A nostalgic drinking alley next to Shinjuku Station where the vestiges of the Showa era remain vivid
A retro Tokyo bar district brimming with postwar energy and warmth
【新宿西口 思い出横丁】
It’s just a short walk from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station, which boasts the world’s highest passenger traffic. In the heart of a metropolis lined with skyscrapers lies a space that feels like stepping back in time — 「新宿西口 思い出横丁」. Its roots trace back to around 1946, right after the end of the war, when a market of street vendors sprang up amid the burnt-out ruins. Within an area of about 630 tsubo, roughly 80 establishments—centered on grilled offal and yakitori joints, along with eateries and discount ticket shops—are packed closely together. With red lanterns glowing in narrow alleys and savory smoke drifting through the air, this neighborhood is beloved not only by domestic visitors seeking a traditional Japanese atmosphere, but also by travelers from around the world, making it one of Tokyo’s most popular spots.
Top 3 Highlights
Tap or click the images to view them at original size.
1. Streetscapes steeped in the essence of the Showa era
The greatest appeal of 思い出横丁 is its overwhelming “Showa retro” atmosphere that evokes the remnants of makeshift postwar barrack-style buildings. The uniquely built shops that share just a single wall and the maze-like narrow alleys create a rare scene found only here amid modern Shinjuku.
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
2. Traditional “motsuyaki” and yakitori, and the joy of bar hopping
Born amid postwar material shortages, “motsuyaki” remains synonymous with the alley. Many of the roughly 60 eateries serve skewers grilled with secret sauces handed down through generations. With delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices, hopping to two or three places in a night is the true charm of 思い出横丁.
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
3. Heartwarming “analog” experiences
An “analog” culture is still alive here. Many shops still accept cash only (no cashless payments), and in the narrow alleys, conversations naturally arise between neighboring customers or with the owners, letting you feel a human warmth that is fading in big cities.
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
Facility Information
| Name | 新宿西口 思い出横丁 |
| Address | 〒160-0023 東京都新宿区西新宿１丁目２ |
| Access |
About 1 minute on foot from JR Shinjuku Station About 1 minute on foot from Odakyu Line Shinjuku Station About 1 minute on foot from Keio Line Shinjuku Station |
| Hours / Closed days |
Varies by store ＞＞See details here |
| No smoking | On the premises of Omoide Yokocho, smoking is prohibited except inside establishments where it is permitted. |
| Official website | https://shinjuku-omoide.com/ |
Other recommended information
At Omoide Yokocho, you can cherish its history while also enjoying the colors of each season.
🔸Winter illumination: In winter, warm lights illuminate the alley, further enhancing its nostalgic atmosphere.
🔸November 24 “Omoide Yokocho Day”: Established to remember the lessons of the 1999 fire. In addition to disaster-preparedness drills, a Garapon lottery is held where you can win meal vouchers and more.
🔸September “Kumano Shrine Grand Festival”: A community-rooted festival is held, and the entire alley is filled with energy.
🔸Culture of shared toilets: Many shops along 仲通り do not have restrooms inside; using the renovated, clean shared toilets is also a distinctive feature of this neighborhood.
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
© 新宿西口商店街振興組合
References
- Shinjuku West Exit Omoide Yokocho official website: https://shinjuku-omoide.com/
BASIC INFORMATION
| Name |
新宿西口 思い出横丁 (シンジュクニシグチ・オモイデヨコチョウ) |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Access |
| Official URL | https://shinjuku-omoide.com/ |
| Official Social Media |
|
FACILITY INFORMATION
- Cigarettes
-
Non-smoking
- Equipment
-
Toilet
- Other
-
Near the station -
Recommended for families -
Recommended for couples -
Groups allowed -
Food and Beverage Facilities