A new high-rise complex with over 50 floors opened in Shinjuku area
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Shinjuku, known for its striking skyscrapers, is one of Tokyo’s major business hubs, housing numerous corporate offices and government buildings. It’s also a key transportation center, featuring one of the busiest train stations in the world. Amidst the urban hustle, Shinjuku offers beautiful parks like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, providing a peaceful escape in the city’s heart.
But above all, Shinjuku is famous for being one of Tokyo’s most exciting neighborhoods and top entertainment districts, alongside Shibuya. It’s a must-visit area with a lively nightlife featuring hundreds of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, all brightly lit with colorful neon lights. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to eat or a fun spot to dance, Shinjuku has something for everyone after dark.
Recently, Shinjuku has unveiled an exciting new addition: the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, located in Kabukicho. As Japan’s largest entertainment complex, it has quickly become a must-visit destination. Want to know more? Let’s dive into everything the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower has to offer!
What is Tokyu Kabukicho Tower?
The Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is a stunning 225-meter high-rise located in the heart of Kabukicho. Completed in 2023, it stands as Japan’s 19th tallest building, featuring 48 floors above ground and five below. The complex includes a live concert hall, a movie theater, various restaurants, entertainment facilities, and two hotels.
Be sure to visit for fantastic photo opportunities that capture the lively energy of the area. Don’t miss your chance to take stunning Tokyu Kabukicho Tower photos against its unique design and vibrant streets!
8 things you can enjoy at Kabukicho Tower
- Kabuki Hall:
- NAMCO TOKYO:
- THE TOKYO MATRIX:
- EXSTION:
- THEATER MILANO-Za:
- 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku:
- HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU & BELLUSTAR TOKYO:
- Live Hall Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO):
1. Kabuki Hall:
Indulge in a Food Court Styled like a Yokocho Alley
On the first floor of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, visitors can explore a variety of restaurants and cafes, including KABUKI BURGER & TACOS, which offers modern Mexican cuisine in a stylish space infused with Japanese aesthetics. There’s also Wagyu Tokku, a dining spot by Heijo-en, renowned for its high-quality Japanese beef, featuring delicious hamburgers and roast beef.
You’ll find a Starbucks on the east side of the first floor, along with Bon Lumière, a takeout shop specializing in food and sweets made with Hokkaido ingredients.
On the second floor, Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho awaits, an entertainment food hall that blends food, music, and video for a festive atmosphere. This vibrant space hosts 10 restaurants, offering a diverse range of dishes, including regional specialties, Korean cuisine, gourmet options, rice bowls, noodles, yakitori, gyoza, and sake from across Japan.
The food hall is equipped with a stage, DJ booth, mirror ball, LED lights, and karaoke, making it a lively destination open 24 hours a day!
2. NAMCO TOKYO:
Relive your Childhood in an Exciting Gaming Arcade
NAMCO TOKYO is BANDAI NAMCO Group’s new amusement complex, situated on the third floor. This lively space, illuminated by neon lights, features an amusement area with the latest crane games, an event space, a food and beverage section, and a merchandise store.
If you’re a fan of gaming arcades, this is the place for you! Enjoy a wide range of arcade games, including taiko drumming, racing simulators, and claw machines, featuring the largest claw machine in Shinjuku.
Of special note the Pac-Man Parfait – Night Parfait Strawberry offered in the food area, developed jointly with Parfeteria Belle, a leading night parfait specialty store.
3. THE TOKYO MATRIX:
Immerse Yourself in a Thrilling Dungeon Experience
THE TOKYO MATRIX offers a unique dungeon experience that showcases Sony Group’s cutting-edge technologies. This interactive attraction blends real-life and online participation, allowing players to team up with friends to defeat monsters, find items, and navigate traps in a massive dungeon.
Designed for groups of two to three, here visitors can dive into an unprecedented gaming experience that feels like stepping into an anime or video game. The current experience is based on Sword Art Online, the popular anime. Are you ready to take on Kirito and Asuna?
4. EXSTION:
A Fusion of Wellness and Entertainment
If you live or work near Shinjuku and are looking to take better care of your health and start exercising, EXSTION is the perfect place for you. This wellness facility focuses on beauty and health, allowing you to relax and recharge. The wellness area features a gym, private saunas, and a terrace pool, along with a restaurant offering delicious food and drinks.
5. THEATER MILANO-Za:
A Hub for Film and Live Performance
THEATER MILANO-Za is a theater with 907 seats spanning the 6th to 8th floors. It offers a diverse range of entertainment, including straight plays, musicals, 2.5-dimensional plays, live seated music performances, and video events.
6. 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku:
The Ultimate Movie Experience
On the 9th and 10th floors, you’ll find 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku, featuring eight screens and 752 seats. Equipped with the SAION -SR EDITION sound system, the theater delivers an incredibly realistic audio experience.
In the main lounge, guests can enjoy unlimited refills of popcorn and drinks, while The Bar offers seasonal Japanese whiskeys and craft beers. 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku provides an exceptional movie experience in the heart of Shinjuku, with spacious screens and comfy seating. Whether you’re watching a blockbuster or an indie film, it’s the perfect spot for movie lovers to relax and enjoy tasty snacks.
7. HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU & BELLUSTAR TOKYO:
Two Hotels in the Sky
A boutique hotel and a luxury hotel managed by Tokyu Hotels are located from the 17th to 47th floors.
HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU occupies the 18th to 38th floors, immersing guests in the vibrant culture of Shinjuku and Kabukicho. After enjoying entertainment at the nearby movie theater and theater, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the afterglow of your evening. The restaurant offers unique drinks and dishes that highlight local flavors.
BELLUSTAR TOKYO, a luxury hotel in the sky, is located on the 39th to 47th floors, with guest rooms over 170 meters above ground. The 45th floor boasts a restaurant with a stunning three-story atrium that offers breathtaking views of the city, while the 47th floor features a spa where guests can relax and take in the spectacular scenery.
8. Live Hall Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO):
Your Destination for Unforgettable Live Music
Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO), one of the largest live music halls in the Shinjuku area with a capacity of 1,500 people, is located from the first basement floor to the fourth basement floor and will offer a unique music experience. The hall hosts live events and other events as a venue for promote Tokyo’s music, especially the live music culture of Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district, which is crowded with live music clubs of all sizes.
In addition during nighttime hours, the space of Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO) transforms to a night entertainment facility with the name of ZEROTOKYO. The space offer all kinds of entertainment content, including music, DJs, scenography and performances.
How to Get to Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
To arrive at Kabukicho Tower, follow these steps:
1. Take the Train:
Head to Shinjuku Station. You can access it via the JR lines, Tokyo Metro, or Oedo Line.
2. Exit Shinjuku Station:
Use the East Exit to exit the station (you can skip this part if your hotel is already in Shinjuku).
3. Walk to Kabukicho:
From the East Exit, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to Kabukicho Tower. Follow the signs toward Kabukicho.
4. Look for Kabukicho Tower:
Once in the Kabukicho area, look for the tower; it’s a prominent landmark in the neighborhood.
If you’re using Google Maps or a similar navigation app, simply enter “Kabukicho Tower” for precise directions!
Access | One-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line)/ 6-minute walk from Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station (Toei Oedo Line)/ 7-minutes walk from Shinjuku Station (JR lines, Odakyu Line and Keio Line) |
---|---|
Address | 〒160-0021 1-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo |
Business Hours | 24 hours |
Official Website | https://www.tokyu-kabukicho-tower.jp/ |
FAQ
Can kids go to Kabukicho Tower?
Yes, kids can visit Kabukicho Tower! While the area is known for its nightlife, the tower itself features family-friendly attractions, including restaurants and entertainment options suitable for all ages. It’s a great place for families to enjoy the atmosphere of Shinjuku together.
Tourist Reviews of Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower has garnered a mix of reviews from visitors, with an overall solid, though varied, rating across different platforms. On Google, the tower holds a rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on over 1,000 reviews, indicating a generally positive experience for many visitors. However, it receives a more modest rating of 3 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, and 3.5 on Yelp, suggesting that while the tower has its highlights, there are some mixed feelings regarding certain aspects of the visit.
One reviewer on Tripadvisor shared a glowing review, appreciating the cultural atmosphere of the building:
“It’s a new building in the middle of Kabukicho. The food court on the second floor was filled with goldfish and kabuki objects and paintings, and it was like a condensed version of JAPAN. It had a fun and unique atmosphere. If you go up to the upper floors, there are restaurants with a nice atmosphere and a place where you can see the sunset. I think this is also a must-visit. If you haven’t been there yet, I recommend you do so.”
– from Tripadvisor
The reviewer enjoyed the unique decor, likening it to a miniature representation of Japan, and recommended the restaurants on the upper floors for their ambiance and sunset views.
On the other hand, a Yelp reviewer provided a more cautionary tale about the costs involved during their visit:
“Ignore the hype… After searching down Kabukicho and finding the tower it had all the flashy bright decor though as soon as we walked in not knowing we were greeted by a lovely staff not knowing she was searching for guests to guide them to their establishment. We literally just walked up the escalators and in the door so if you’re not ready to dine just politely refuse and continue up to the arcade area, don’t get me wrong it’s a cool place that many seem to enjoy the surrounding scene but just know what you want and to dine here is actually decent as our udon was ¥879 but my oolong tea was ¥329 and with a table charge of ¥439 our tab turned out to be ¥3294 not something that’s mentioned so don’t get trapped into additional hidden fees. They had a Starbucks as well though we were done by then, lovely place that looks fun though it can cost you more than you know. どうもありがとうございます!”
– from Yelp.com
While they appreciated the overall vibe of the tower, they expressed concerns about hidden dining fees, which can unexpectedly raise the total bill.
Another Yelp reviewer shared a more enthusiastic perspective, particularly enjoying the entertainment options:
“I was excited to finally visit the new Tokyo Kabukicho Tower after reading about the development a year ago. My friend and I ate at the food court-ish area. This area featured various Japanese regions food cuisine in one setting. The setting blasted retro and current music on the speakers and complimented the lively setting. We also visited the Namco entertainment center that had a huge crane game area. The best experience at the Namco center was watching the excitement and joy on the Otakus’ face and seeing them get excited as their virtual idol appearing on screen and belting out their song. There is also a cinema located in the building but was closed at the time when we visited. Definitely visit here when in Shinjuku.”
– from Yelp.com
This reviewer was particularly drawn to the lively food court and Namco entertainment center, enjoying the unique blend of regional cuisine and the energetic atmosphere of the crane games and virtual idol performances.
In summary, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower offers a vibrant and fun experience with its unique decor, diverse dining options, and entertainment facilities. However, visitors should be aware of potential additional costs when dining to avoid unexpected surprises.
Tourist Attractions Near Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
As I said in the introduction, Shinjuku has much to offer! So Tokyo Kabukicho Tower is the newest spot, there are several other interesting attractions nearby that are worth exploring:
Omoide Yokocho
Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory Lane,” is a charming alleyway in Shinjuku, famous for its narrow streets lined with tiny izakayas and street food stalls. This nostalgic area offers a taste of post-war Japan, with a variety of grilled skewers, ramen, and local delicacies. The lively atmosphere, combined with the warm glow of lanterns, makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience traditional Japanese dining in a cozy setting.
For more information: Omoide Yokocho: Tokyo’s Most Iconic Izakaya Alley
Shinjuku Golden-gai
Shinjuku Golden-gai is a famous nightlife district in Shinjuku known for its narrow alleyways and unique collection of tiny bars and eateries. Each establishment has its own character, often decorated with eclectic themes and offering a cozy atmosphere. Golden-gai is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, providing an intimate setting to enjoy drinks and conversations. The area retains a nostalgic charm, reflecting post-war Tokyo, and is a great place to experience the vibrant nightlife and culture of the city.
For more information: Shinjuku Golden Gai: A Bohemian Haven in Tokyo
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, located in Shinjuku, is an iconic landmark known for its distinctive design featuring two towers. Completed in 1991, it houses the offices of the Tokyo metropolitan government. Visitors can access free observation decks on the 45th floors of both towers, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji. The building’s unique architecture, designed by Kenzo Tange, and its surrounding parks make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
In addition, for the past few months, they’ve been featuring a projection mapping show on the city hall’s facade at night!
For more information: TOKYO Night and Light: Largest Projection-mapped at Shinjuku
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Written by
From Barcelona to Tokyo. Coffee & Adventure lover🌏☕️
I started to like Japan because of the anime, music and doramas, but after my first trip to the country I found what I love the most: traveling around, the culture and history. I have travelled a lot in Japan, but I still have many places to discover that I want to share with you🙋🏼♀️ Let’s discover Japan together!
Also, as a foreigner living in Japan for over 6 years I understand what kind of things are difficult when you move here and I want to help other people in the same situation that I have in the past.