Terrance J.United States
Hiro was great. Great knowledge and a fun personality. We had fun visiting several Izakaya's. He showed us an area that we would have never found on our own. Awesome Evening!!
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Private tour in Tokyo Hiroaki M
Shinjuku Izakaya & Nightlife Tour: A Local’s Food & Drink Experience
5.0
(4) reviews
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Hiroaki M.
5.0
Guide rating
29
Reviews
Tours delivered
5 hrs
Avg. response time
I am a nationally licensed Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan, and in 2025 alone, I have led more than 250 tours in and around Tokyo. Travel has always been my passion. I have explored 35 countries and traveled extensively throughout Japan, which has given me a deep appreciation for cultural differences and meaningful local experiences. Before becoming a full-time guide, I worked at an international hotel, where I developed strong hospitality skills while welcoming guests from all over the world. Since becoming a private guide in 2024, I have conducted over 210 tours in my first year. My goal is simple: to create immersive, personalized experiences that help you truly connect with Japan — not just see it. I am also certified as a Tokyo City Guide and have received over 200 five-star reviews from guests. My tours include Tokyo city walks, Tsukiji food experiences, Shinjuku nightlife tours, sumo viewing experiences, and e-bike adventures. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, I would be honored to show you Japan in a way that feels authentic, relaxed, and unforgettable. I look forward to welcoming you.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Hiroaki M.
Shinjuku After Dark: Retro Bars & Local Drinking Culture
Overview of your Tokyo tour
Step into the electric streets of Shinjuku and experience Tokyo’s nightlife like never before. This guided bar-hopping tour explores Shinjuku’s lively drinking scene, from nostalgic alleyways to hidden local favorites, where you’ll enjoy authentic Japanese sake, beer, and delicious street food. Visit iconic spots like Omoide Yokocho, stroll through backstreets filled with tiny izakayas and retro bars, and step into the legendary Golden Gai, famous for its narrow lanes and unique atmosphere. Along the way, learn about Japanese nightlife culture, etiquette, and local stories with the help of a friendly guide who makes ordering easy and stress-free. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, this tour offers an authentic and unforgettable night out in one of Tokyo’s most exciting districts. Cheers—kanpai!—to a great night in Shinjuku!
Recent Reviews
Kari N.United States
Hiroaki is a fantastic guide. He took us to several tiny izakaya in Shinjuku that we would have been too intimidated to go to. (Plus, most did not have English menus.). I highly recommend that you go on an empty stomach because there are so many delicious things to try. And Hiroaki knows what is good and can eat as much as anyone. We really loved the final “dive bar” he took us to in Golden Gai. We highly recommend Hiroaki to anyone who is interested in the Shinjuku nightlife! Thank you for a great evening Hiroaki-San!!!
Alison H.United States
Our tour with Hiro was amazing! 10/10 would recommend him to show you this vibrant and iconic area of Tokyo. We ate food we never would have tried otherwise and experienced local favorite spots that were “hidden” to have a more authentic experience. Don’t wait to book this tour!
Your Tokyo tour itinerary
【Tokyo Shinjuku Night Bar-Hopping Tour】 Meet at Shinjuku Station West Exit In front of UNIQLO FLOWER Shinjuku West Exit Store — an easy and well-known meeting spot. Explore Omoide Yokocho A nostalgic alley packed with tiny izakayas, grilled skewers, and classic Showa-era vibes. Walk through Shinjuku East Exit Area Bright lights, busy streets, and the energetic heart of Tokyo nightlife. Discover Kabukicho Tokyo’s most famous entertainment district, full of neon signs, stories, and contrasts. Visit Golden Gai Iconic narrow alleys with unique, character-filled bars, each with its own personality. Bar-hopping with a local guide Enjoy yakitori, small dishes, drinks, and sake while learning local nightlife culture. Shinjuku Golden Gai is the final stop of the tour.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Walking
Just walking around Shinjuku city center! Kabukicho area is very flat and easy to walk around, making it a comfortable stroll.
What's included
Private Guide
Food Drinks Snacks
Services: Local Information
Other: Japan trip tips & Take Nice Photos
What's not included
Other: Personal Expenses
Meeting location
Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
At the West Exit of JR Shinjuku Station, you’ll find UNIQLO FLOWER Shinjuku West Exit Store. The store is located on the 1st floor of Shinjuku Palette. Please note that there are many UNIQLO stores around Shinjuku Station, so make sure to come to UNIQLO FLOWER Shinjuku West Exit. Right in front of the store is an open street, making it an easy and convenient meeting spot. Let’s meet in front of UNIQLO FLOWER! Address：〒160-0022 東京都新宿区西新宿１丁目１−１ 新宿パレット １階 https://maps.app.goo.gl/cmoTRjCEoNTu1Err6
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Night
Food And Drink
Off The Beaten Path
Art And Culture
Tour reference number
1453320
Languages
English
JapaneseActivity level
Light
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Tokyo best suited for?
This private tour in Tokyo is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and small groups who want to experience the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku. It's ideal for those interested in exploring local drinking culture, enjoying authentic Japanese sake and street food, and discovering hidden bars and izakayas with a knowledgeable local guide.
Where does the tour start and end?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a 20% deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- The remaining balance will automatically be charged to your credit card 30 days before your tour date.