What Is Shinjuku Like?

Shinjuku is Tokyo at full speed.
It’s the city’s largest transportation hub, a major business district, and one of the most energetic nightlife and entertainment areas—all packed into one place.

What makes Shinjuku unique is how dramatically the atmosphere changes depending on which exit you take. One side feels corporate and polished, while another is vibrant and buzzing well into the night.

If you’re familiar with New York, imagine Midtown, Times Square, and a massive transit terminal layered together—only cleaner, safer, and far more efficient.


Why Stay in Shinjuku?

1. Easy Transportation = No Wasted Time

Japan’s public transportation system is reliable, affordable, and extremely safe. When traveling around Tokyo, what really matters isn’t distance—it’s how many transfers you need to make.

Shinjuku is Japan’s largest transportation hub, with direct access to nearly every major area in Tokyo. Many destinations can be reached without transfers, making it possible to explore more of the city in less time. If you’re visiting Tokyo for a limited stay, Shinjuku allows you to move efficiently without constantly checking routes.


2. A Stress-Free Choice for Your First Tokyo Trip

Shinjuku is packed with restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and drugstores, all within walking distance. If you forget something at home or need to adjust plans last minute, everything you need is close by—reducing unnecessary stress during your stay.

Dining options are especially impressive. From Japanese cuisine to international restaurants, casual spots to refined dining, the variety is unmatched. You can decide what to eat based on your mood rather than fixed reservations.

Another major advantage is that Shinjuku never truly shuts down. Streets stay well-lit, people are always around, and essential services remain open late into the night. This makes it easy to move around comfortably, even after a long day. For first-time visitors, Shinjuku offers one of the most forgiving and flexible environments in Tokyo.


5 Luxury Hotels in Shinjuku Worth Booking

1. Park Hyatt Tokyo

Why it stands out
A symbol of classic luxury in Tokyo, known for its serenity, high-floor views, and refined atmosphere. Famously featured in Lost in Translation.

Best for
Couples, solo travelers, and those seeking a quiet, elegant stay

Luxury level
★★★★★ (5/5)

Average price per night
JPY 80,000–150,000+

Access
★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Neighborhood vibe
Calm high-rise district in West Shinjuku

To Shinjuku Station
10–15 minutes on foot (taxi optional)

Best breakfast
Elegant morning dining at New York Grill

Best dinner
New York Grill & Bar with panoramic city views


2. Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo

Why it stands out
A stylish, design-forward hotel with a modern lifestyle feel and vibrant social spaces.

Best for
Friends, couples, and design-conscious solo travelers

Luxury level
★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

Average price per night
JPY 30,000–70,000

Access
★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

Neighborhood vibe
Close to central Shinjuku with easy access to shopping and nightlife

To Shinjuku Station
7–10 minutes on foot

Best breakfast
Customizable breakfast at District – Brasserie, Bar, Lounge

Best dinner
Modern American cuisine at District


3. Hilton Tokyo

Why it stands out
A globally trusted luxury brand offering consistent service, large facilities, and multiple dining options.

Best for
Business travelers and families

Luxury level
★★★★☆ (4/5)

Average price per night
JPY 30,000–60,000

Access
★★★★☆ (4/5)

Neighborhood vibe
Quiet hotel district with commercial areas nearby

To Shinjuku Station
8–12 minutes on foot

Best breakfast
Extensive buffet with Japanese and Western options

Best dinner
Multiple in-house restaurants covering various cuisines


4. Hyatt Regency Tokyo

Why it stands out
A well-balanced, reliable hotel offering comfort and value within a luxury framework.

Best for
Families, business travelers, and solo stays

Luxury level
★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)

Average price per night
JPY 20,000–50,000

Access
★★★★☆ (4/5)

Neighborhood vibe
Quiet area near Shinjuku Central Park

To Shinjuku Station
10–12 minutes on foot

Best breakfast
Classic buffet-style breakfast

Best dinner
Wide selection including Western, Japanese, and Asian dishes


5. BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel

Why it stands out
A newly opened ultra-luxury hotel located in the upper floors of Kabukicho Tower, offering breathtaking city views and a resort-like atmosphere in the sky.

Best for
Couples, special occasions, and travelers focused on views and experience

Luxury level
★★★★★ (5/5)

Average price per night
JPY 50,000–150,000+

Access
★★★★★ (5/5)

Neighborhood vibe
Lively entertainment district below, serene luxury above

To Shinjuku Station
About 7 minutes on foot

Best breakfast
Highly rated American-style breakfast at the hotel restaurant

Best dinner
Creative fine dining with panoramic views and an elegant bar experience


Practical Tips

All of these hotels are within walking distance of Shinjuku Station, so taxis are rarely necessary.
For breakfast lovers, Park Hyatt and BELLUSTAR offer especially memorable morning dining experiences.
If you prefer dining in-house, New York Grill, District, and BELLUSTAR’s sky-high restaurants make it easy to enjoy a great evening without leaving the hotel.

Staying in Shinjuku isn’t just about convenience—it’s about making your entire Tokyo experience smoother and more refined.
Pair this location with a well-chosen luxury hotel, and your stay becomes effortless, memorable, and distinctly Tokyo.