Cheers! Bar Hopping Tour W/ a Local Guide in Shinjuku Kabukicho

Shinjuku Kabukicho is Tokyo’s most vibrant nightlife district, and the "Cheers! Bar Hopping Tour with a Local Guide" offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in its lively atmosphere. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you will embark on a journey through cozy izakayas, sampling delectable sushi and a variety of drinks, from local craft beers to signature cocktails. As the tour unfolds, hidden gems and cultural insights await, promising an unforgettable evening of exploration and discovery.

Key Points

• Explore the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku Kabukicho, Tokyo’s largest red-light district, on a guided bar hopping tour led by a local.
• Sample a variety of Japanese craft beers, signature cocktails, and whisky at a selection of intimate izakayas, speakeasies, and karaoke joints.
• Gain insights into Japanese drinking customs, such as Kanpai and Nomikai, and learn about the rich history of Kabukicho as an entertainment hub.
• Enjoy sushi and five alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks as part of the tour package, with admission and cover charges included.
• Experience an unforgettable culture in Tokyo’s dynamic urban nightlife, with the tour continuing rain or shine.

Exploring Shinjuku Kabukicho

What makes Shinjuku Kabukicho such a captivating destination? This vibrant neighborhood in Tokyo is renowned for its electric atmosphere, neon-lit streets, and diverse array of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.

As the largest red-light district in Japan, Kabukicho teems with energy, from quirky izakayas to sleek cocktail lounges. Visitors can enjoy the lively nightlife, explore narrow alleyways, and discover hidden gems.

Whether you’re seeking karaoke, traditional Japanese cuisine, or simply the thrill of the unexpected, Kabukicho offers an unforgettable glimpse into Tokyo’s dynamic urban culture.

It’s a neighborhood that truly never sleeps.

Meeting at the Iconic Louis Vuitton Intersection

The lively atmosphere of Shinjuku Kabukicho sets the stage for the start of the bar hopping tour.

Participants gather in front of the iconic Louis Vuitton intersection, a bustling meeting point at the heart of the district. The guide greets the group, ensuring everyone has arrived and is ready to embark on the evening’s adventure.

With the towering neon signs and bustling crowds as a backdrop, the guide provides a brief overview of the tour, highlighting the diverse drinking establishments they’ll explore.

Soon, the group sets off, eager to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Kabukicho.

Sipping Drinks and Tasting Sushi

First, the guide leads the group to the inaugural bar on the tour, a cozy izakaya known for its impressive selection of Japanese craft beers and expertly-prepared small plates. As the group settles in, they’re served a sampling of delectable sushi, from the classic tuna nigiri to the creative shrimp tempura roll. Between bites, they sip on a variety of Japanese brews, each offering a unique flavor profile.

Beer	Tasting Notes
Hitachino Nest White Ale	Citrusy, spicy, and refreshing
Yoho Brewing Suiyoubi no Neko	Smooth, malty, with notes of caramel
Baird Beer Rising Sun Pale Ale	Hoppy, floral, and well-balanced

Satisfied and buzzing with excitement, the group prepares to continue their bar-hopping adventure through the vibrant Kabukicho district.

Navigating the Vibrant Bar Scene

As the group departs the cozy izakaya, the guide leads them deeper into the vibrant heart of Kabukicho, where the neon-lit streets pulse with an electric energy.

Weaving through the bustling crowds, they encounter a diverse array of bars, each with its own distinct character. From intimate speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors to raucous karaoke joints, the guide navigates the labyrinth, sharing insider tips and stories.

The group samples local craft beers, signature cocktails, and traditional Japanese whisky, seeing the lively nightlife scene.

With the guide’s expertise, they discover the hidden gems that only locals know, creating unforgettable memories.

Experiencing Japanese Culture and Nightlife

Although the bar hopping tour takes visitors on a lively journey through Kabukicho’s nightlife, it also provides an immersive experience in Japanese culture.

Participants learn about traditional Japanese drinking customs, such as:

• Kanpai – the ritual of clinking glasses and toasting
• Nomikai – the custom of group drinking, often after work
• Izakaya – the unique Japanese-style pubs that serve small plates alongside beverages

Beyond the drinks, the tour guides share insights into Kabukicho’s history as an entertainment district, allowing travelers to better understand the vibrant atmosphere they experience firsthand.

Tour Inclusions and Participant Requirements

The bar hopping tour in Shinjuku Kabukicho includes admission and cover charges, sushi, and five alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, with all fees and taxes covered. Transportation to the meeting point is also provided.

Inclusion	Details
Admission and Cover Charges	Covers entry to the bars
Sushi and Drinks	5 drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and sushi
Fees and Taxes	All fees and taxes are included
Transportation	Covers cost to get to the meeting point

Participants under 20 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and underage drinking is prohibited. Most travelers can participate, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. If the tour is canceled due to bad weather, participants are eligible for an alternative date or an instant refund.

The tour requires a minimum number of participants; if this isn’t met, guests can opt for a different date or receive a full refund.

• Late arrivals will result in tour cancellation, so be sure to arrive on time.
• The tour is non-refundable within 24 hours of the start time.
• Participants should dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour continues rain or shine.

Getting to the End Point

After the 3-hour bar hopping tour concludes at the meeting point, you will make their own way to the end destination, Shinjuku Ale, located in the Kabukichō district of Shinjuku.

This popular izakaya-style pub is just a short 20-minute walk from the tour’s starting point. Travelers can easily navigate the lively Shinjuku streets, taking in the neon lights and bustling atmosphere of the neighborhood.

Shinjuku Ale offers a relaxed setting to continue the evening, with a wide selection of Japanese beers, sake, and casual pub fare. Participants are free to explore Kabukichō on their own after the tour ends.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accommodating dietary restrictions. However, it does include sushi, so those with seafood allergies may want to inquire about alternative food options. The tour may not be the best fit for those with strict dietary needs.

Can Participants Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the tour, though they’re advised to be mindful of others’ privacy and the guide’s instructions. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Purchasing Alcoholic Beverages?

Participants under 20 cannot purchase alcoholic beverages due to Japan’s Minors Alcoholic Beverage Law. Those under 20 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and will be served soft drinks instead.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

This tour cannot be customized to focus on specific interests. The itinerary is fixed, and the group size is limited to a maximum of 6 participants. However, the guide can provide recommendations for other activities that align with individual interests.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code, but comfortable, casual attire is recommended. Avoid overly revealing or formal wear. The focus is on exploring Shinjuku’s nightlife, so dressing to blend in and move around easily is best.

The Sum Up

The Cheers! Bar Hopping Tour with a Local Guide in Shinjuku Kabukicho offers an unforgettable night of vibrant nightlife and culture. Visitors will explore cozy izakayas, sample delicious sushi, and enjoy a variety of drinks while discovering hidden gems and learning about the lively atmosphere of Tokyo’s largest red-light district. With insider tips and stories from the guide, this tour promises lasting memories for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.