Introduction
Just a one-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, Omoide Yokocho (“Memory Lane”) is a narrow alley filled with the aroma of grilled skewers and the glow of lanterns.
Known for its postwar charm and friendly atmosphere, this historic drinking street attracts both locals and international travelers.
In this guide, you’ll find five must-visit izakayas still operating as of 2025, along with access details and useful tips for first-time visitors.
What is Omoide Yokocho?
Omoide Yokocho originated as a black-market area after World War II and has now grown into one of Tokyo’s most beloved nightlife spots.
More than 80 tiny bars and eateries line the narrow alleyways, serving yakitori, ramen, and traditional comfort food.
With its nostalgic neon lights and close-knit atmosphere, it feels like stepping back into Showa-era Japan—a perfect place to experience Tokyo’s retro culture.
Top 5 Izakayas in Omoide Yokocho
① Gifuya
A long-established Chinese eatery dating back to the 1950s.
Beloved for its quick service and old-school flavors, Gifuya is always bustling with locals enjoying ramen and beer.
- Specialties: Ramen, Gyoza, Fried Rice
- Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM
- Closed: Open daily
💡 Tip: Open from lunchtime—great for an early drink or casual meal.
② Kameya
One of Tokyo’s most famous standing-soba shops.
Its signature dish, Ten-tama Soba (tempura and soft-boiled egg soba), is freshly made to order and loved for its rich flavor and affordable price.
- Specialties: Tempura Soba, Kakiage Soba
- Hours: 7 AM – 1 AM
- Closed: Open daily
💡 Tip: Open late at night—perfect for a post-drinking snack.
③ Banpaiya
A popular standing izakaya chain offering an authentic and budget-friendly Japanese drinking experience.
Enjoy small plates of sashimi, simmered dishes, and tempura starting from just a few hundred yen.
- Specialties: Beef Tendon Stew, Potato Salad, Assorted Sashimi
- Hours: 3 PM – 11:30 PM
- Closed: Open daily
💡 Tip: Great for first-time visitors who want to try a casual izakaya.
④ Kabuto
A legendary eel skewer bar with over 70 years of history.
Known for serving rare parts of eel—head, liver, and fins—grilled over charcoal by skilled masters.
Seats are limited and reservations aren’t accepted, so early arrival is recommended.
- Specialties: Eel Skewers (Kabuto-yaki)
- Hours: 3 PM – 10 PM (or until sold out)
- Closed: Sundays
💡 Tip: Authentic craftsmanship and irresistible aroma—worth the wait!
⑤ Ucchan
Famous for its yakitori and oden, Ucchan is a cozy red-lantern bar where locals gather for conversation and sake.
Their yakitori sauce has been aged and refined since the shop’s founding, creating a truly unique flavor.
- Specialties: Yakitori Platter, Oden Assortment
- Hours: 3:30 PM – 11 PM
- Closed: Mondays
💡 Tip: Try pairing oden with a warm cup of sake for a classic Tokyo taste.
Access & Location
- Access: 1 min walk from JR Shinjuku Station West Exit
- Address: Omoide Yokocho, 1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Varies by shop (typically from noon until midnight)
Visiting Tips & Etiquette
- The alleys are narrow—avoid eating or drinking outside the shop areas.
- Many places accept cash only, so bring yen.
- Expect crowds, especially after 6 PM on Fridays and weekends.
- Most shops have counter seating only—small groups are ideal.
Summary
Omoide Yokocho remains one of Shinjuku’s most atmospheric destinations, preserving the warmth and simplicity of Japan’s postwar culture.
Whether you sip sake at Ucchan, enjoy ramen at Gifuya, or savor eel skewers at Kabuto,
each tiny shop tells its own story of Tokyo’s past and present.
For travelers seeking an authentic local experience, Omoide Yokocho is a must-visit spot in Shinjuku’s nightlife scene.
Looking for the original article in Japanese?
Click here to view the Japanese version on Daily Shinjuku:
👉 https://daily-shinjuku.tokyo/2024/05/29/shinjuku-update-0529/
