Shinjuku in February 2026: Setsubun Festivals, Valentine's Chocolate Events, Illuminations & Things to Do
Since moving to a neighborhood adjacent to Shinjuku in 2024, I've been visiting Shinjuku and Shin-okubo almost daily to explore its appeal and discover spots I can recommend to tourists.
I updated this article in January 2026 to incorporate my findings from this research, along with the latest information for 2026.
Another reason for updating the article is the growing interest in tours that allow visitors to safely and deeply experience Shinjuku's nightlife. As these tours gain popularity, Magical Trip's tour, which ranked #1 among all tours on Tripadvisor, has been receiving numerous applications.
If you want to enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife, I recommend the "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku," which ranked #1 on Tripadvisor. Our guides who know Shinjuku inside and out will take you bar hopping while avoiding dangerous areas, allowing you to fully enjoy Shinjuku at night.
I also recommend the "Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku," where you can enjoy premium wagyu beef barbecue and exceptional sushi. You'll learn from food-savvy tour guides about the best ways to grill your meat and proper sushi etiquette while enjoying exquisite Japanese cuisine.
I hope you can safely and thoroughly enjoy Shinjuku's nightlife with Magical Trip's tours!
Introduction
February in Tokyo marks the heart of winter, with consistently low temperatures. Snow occasionally falls, making thick coats and down jackets essential. As darkness falls early, the city's illuminations light up sooner, creating a glamorous atmosphere.
While Tokyo has many attractions, Shinjuku stands out as a famous commercial district lined with department stores and restaurants. It has become a hub for international tourists as a base for exploring Tokyo.
In February 2026, Shinjuku hosts both traditional winter festivals unique to Japan and pop culture events. This article introduces the highlights, basic information, schedules, and access details for February events in Shinjuku.
2026 Year-round Event Schedule in Shinjuku↓
・Shinjuku: List of Events & Festivals for 2026
sena kanda
Traditional Events in Shinjuku for February 2026
Setsubun
Setsubun is a unique Japanese traditional event held annually on February 2nd. Families throw beans outside their homes to ward off evil spirits, praying for good health throughout the year. This tradition began with the practice of throwing beans at evil demons believed to be inside houses.
The beans used in Setsubun are roasted, and there's a belief that eating the number of beans corresponding to your age will help prevent illness.
Major Japanese shrines host Setsubun festivals where candies and rice cakes are thrown from the shrine grounds. Let's explore one of Shinjuku's shrines that hosts this festival.
Shinjuku Shimoochia Hikawa Shrine
Source: Official website
The Hikawa Shrine in Shinjuku Shimoochia holds its annual Setsubun festival on February 3rd. Known as the Tsuina ceremony, it features famous ritualistic performances in the shrine's main hall.
After ceremonial dances and offerings to the deities, demons chase after fortune maidens wearing Okame masks. Festival participants then throw beans at the demons to drive them away, following the traditional Setsubun ceremony.
Every year, the shrine distributes lucky fortune beans (fukumame) to participants. Many visitors attend to receive these beans, and children receive candy, making it an enjoyable family event.
As the number of fortune beans is limited, early arrival is recommended.
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Date: February 3rd, 2026
Access: 5-minute walk from Shimoochia Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.shinjyuku-hikawa.jp/
Bishamon-ten Zenkoku-ji Temple
Source: Ichigaya Keizai Shimbun
Located in Kagurazaka, Bishamon-ten Zenkoku-ji Temple hosts its annual Setsubun Bean-Throwing Festival on February 3rd, attracting large crowds. The temple sits at the heart of Kagurazaka, an area famous for preserving its traditional geisha district atmosphere. It enshrines Bishamon-ten, the Indian god of fortune and treasure.
While Zenkoku-ji holds various events throughout the year, the Setsubun Festival is particularly famous, drawing many visitors annually. During the festival, geishas from Kagurazaka perform traditional dances as offerings, and there are folk performances featuring lion dancers wearing lion-head masks. During the bean-throwing ceremony, crowds gather in front of the main hall where large quantities of bean bags are thrown.
Visitors can take home the bean bags they catch as free souvenirs. The dedication ceremony begins at 3:00 PM, followed by bean throwing at 3:30 PM. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot in front of the main hall.
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Date: February 3, 2026
Access: 7-minute walk from JR Iidabashi Station West Exit, 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Iidabashi Station Exit B3
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kagurazaka-bishamonten.com/
Hanazono Shrine
Source: Tokyo Album
Located in Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Hanazono Shrine hosts a major Setsubun Festival event in February 2026 that draws large crowds. The shrine has been Shinjuku's guardian shrine since the Edo period and is famous as a power spot for matchmaking and good fortune.
While Hanazono Shrine hosts many events throughout the year, including the Grand Festival in May and Tori-no-ichi in November, the Setsubun Festival is particularly lively. The main event, the Oni Mondo (Demon Dialogue), is especially famous, where participants throw beans to drive away two demons attempting to climb the main hall.
Participants receive red "fukubukuro" (lucky bags) containing products donated by local businesses and shops. These lucky bags are traditionally considered auspicious, so arrive early to obtain one for good fortune.
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Date: February 3, 2026
Access: Direct access from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, Toei Shinjuku Line "Shinjuku-sanchome Station" Exit E2
Admission: Free
Website: http://hanazono-jinja.or.jp/
Ana Hachiman Shrine - Distribution of Ichiyoraifuku Amulets
Source: WASEDA UNIVERSITY
Ana Hachiman Shrine, located in Nishi-Waseda, Shinjuku ward, is a shrine with nearly 900 years of history. Formerly known as Takada Hachiman Shrine, it is renowned as a power spot for business prosperity, career success, and good fortune. The shrine is particularly famous for its Ichiyoraifuku amulets.
These amulets should be placed in an elevated position facing the direction of the god of fortune at midnight during the winter solstice, New Year's Eve, and Setsubun. This practice is believed to grant wishes, attracting many visitors seeking Ichiyoraifuku amulets every January.
Due to its proximity to Waseda University, many students visit the shrine in January to pray for success in their entrance examinations. The shrine grounds feature beautiful vermillion torii gates and lovely gardens, making it a shrine rich in attractions.
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Date: January 2026
Access: 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Waseda Station Exit 3B
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.anahachimanguu.jp/
Winter is the prime season for Japanese sake, when it's at its most delicious. Freshly pressed sake has an exceptionally rich aroma, and if you're a sake enthusiast, you'll definitely regret missing this opportunity.
Even in my neighborhood of Shibuya, there are bar-hopping tours where you can enjoy sake. Come experience the best of Japanese sake and cuisine with a local guide who knows Tokyo's nightlife inside and out.
・Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
・Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza
Hanazono Shrine Founding Festival
Source: Hanazono Ujiko Seinenkai
The Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku holds its annual Founding Festival on February 11th, which is Japan's National Foundation Day. This national holiday commemorates the day when Emperor Kanmu, the first emperor, ascended to the throne, marking the founding of Japan.
This special February 2026 event at the shrine features a solemn ceremony at the main hall, followed by a festive mochi-pounding demonstration. Mochi-pounding is a traditional practice where rice cakes are made by pounding rice in a mortar with a wooden mallet, typically performed during New Year celebrations.
The mochi-pounding event is conducted by the local youth association, and the freshly made mochi is distributed free to visitors. As Hanazono Shrine is known as one of Shinjuku's premier power spots, receiving mochi here might bring you good fortune.
Since crowds are expected, arriving early is recommended if you'd like to receive mochi.
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Date: February 11, 2026
Access: Directly connected to Shinjuku 3-chome Station (Exit E2) on Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line
Admission: Free
Website: http://hanazono-jinja.or.jp/
Tsukimioka Hachimangu Shrine Hatsuuma Festival
Source: Google Maps
Tsukimioka Hachimangu Shrine, located in Ochiai, Shinjuku, is beloved by local residents. The shrine hosts the annual Hatsuuma Festival in February, celebrating the Shofuku Inari Shrine within its grounds, drawing many visitors.
This festival is held on the first Sunday following the Day of the Horse in the second month of the lunar calendar. In 2026, it will be held on February 8th. The Day of the Horse commemorates when the agricultural deity was said to have descended at Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
The festival features mochi-pounding accompanied by the Kamiochiai Mochi-tsuki Song, which is designated as an intangible cultural property of Shinjuku Ward.
Outside festival days, the shrine maintains a peaceful atmosphere, with a kindergarten on its grounds filling the air with children's cheerful voices. Being close to the nearest station, it's perfect for a casual visit during a walk.
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Date: Sunday, February 1, 2026
Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Ochiai Station on the Subway Tozai Line
Admission: Free
Traditional Events Held at Meiji Jingu in February 2026, Easily Accessible from Shinjuku
Meiji Jingu is one of Japan's most prestigious shrines, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Founded in 1920, the shrine grounds are surrounded by an expansive forest of approximately 70 hectares, offering a serene space enveloped in rich nature despite being located in the heart of the city. Every year during the New Year, millions of visitors come to pay their respects.
From Shinjuku, access is excellent, taking only about 5 minutes to Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line. In February, important festivals that allow you to experience Japan's spiritual culture are held, so this Shinjuku Event February 2026 guide encourages you to visit.
Kinen-sai (Prayer for Harvest Festival)
Source:Instagram
Kinen-sai is an ancient Shinto ritual held every year on February 17th, where prayers are offered to the gods for an abundant harvest of the five grains (bountiful crops) for the year.
With a history of over 1,000 years, it was once one of the most important agricultural rituals held at the Imperial Court. In Japanese Shinto, rice cultivation holds deep spiritual significance, and ceremonies praying for a good harvest have been considered essential for the nation's prosperity.
During this ceremony at Meiji Jingu, Shinto priests dressed in traditional attire conduct the ritual, offering sacred food, sake, and Norito (words of prayer to the gods). Although the ceremony is brief, it is a precious opportunity to experience Japan's spiritual culture.
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Date: February 17, 2026 (Tuesday)
Access: 1-minute walk from Meiji-jingumae Station on the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and Fukutoshin Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/
Tencho-sai (Emperor's Birthday Celebration)
Source:Instagram
Tencho-sai is a special festival celebrating the Emperor's Birthday on February 23rd. The term "Tencho" carries the meaning of wishing for the Emperor's reign to continue forever and celebrating His Majesty's longevity.
Since Meiji Jingu is a shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who laid the foundation of modern Japan, Tencho-sai holds special significance here.
During Tencho-sai, formal ceremonies are conducted by Shinto priests from early morning, offering prayers for the current Emperor's health and longevity as well as the prosperity of the Imperial family. The ceremony sometimes features performances of Gagaku, traditional court music that has been played in Japanese imperial courts for over a thousand years, allowing visitors to experience Japan's traditional culture.
February 23rd is a national holiday in Japan, so the shrine grounds are bustling with many worshippers. Visiting provides a precious opportunity to learn about Japan's unique Imperial culture.
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Date: February 23, 2026 (Monday, National Holiday)
Access: 1-minute walk from Meiji-jingumae Station on the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and Fukutoshin Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/
Valentine's Day Related Events to Enjoy in Shinjuku in February 2026
Salon du Chocolat 2026
Source:Official website
Salon du Chocolat, the world's largest chocolate festival originating from Paris, will be held at Isetan Shinjuku, a famous department store in Shinjuku.
In 2026, a record-breaking 153 brands from 24 countries will participate. The theme is "CODE & MODE," featuring content that reveals the secrets behind chocolate's deliciousness and each chocolatier's craftsmanship and dedication.
Highlights include Bean-to-Bar chocolates made consistently from cacao beans, as well as event-exclusive collaboration boxes. The event is structured in three parts, with different brands appearing during each period.
I visit every year myself, and there are so many chocolates that can only be purchased at this event that I always end up buying too much.
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Dates: PART 1: January 15-20, PART 2: January 26-29, PART 3: January 31-February 4 and February 7-15
Access: 1-minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.mistore.jp/shopping/feature/foods_f3/salon_du_chocolat_f
Amour du Chocolat 2026
Source:PR TIMES
Amour du Chocolat, the Valentine's event at Takashimaya, a famous department store in Shinjuku, will be held at Shinjuku Takashimaya.
Approximately 100 famous brands will exhibit across two floors. The main venue on the 11th floor features creations from world-renowned chocolatiers such as Pierre Hermé Paris, Jacques Genin, and La Maison du Chocolat.
Limited-edition items are not to be missed. Due to the recent global decline in cacao production, the event features "non-cacao" alternative chocolates crafted by world-famous brands and top pastry chefs without using cacao.
This Shinjuku Event February 2026 offers a chance to enjoy chocolates unique to our times.
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Dates: January 22 (Thursday) - February 14 (Saturday), 2026
Access: 2-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.takashimaya.co.jp/shinjuku/amour/
Chocolate Market 2026
Source:Official website
The Chocolate Market at Keio Department Store Shinjuku features approximately 120 brands, with 38 brands making their first appearance at Keio Department Store Shinjuku. The theme for 2026 is "Freedom."
In addition to classic chocolates, a diverse array of sweets is available. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift for someone special or a treat for yourself, you'll find an extensive lineup to choose from.
A limited-time pop-up shop featuring Peko-chan, the beloved character from Fujiya, a long-established Japanese confectionery company, will also be held simultaneously, offering many exclusive goods for sale.
Since Fujiya produces chocolates featuring Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty, related merchandise is also available.
During the Valentine's season, I personally visit several department stores to purchase exclusive items from each location. There are so many chocolates you can only enjoy during this time, so I highly recommend visiting various stores.
This is one of the must-see Shinjuku events in February 2026 for chocolate lovers.
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Date: January 23 (Fri) – February 15 (Sun), 2026
Access: 1-minute walk from Keio Line "Shinjuku Station," JR "Shinjuku Station," Toei Shinjuku Line, Oedo Line "Shinjuku Station," and Odakyu Line "Shinjuku Station"
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.keionet.com/info/shinjuku/event/valentine_2026.html
Don't Miss the "Shibuya Chocolate Quest" in Neighboring Shibuya!
Source:Official website
Just a short train ride from Shinjuku, "Shibuya Chocolate Quest" is being held in Shibuya. This adventure-inspiring event allows you to enjoy chocolates from over 70 brands while exploring three different venues.
From established chocolatiers to innovative new brands, the event features a wide range of brands with a diverse lineup that is truly captivating.
In addition to chocolates, there's also an abundant selection of baked goods such as cookies, allowing you to enjoy a variety of sweets.
I also recommend enjoying the streets of Shibuya as you travel between venues.
Shibuya Tokyu Food Show
Located on 1F and B1 of Shibuya Mark City, Shibuya Tokyu Food Show is a trend-filled area where pop and casual chocolates gather.
The venue features brands that showcase individuality and playfulness, including collaborations with popular characters. Beyond chocolates, the Shibuya-exclusive printed macarons from LADURÉE are also popular.
You'll find chocolates with visuals so stunning that you'll want to share them on social media.
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Date: February 1 (Sun) – February 14 (Sat), 2026
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyu-dept.co.jp/shibuya_foodshow/?srsltid=AfmBOoqtk9oOEiraX7n6sI4jrkKijofQNAKTUZ6YY03mxNZpGIjHMuvK
Toyoko Norengai
Located on B2 and B3 of Shibuya Hikarie ShinQs, Toyoko Norengai becomes the main venue during the Chocolate Quest period, featuring gorgeous chocolates with a special touch.
At Pierre Marcolini, flavors using Japanese citrus fruits are available. I recommend the limited-edition box that combines these with classic flavors.
There are also chocolates featuring flavors made with Japanese strawberries, so why not enjoy Japanese-inspired tastes through chocolate?
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Date: February 1 (Sun) – February 14 (Sat), 2026
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyu-dept.co.jp/shinqs/index.html
Tokyu Food Show Edge
Located on 1F and B2 of Shibuya Scramble Square, Tokyu Food Show Edge is a floor gathering cutting-edge sweets under the concept of "Sweets Pavilion."
The appeal lies in its trend-setting lineup that will have people asking, "Where did you find that?" I also recommend choosing chocolates with sophisticated designs based on their cute appearance.
My recommendation is the delicately designed bonbon chocolates from Yumiko SAIMURA. The package design is also adorable.
Another attractive point is the excellent selection of health-conscious brands, including guilt-free options.
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Date: February 1 (Sun) – February 14 (Sat), 2026
Access: Directly connected to Shibuya Station
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyu-dept.co.jp/scsq/foodshow_edge/?srsltid=AfmBOorhBdd4X6cEdA0VpDBSxWXxW47jbI8KtHgDLSBKMF0vWJ02eNiK
Special February Experiences in Shinjuku
Shinjuku Minami-llumi 2025–2026
"Shinjuku Minami-llumi," which transforms the south exit area of Shinjuku Station into a world of light, is being held until February 15, 2026. This is a spectacular Shinjuku event in February 2026 that illumination fans won't want to miss.
The theme for 2025-2026 is "Light, Color. Heart, Dance. ~Colorful & Heartful~." You can enjoy the interplay of modern architecture and light while exploring six different venues.
At the starting point, a welcome gate featuring the Suica Penguin, the character of JR East's IC card "Suica," greets visitors. The cute penguin character is absolutely adorable.
My personal recommendation is the second-floor terrace deck at Takashimaya Times Square. You can enjoy the unique sight of trains passing beneath the golden illuminated lights.
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Date: November 12 (Wed), 2025 – February 15 (Sun), 2026
Access: JR Shinjuku Station South Exit
Admission: Free
Website: https://minamillumi2025.com/
Shinjuku Park Tower Winter Illumination 2026
Source: Official website
Shinjuku Park Tower, with its distinctive triangular roof, is a landmark office building in West Shinjuku. The building houses not only offices but also the luxurious Park Hyatt Tokyo hotel and various shops and restaurants, making it busy throughout the year.
During winter, an illumination event takes place around the fountain plaza. Approximately 60,000 lights decorate the trees around the fountain plaza, creating a breathtaking display against the clear winter sky.
At night, light particles reflect in the fountain pool, creating a magical atmosphere. The recommended viewing spot is the "Confession Stairs" connecting the fountain plaza to the basement level.
Water flows quietly on both sides of the stairs, while the lights blend with the winter air to create a romantic atmosphere. If you're looking to escape the city's bustle for a quiet evening, this is the perfect spot to visit.
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Date: November 11, 2025 - February 15, 2026
Access: Approximately 12-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station South Exit
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.shinjukuparktower.com/
Exquisite Food and Dessert Events at Shinjuku's Premier Hotels
In February, Shinjuku's premier hotels host special food and dessert events. From chocolates perfect for the Valentine's season to menus featuring seasonal strawberries, you can enjoy a luxurious time.
Meat Afternoon Tea with Strawberry Sweets
Source:PR TIMES
Metropolitan Grill on the 2nd floor of Hilton Tokyo offers the "Meat Afternoon Tea with Strawberry Sweets Buffet," a unique twist on traditional afternoon tea.
The main feature is meat dishes grilled using cherry blossom wood, which symbolizes spring in Japan.
Appetizers are served in a picnic box and include five playful dishes such as smoked salmon sandwiched in "Monaka," a crispy Japanese confection made with rice flour, and yellowtail tartlets with fermented strawberries. The presentation is also adorable.
After enjoying your meal, you can indulge in an all-you-can-eat buffet of 10 kinds of strawberry sweets in the "Sweets Room," available only during this season.
This afternoon tea is also recommended for those who don't have a sweet tooth.
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Date: December 27 (Sat), 2025 – Early May 2026 (tentative)
Access: 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station
Admission: Weekdays 6,600 yen / Weekends and holidays 7,100 yen
Website: https://tokyo.hiltonjapan.co.jp/restaurants/lp/metropolitangrill-afternoontea-strawberry
Chocolat and Strawberry Fair
Source:PR TIMES
Shinjuku Prince Hotel is hosting the "Chocolat and Strawberry Fair," with two restaurants within the hotel offering different menus.
At "The Station Café Bar," pizzas that can be enjoyed as meals rather than sweets are served, including "Strawberry & Burrata Pizza" and "Bitter Chocolate & Nuts Pizza."
While the menu names may sound like desserts, they're crafted with ingredients like prosciutto and bitter cacao sauce to pair perfectly with wine and cocktails.
At "Buffet Dining Prince Marche," you can enjoy a luxurious buffet featuring approximately 40 menu items using chocolate and strawberry.
Many items with unexpected combinations are scheduled to appear, such as pasta made with cacao. What I'm particularly looking forward to is the live cooking of chocolate omelets prepared by chefs right before your eyes.
Dinner also includes a carving service for roast beef.
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Date: February 1 (Sun) – April 30 (Thu), 2026
Access: Directly connected to Seibu Railway Seibu Shinjuku Line Station
Admission: Buffet Dining Prince Marche Lunch 5,000 yen / Dinner 6,500 yen
Website: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/shinjuku/
Strawberry Afternoon Tea "Fraise et rose rouge"
Source:PR TIMES
Garden Lounge at Rihga Royal Hotel Tokyo is hosting the strawberry afternoon tea "Fraise et rose rouge."
Garden Lounge features natural light streaming through a two-story atrium ceiling, and the windows overlook "Okuma Garden," a garden associated with Shigenobu Okuma, a former Prime Minister of Japan, where you can enjoy the scenery of all four seasons.
This afternoon tea uses "Tochiaika" strawberries from Tochigi Prefecture, a premium strawberry brand known for its intense sweetness and beautiful color.
The sweets include strawberry and elderflower jelly, strawberry roll cake, and strawberry and pistachio tart. There's also an excellent selection of savory items such as lasagna and bouillabaisse-style soup.
You can spend a special time in a gorgeous atmosphere.
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Date: January 5 (Mon) – March 15 (Sun), 2026
Access: About 3-minute walk from Toden Arakawa Line "Waseda" Station
Admission: 7,300 yen
Website: https://www.rihga.co.jp/tokyo/restaurant/list/garden_lounge
Experience "The Greatest Entertainment District of the East" with a Local Guide in Shinjuku!
Magical Trip offers small group tours led by guides who know the local area inside and out.
In approximately 3.5 hours, you can explore the retro dining alley known as "Omoide Yokocho" and hidden gems in "Kabukicho," the greatest entertainment district of the East, while enjoying yakitori, gyoza, Japanese sake, and more.
There are also tours where you can savor authentic cuisine such as yakiniku using Japanese brand beef and sushi.
Popular restaurants are reserved in advance by the guide, so you don't have to worry about getting into hard-to-book places. The guide handles all ordering and food explanations, and will also teach you about Japanese culture, etiquette, and the best way to enjoy each dish.
One of the pleasures of Shinjuku nightlife is enjoying conversations with fellow customers while drinking. With the guide as an intermediary, you can overcome language barriers and enjoy Tokyo's nightlife like a local.
