Shinjuku

I have to admit that Shinjuku Golden Gai was a very pleasant and fun place to visit. The tiny houses, often two stories high, are converted into bars and run by one or two people. They often have a theme and the people who stop there certainly have plenty of stories to tell. The second floor is often accessed by a steep staircase and the second floor can have a completely different style than the ground floor. I would have loved to have stopped there but this place is not for groups or a family of 4 with underage children. Although we all enjoyed our visit, we were not able to fully soak up the atmosphere of camaraderie.

Hidden behind modern skyscrapers of the grand boulevards with dazzling modern neon lights of Shinjuku, this small dark district of 6 narrow pedestrian alleys takes us back in time. The lighting is subdued and gives a secretive side to the site. Despite the lighting, the district buzzes and each house has its style. Some bars offer grills, which adds to the experience of the place. All your senses will then be solicited but to feel the atmosphere of the place you have to come in the evening, ideally after 9 p.m.

The spaces to move around are also very limited, two people wide and we are shoulder to shoulder. The area has nearly 200 bars in this place that was once, before 1958, a red light district known for prostitution. The crammed establishments sometimes seem to be dilapidated but here the appearance is less important than its contents and that is what makes it beautiful.

You should know that when we say tiny spaces we are talking about places that can accommodate 8 people at most, sometimes only 5. No space is very large and you are seated at a counter facing your host. We quickly understand that some bars have a regular clientele, others are mainly for locals, some seem closed when in fact, they are a little hidden and that you have only accepted by invitation and others appreciate visitors.

The principle of the “bar hopper” is so much easier here because of the proximity of the sites and is quite common. Note that some establishments ask to pay a cover charge.

These refreshment bars seem to me to be an ideal place for cultural exchange. Even if you can’t take the time to sip a drink, know that we felt safe and the aroma of the grill and the music overflows into the alleys where you wander so you will be integrated into the rhythm of the places.

There are no other places like this in Tokyo, it’s a destination in itself.

It’s not necessarily cheap. Bring cash to make your visit easier.

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