TOC
Shin-Okubo (Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Shin-Okubo is a multicultural area in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward, known in particular as "Korea Town." Since the 1990s, it has developed into a place where Korean restaurants, grocery stores, cosmetics shops, and K-POP related shops are concentrated. It attracts foreign residents, young people, and tourists, and its lively streets blend food culture, trends, and music. In recent years, the number of restaurants and stores not only from Korea but also from Islam and Southeast Asia has increased, making it a unique place where you can experience a variety of food and cultures in a short space of time.
Highlights
- Korean restaurants and food stalls: Enjoy a wide variety of authentic Korean barbecue, bibimbap, chicken, tteokbokki, hotteok, and other street-style snacks, making it a great place to eat and walk around any time of the day or night.
- K-POP and Korean goods shop: There are many specialty shops selling CDs, posters, official merchandise, and idol goods. Many fans visit the area looking for new releases and limited edition items.
- Cosmetics and beauty related stores: There are many select shops selling Korean cosmetics and salons offering Korean style makeup.
- Cross-cultural Market/SupermarketThere are plenty of supermarkets that sell Korean ingredients and imported foods, as well as stores where you can get rare ingredients.
- Karaoke (noraebang) and entertainment: There are many karaoke and event spaces where you can enjoy mainly K-POP, so it is lively at night as well.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Yamanote Line, Shin-Okubo Station, right outside the ticket gates (0-3 minute walk to the downtown area).
- Nearby stations: JR Chuo/Sobu Line Okubo Station/Higashinakano Station (5-10 minute walk) and JR Shinjuku Station, 10-15 minute walk from the east and west exits.
- Other: It is within walking distance (about 10 minutes) from Seibu Shinjuku Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line. It has good access from the main terminal (Shinjuku) and has direct train connections from all over the Tokyo metropolitan area.
- If you are coming by car, you can use the nearby parking lots, but we recommend using public transportation as you may have to wait for a parking space or the lot may be full during busy times.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short trip (1-2 hours): A plan to eat around and quickly visit the main shops.
- Half-day (3-4 hours): A plan to enjoy meals, shopping, cafes, karaoke, and more at your leisure.
- One day (5 hours or more): A plan that includes eating around and visiting multiple specialty shops, participating in events, and strolling around the neighborhood.
Nearby spots
- Shinjuku (Kabukicho, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Takashimaya, etc.): Accessible by foot or one station away. Concentrated with shopping and nightlife spots.
- Shinjuku Gyoen: A peaceful natural park perfect for seasonal flowers and strolls (accessible by foot or bus).
- Okubo Park and Kotakibashi Street area: Local shopping streets and restaurants are scattered around.
- Takadanobaba/Waseda area: Close to student areas, unique cafes, second-hand bookstores, etc., and can be reached by foot or train.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: It gets very crowded on weekends, holidays, and after the evening. Korean wave events and popular restaurants tend to have long lines, so we recommend visiting on weekdays between morning and afternoon, or making a reservation in advance.
- Walking etiquette：There are many narrow streets, so please be careful not to obstruct traffic while walking or with large luggage. Please be considerate of those around you when shopping or taking photos.
- Food and drink allergies: Many dishes are spicy or contain strong seasonings, so if you have allergies or don't like spicy food, please check in advance. Vegetarian options are increasing, but they can still be limited.
- payment: Although more and more stores are accepting credit cards and electronic payments, some small food stalls and independent shops only accept cash. It's a good idea to have a small amount of cash on hand.
- Public order/safety: Generally, the area is safe, but beware of pickpockets and purse snatchers when it gets crowded. Keep your valuables with you.
- Seasonal precautions: In the summer, it can be hot and difficult to eat while walking around outdoors, so be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat. In the winter, it's cold, so dress warmly. During the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, the park becomes increasingly crowded, along with the neighboring parks.
Shin-Okubo is an attractive area where you can enjoy international cuisine and Korean culture in a short amount of time. Please be sure to avoid crowds and follow proper etiquette while enjoying the food, shopping, and entertainment.
