Visit historic drinking alleys of Golden Gai
Tokyo, Japan • INR 440 - INR 880 approx.• 
Popular
PopularRecommended to Self-explore
Best months to visit
Apr, Jul, Aug
10°C – 20°C, mild and pleasant, with increased rainfall during cherry blossom season, high crowds, peak season
10°C – 20°C, mild and pleasant, with increased rainfall during cherry blossom season, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Golden Gai consists of narrow alleys with small bars, many of which have steps at the entrance, making wheelchair access challenging. Walking is necessary, and seating is available inside the bars, though space is limited.
Golden Gai consists of narrow alleys with small bars, many of which have steps at the entrance, making wheelchair access challenging. Walking is necessary, and seating is available inside the bars, though space is limited.
Value for money
Medium
Cover charges and prices, but unique experience is worth it.
Cover charges and prices, but unique experience is worth it.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Intimate Setting
Couples loved the cozy bars, perfect for private conversations. So romantic!
Unique Experience
Visitors found Golden Gai a truly unique, unforgettable experience. A must-do!
Great Atmosphere
Travelers raved about the retro atmosphere. Such a step back in time!
Cover Charges
Guests felt the cover charges added up quickly. Drinks were a bit pricey.
Limited Space
Couples found the tiny bars cramped. Not ideal for claustrophobes.
Tourist Trap
Some felt a few bars were tourist traps with inflated prices. Be wary.
How to book
You can book on the spot
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Hours of operation
Monday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Tuesday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Wednesday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Thursday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Friday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Saturday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Sunday
08:00 PM - 05:00 AM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
Explore Golden Gai bars like a pro with insider tips from a seasoned traveler.
A traveler unveils his thrilling escapade in the enchanting Golden Gai.
Experience Golden Gai through the eyes of tourists in this captivating video.
Discover the highlights of Shinjuku's vibrant Golden Gai!
Your Ultimate Guide to Golden Gai's Vibrant Nightlife!
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
MEDIUM
7-13°C
Cold and dry with occasional chilly winds; little rain.
Cold and dry with occasional chilly winds; little rain.
Open
No major restrictions; some venues may close early on holidays.
No major restrictions; some venues may close early on holidays.
Not recommended
Cooler weather, but Golden Gai remains accessible and welcoming; some bars may have special holiday events.
Cooler weather, but Golden Gai remains accessible and welcoming; some bars may have special holiday events.
January
LOW
2-10°C
Cold and mostly dry. Occasional light rain. Bundle up for late evenings.
Cold and mostly dry. Occasional light rain. Bundle up for late evenings.
Open
Some bars may have shorter hours or close for New Year holidays, but most remain open.
Some bars may have shorter hours or close for New Year holidays, but most remain open.
Recommended
A quiet time to experience Golden Gai’s historic bars with minimal crowds and a more local atmosphere.
A quiet time to experience Golden Gai’s historic bars with minimal crowds and a more local atmosphere.
February
LOW
2-11°C
Cold, with a slight increase in rainfall. Evenings are brisk but the atmosphere remains cozy indoors.
Cold, with a slight increase in rainfall. Evenings are brisk but the atmosphere remains cozy indoors.
Open
No major restrictions; bars are open regular hours.
No major restrictions; bars are open regular hours.
Recommended
Ideal for those seeking a more intimate, authentic Golden Gai experience without tourist crowds.
Ideal for those seeking a more intimate, authentic Golden Gai experience without tourist crowds.
March
MEDIUM
5-15°C
Cool, with spring approaching. Occasional rain, but generally pleasant for bar hopping.
Cool, with spring approaching. Occasional rain, but generally pleasant for bar hopping.
Open
No notable restrictions; all venues open.
No notable restrictions; all venues open.
Recommended
A lively time to visit, with a balance of local and international visitors and comfortable weather.
A lively time to visit, with a balance of local and international visitors and comfortable weather.
How to get there
Metro
Recommended
The Tokyo Metro's Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Marunouchi, Fukutoshin, and Toei Shinjuku Lines) is a 3-5 minute walk from Golden Gai.
Train
Recommended
Shinjuku Station (JR, multiple lines) is a 5-10 minute walk from Golden Gai via the East Exit.
Walking
Recommended
Walking is the primary mode of exploration within the pedestrian-only alleys of Golden Gai.
Bus
Local buses have stops near Shinjuku Golden Gai. The Keio Bus from Busta Shinjuku to Shinjuku Gochome bus stop is a short walk away.
Taxi
Taxis can drop you off on surrounding streets like Yasukuni Dori, as the alleys are pedestrian-only.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required
Age
Ages 20+