Places to Visit near Shinjuku
This page features some of my top recommended sightseeing spots around Shinjuku
In Tokyo, it is helpful to have internet access, which allows you to use Google Maps.
Train/subway system in Tokyo is complicated. I recommend installing and using Japan Transit Planner.
Search for it by name on the Apple Store or Google Play Store and install it on your cellphone in advance.
I also recommend that you get either the Welcome SUICA prepaid card or the Welcome SUICA app, which is the IC system that you can use for train and subway fare payments. The app supports only iPhone, so that if you are an Android user, please get the prepaid card.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPfJbrqCCA8
1. Meiji Jingu Shrine (明治神宮)
Meiji jingu is a grand Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Nestled in a serene forest near Harajuku, it offers a peaceful retreat, traditional architecture and is a major site for weddings and New Year visits.
Admission (Inner Garden): 500JPY
Hours: 9am-4pm (Shrine property is open from sunrise to sunset)
Access: 1 min walk from Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae Station (by Tokyo Metro Chiyoda line) or JR Harajuku Station (by JR Yamanote line)
https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/
2. Nezu Museum (根津美術館)
Nezu Museum in Aoyama showcases pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art from the Nezu family collection. Renowned for its refined architecture and peaceful Japanese garden, the museum blends traditional aesthetics with modern design in central Tokyo.
Admission: 1,300JPY
Hours: 10am-5pm (last entry 4;30pm), Closed on Mondays
Access: 8 min walk from Omotesando Station by Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Hanzomon line or Chiyoda line
https://www.nezu-muse.or.jp/en/index.html
3. Tokyo metropolitan Government Building
(東京都庁)
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, designed by architect Kenzo Tange, features twin towers with free observation decks offering panoramic city views. Located in Shinjuku, it serves as Tokyo’s administrative center and a popular sightseeing spot.
There are the North Observation Deck and South Observation Deck. If you visit during the day, go to the North. If you want to see the night view, go to the South before 5pm. It can be a long line for the elevator after 6pm.
They do Tokyo Night & Light – displays projections for about 15min on the east face of the Building #1. Shows occur every 30min and visible from outside. Just go and watch.
Admission: (observation deck and projection show): free
Hours: North Deck 9:30am-5pm
Access: 1min walk from Tochomae Station by Toei Oedo line
https://www.zaimu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/tochousha/goannai/tenbou (click “language” at the top right corner)
4. Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑) – if you have time
An urban escape, Shinjuku Gyoen combines Japanese, English and French garden styles across beautifully landscaped grounds.
Admission: 500JPY (250JPY for senior)
Hours: 9am-4:30pm
Access: 5min walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station by Toei Oedo line or Tokyo Subway Marunouchi line
https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/english/2_guide/guide.html
5. Keio Department Store
(京王百貨店)
This department store at the JR Shinjuku Station will be the nearest one (about 10min walk) from the Washington Hotel. You find around 18 restaurants and cafes on the 8th floor. Various to-go food, bakeries, sweets and groceries on B1 and Mezzanine (MB) floors are so tempting. If you buy to-go food, make sure to ask for utensils. All stores carry those, but usually they charge for them.
Hours: 10am-8pm (stores), 11am-10pm (restaurants)
Access: South west side of JR Shinjuku Station (connected to the station)
https://www.keionet.com/info/shinjuku/foreign/en/
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