shoppers, families

Highlights:

Book Hotel Gracery Shinjuku through Traveloka.

Hotel Overview – 4-Star

Recommended for: Shoppers, families, work-from-anywhere travelers

Highlights:

Book Hotel Gracery Shinjuku through Traveloka.

You can fly directly from Bangkok to Tokyo, with a flight time of approximately 5–6 hours. Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and arrive at either Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). Several airlines operate routes to Tokyo, including Thai Airways, Thai Air Asia X, Japan Airlines, Bangkok Airways, and All Nippon Airways. Check flight prices and choose your preferred airline on Traveloka.

Shinjuku, located in the heart of Tokyo, has a variety of public transportation options. The most convenient, fast, and affordable way to get around is by train, as the railway network covers the entire country. Trains also connect to other popular destinations in Japan such as Kyoto, Hokkaido, and Fukuoka.