If you’ve followed me for a while, you have seen me rant about how much I love &Here Ueno – so much so that it is my favourite hotel to recommend to families staying in Tokyo.
&Here Namba is also such an incredible hotel – this company really understand what families need in order to have a comfortable holiday.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
I was delighted to see that they have opened another branch recently – this time in Shinjuku.
In my opinion, &Here Shinjuku is a fabulous option if you:
-are holidaying with another family or an extended family
-love beautifully equipped hotels with high-quality English speaking customer service
-have children who are 10 years old+
-require rooms with lots of space and comfort
-really want to stay in Shinjuku
-want to take advantage of Japanese conveniences such as being able to forward luggage
The rooms at &Here Shinjuku
There are so many different combinations of rooms. For example one has a movie viewing space in the middle of the room, some rooms have separate bedrooms within the rooms, some rooms have bunks and one room type even has a sauna and a private balcony!
I love a room in Japan with a kitchenette- as it means that I can make simple meals. I made this chicken pesto pasta for my kids while staying at &Here Shinjuku.
Amenities for Children
&Here Shinjuku provides these adorable colourful slippers for children (collect them on the lobby floor.)
The rooftop terrace at &Here Shinjuku
The lobby is on the top floor and so is the open rooftop terrace. The views from up here are so beautiful and there were many extended families all catching up there in the evenings (for example Granny and Grandpa chatting with the grandkids and parents.) I love how this communal space is an option for guests. There is a card only bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks next to the terrace too.
See our favourite convenience store snacks and treats in my article here.
There is a bar next to the terrace that sells a range of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and some snacks. It is an unmanned fridge with a self-serve register – card only. Open from 7am-10pm. There is also tea and coffee.
Many of the rooms at &Here Shinjuku have washing machines /dryers in the rooms but there is also an in-house coin laundry on the ground floor.
What do I think of the location of &Here Shinjuku for families?
The hotel is stunning and so well equipped for families that you wouldn’t really notice once you’re there but I must admit that I don’t really love the location. It is not in the red light district of Kabukicho or anything so it doesn’t feel too seedy or dangerous or anything.
However, it isn’t the kind of area where you can just fall out of the hotel to look for somewhere to eat dinner with children – you will need to know where to go (I have created a list of options below to assist with this.)
The closest station is Shinjuku-Sanchome. Department store shopping is a little over 10 mins away and a bigger supermarket (see details on Cook-y supermarket below) is 5 mins walk. There are several convenience stores just a few minutes walk away.
Has this hotel convinced me that Shinjuku is no longer my least favourite choice for families? Unfortunately, no it has not.
Is it one of the best options for family accommodation in the Shinjuku area? Yes, I believe it is.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
ARE THERE ANY CONVENIENCE STORES NEAR &Here SHINJUKU?
Family Mart (1 min walk from &Here Shinjuku)
Lawson (2 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku)
7-Eleven (3 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku)
See here for our favourite convenience store snacks in Japan.
See here for how to make easy quick meals for children using convenience store ingredients.
See here for healthier convenience store options in Japan.
WHERE TO BUY NAPPIES/DIAPERS NEAR &Here SHINJUKU?
Tomod’s Shinjuku 2-Chome drugstore is 5 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku.
It is open weekdays 8:30am-10pm, Saturdays 9am-8pm & Sundays 10am-8pm.
The diapers on the bottom shelf here are all pants type (pull-up type)
The nappies in the dark blue packaging are the extra absorbent nighttime type. The exact one pictured are pull ups for children between 13-28kgs. I explain the different types of diapers in Japan here.
OR
Sugi Drug in Shinjuku 3-chome. It is 6 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku. Sugi Drug store has a decent range of diapers/nappies as well as baby food.
SUGI DRUG
新宿3-5-6 キュープラザ1F
GROUND FLOOR, KYU PLAZA BUILDING, 3-5-6 SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY 9AM-11PM
OR
Drug Seims in Nishi-Shinjuku 6-chome (9 mins in a cab from &Here Shinjuku). They stock nappies and are open 24 hours a day! See here for the brands of nappies we have used and recommend!
DRUG SEIMS, NISHI-SHINJUKU
西新宿6-16-6 新宿タツミビル 1階
GROUND FLOOR, SHINJUKU TATSUMI BUILDING, 6-16-6 NISHI-SHINJUKU
OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY
See my full list of where to buy nappies/diapers in Japan (as it isn’t as easy as you may originally imagine.)
I like to use these changing & feeding facilities in this area: (for the most up to date changing and feeding spots for parents, download the MamaPapaBabyMap app.
WHERE TO EAT BREAKFAST OUT NEAR &Here SHINJUKU?
If you’d like to dine out for breakfast I recommend the following options:
Sarabeths, western breakfast/brunch – 13 mins walk or 4 mins in a cab from &Here Shinjuku
I’m from Melbourne, Australia, and, to me, this kind of breakfast is very very old school. It was yummy and good quality but a bit like having breakfast out in the 80s.
The menu is on their website if you’d like to check ahead. My egg white and cheese omelette was delicious.
They do have high chairs for babies.
They also allow you to bring your own baby food into their restaurant.
SARABETHS, SHINJUKU
新宿区新宿3-38-2 ルミネ2 2階
2ND FLOOR, LUMINE 2 DEPARTMENT STORE, SHINJUKU
OPEN 9AM-10PM
WEBSITE
*Note carefully !!!! There are several Lumine department stores .This one is at LUMINE 2. (I’ve messed it up before.)
Gluten free or low allergen breakfast suggestion in Shinjuku
*This suggestion is for Nishi-Shinjuku (West Shinjuku), which I cover later down in this blog post but I wanted to lump the brekkie info together**
If you have a family member with serious allergies or who require a very strict gluten free diet, you are able to go to the Park Hyatt Shinjuku (aka the Lost in Translation hotel) for their breakfast buffet. It is expensive but they very clearly mark well known allergens and and gluten free items. I recommend making a reservation here. The Park Hyatt is 9 mins in a cab from &Here Shinjuku.
I have writtenmy advice for those with severe food allergies travelling in Japan here.
Gyoza in the morning anyone? – 6 mins in a taxi or 13 mins on foot from &Here Shinjuku
This is random suggestion but I thought I would put it here for those who want the full Japan experience right from the start of the day.
Kakekomi Gyoza is in Kabukicho in Shinjuku. This is an izakaya that specialises in Gyoza of all different types, fillings and colours. They are open 24 hours a day – 365 days a year!!! Kakekomi Gyoza also serve 1-2 vegan options. Please note that this restaurant only welcomes school aged kids and older (6 years +) so if you have younger children – get the takeout options ! For takeway gyoza here it is 1100 yen for 10 gyoza and 1900 yen for 20 !!!!!!!
The entire restaurant is non-smoking BUT it is in Kabukicho – the red light district – sooooo if visiting with kids, I will only ever visit between 9am-6pm – just because the area around the restaurant is a bit yucky (not dangerous but just lots of drunkies and light up girlie bar signs etc.)
Kakekomi Gyoza is 5 mins walk from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station. It’s right next tothe old Robot Restaurant.
For a full meal here, I would budget for 2500 yen per adult. They do accept credit cards. You can make reservations or you can just walk-in. They do have an English menu.
They have a deal where you can pay 1980 yen for 120 mins of all you can eat gyoza!
Please note that this restaurant tends to have a short line out front between 2pm – 10pm (especially on weekends.)
Kakekomi Gyoza, Shinjuku.
KAKEKOMI GYOZA
新宿区歌舞伎町1-12-2 第58東京ビル 1・2F
GROUND & FIRST FLOOR, DAI-58 TOKYO BUILDING, KABUKICHO, SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY 365 DAYS A YEAR
WHERE IS A SUPERMARKET NEAR &Here SHINJUKU?
Cook-Y is a supermarket just 5 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku. That’s where I bought the ingredients for my chicken pesto pasta (pictured above.) Open 8am-10pm.
See here for my full guide on buying cereal in Japan.
My Basket, Shinjuku 5-Chome
This is a smaller supermarket just 4 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku. It is open 8am-11pm.
Here on the shelf I can see soy milk, almond milk and oat milk.
See here for my guide on buying milk in Japan.
How to get to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneysea from the &Here Shinjuku?
If you are staying at &Here Shinjuku and need to get to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea, I recommend taking a train (takes approx 40 mins, 410 yen per person, 1 train change) or a bus from Shinjuku Busta (Bus Terminal.) This bus terminal is near the New South Exit of Shinjuku Station. The buses take approximately 1 hour and run in the morning and then back from Tokyo Disney Resort in the evening. Bus price is 1000 yen per person.
My full guide on making the most of Tokyo Disneyland with kids is here.
My full guide on making the most of Tokyo Disneysea with kids is here.
WHAT IS NEAR &Here SHINJUKU?
Shinjuku Gyoen is just 7 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku.
Here are some pictures but I have written about this national garden in detail here.
Extra Tip: If you’re looking for an amazing thick, gourmet to eat in or after the park – I recommend a sandwich shop called “&Sandwich.”
It is located just 2 mins walk from the Shinjuku Gyoen Park entrance. They have a dining area with seats for 16 people.
They are open nice and early in the morning too – from 9am on weekdays and 8:30am on weekends.
They have a couple of vegetarian and vegan options too. See here for the “&Sandwich” website and images of their beautiful sandwiches.
This cafe accepts most major credit cards and is a non-smoking establishment.
&SANDWICH
新宿区新宿1-5-7 スキラ御苑 1F
GROUND FLOOR, SKIRA GYOEN BUILDING, 1-5-7 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN WEEKDAYS 9AM-6PM (LAST ORDERS AT 5PM)
OPEN WEEKENDS 8:30AM-6PM (LAST ORDERS AT 5PM)
Another great lunch or dinner option for families near Shinjuku Goen is Cafe La Boheme.( 10 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku.)
This is actually a chain for restaurants but this one is particularly beautiful as it has high ceilings and looks onto so much greenery. The food served here is casual Italian. For an extra 200 yen you can also change any of the pasta dishes for gluten free pasta at Cafe La Boheme in Shinjuku.
If you are coming by train, it is 5 mins from Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station via Exit 2. It is also 12 mins walk from the free children’s Fire Museum and 11 mins walk from the Tokyo Toy Museum. This is a wonderful rainy day option with kids aged 0-5 years of age.
It is best to make a reservation. Although it’s only a couple of options each – there are vegetarian and vegan items on their menu too ( their vegan quinoa and kale salad is so good and they also have some vegan pasta dishes.)
At lunch time I would budget for 2000 yen per adult and 4000 yen for dinner. You can see the entire Cafe La Boheme menu here.
Please note that at dinner time, there is a 800 yen service charge per person. This restaurant does accept most major credit cards – and are a cashless restaurant.
If everyone is tired, these guys are also on ubereats.
CAFE LA BOHEME, SHINJUKU GYOENMAE
新宿区新宿1-1-7コスモ新宿ビル
COSMOS SHINJUKU BUILDING, 1-1-7 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN WEEKDAYS 11:30AM-11PM (LUNCH MENU IS AVAILABLE UNTIL 2PM & BETWEEN 2-5PM THERE IS A PASTA SET AVAILABLE UNTIL THE DINNER MENU KICKS IN)
OPEN WEEKENDS 11AM-11PM
The Fire Museum (7 mins by cab from &Here Shinjuku – or 19 mins on foot.)
The Fire Museum is fabulous for little kids and babies – and it’s free!
I’ve written about the Fire Museum here.
Tokyo Toy Museum – 15 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku or 11 min using public transport.
The Toy Museum is bigger than the toy museum and is SO beautifully done. I recommend this museum for babies – 6 year olds. I have written in detail about the Tokyo Toy Museum here.
WHERE TO EAT NEAR &Here SHINJUKU WITH KIDS?
All Seasons Coffee – 3 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
This coffee shop/cafe is 3 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku and you will pass it on your way to Shinjuku San-chome Station. They don’t take reservations. They do take credit cards. The coffee is American Style Drip Coffee – see the full All Seasons Coffee Shinjuku menu here. As well as coffee, they have some soft drinks, cheesecake and creme caramel style retro puddings.
ALL SEASONS COFFEE SHINJUKU
新宿区新宿2-7-7 寿ビル 1F
GROUND FLOOR, KOTOBUKI BUILDING, 2-7-7 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU-KU
OPEN WEEKDAYS: MIDDAYS-7PM
OPEN WEEKENDS & NATIONAL HOLIDAYS: 10AM-7PM
Starbucks Shinjuku 2-Chome (4 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku)
They are also on ubereats.
Vegan options at Japanese Starbucks include:
(Always need to double check in case they have changed the recipe at all, of course)
-the Sugar Donut
-the Mushroom Keema Curry Hot Tortilla
-the Banana Rice Flour Muffin
-the Blueberry Bagel Sandwich
STARBUCKS SHINJUKU 2-CHOME
新宿2-5-12 FORECAST新宿AVENUE
FORECAST SHINJUKU AVENUE BUILDING, 2-5-12 SHINJUKU
OPEN WEEKDAYS 7AM-10PM (FROM 8AM ON WEEKENDS)
Sukiya is 1 min walk from &Here Shinjuku
Sukiya (fast food chain) serves marinated sukiyaki meat bowls on rice. Open 24 hours a day (they do close for 1 hour between 3am-4am.) This branch has high chairs. See the full Sukiya menu here (they also have curry rice!)
Check out the shopping complex Shinjuku Marui Annex
100 yen store “Seria” (8 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku)
This is my favourite brand of 100 yen store. It’s on the 4th floor and is open from 11am-8pm (from 10:30am on weekends.) Here are the treasures that we bought there recently at the Shinjuku Marui Annex store of Seria.
Within the same Marui Annex Complex are a number of child friendly restaurants ( 8 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku)
Cinnamoroll Themed Cafe
See the Cinnamoroll Cafe menu here. This is a walk-in cafe only so, if you don’t like to wait, arrive around 10:30am.
Shabu Sai (Sukiyaki & Shabu Shabu Restaurant)
*There is a baby room on the 2nd floor of the Marui Annex Shinjuku complex. There is a breastfeeding space, a change table and a boiling water to make formula.
There is a chopstick store on the ground floor of Marui Annex Shinjuku called Hashiyamasaku. They sell chopsticks and can engrave them on the spot. They make for a fabulous Japan souvenir.
On the same floor of the same building – is a Godzilla merch store too.
And they sell limited edition flavours of Japanese sweets here too (also on the ground floor.) For example, the Mt Fuji versions of Alfort cookies.
And just 1 min further along from Marui Annex is the Marui main building. “Marui” = (the logo looks like “OIOI” and on the B1 floor is a specialty supermarket called Bio-Ral. Bio-Ral stocks MANY MANY MANY gluten free and vegan items – including cakes, cookies, gluten-free soy sauce, noodles and pasta, curries etc. *This supermarket stocks a rice flour bread made by a company called “Happy Bakery.” Used google translate to check the ingredients but the purple label usually signifies gluten free items. They also have lots of vegan pasta sauces and curries. There are also lots of delicious vegan soups here. They also sell Oat Milk chocolate.
Pictured here:
Maca Powder & Chia Seeds.
Top Shelf: Coconut Water, 100% Apple Juice, 100% Orange & Mikan Juice, Unsweetened Almond Milk, Original Almond Milk, 100% Carrot Juice.
Middle Shelf: Organic Soy Milk, Soy Milk made with Domestically Grown Soy Beans, Fukuren Soy Milk, Carrot Juice, Alpro Zero Sugar Oat Milk, Unsweetened Almond Milk.
Bottom Shelf: 100% Apple Juice, 100% Orange Juice, 100% Blood Orange Juice, 100% Pink Grapefruit Juice, 100% Pomegranate Juice, Pasteurized Low Fat Cow’s Milk, Pasteurized Cow’s Milk
Top Shelf: Organic Natural Plain Yoghurt, Natural Plain Yoghurt, Organic Natural Blueberry Yoghurt, MIxed Fruit Yoghurt, Unsweetened Probiotic Yoghurt, Honey Yoghurt.
Second Shelf: Soy Yoghurt, Caspian Sea Soy Yoghurt, Coconut Yoghurt – Plain, Organic Natural Yoghurt.
Third Shelf: Homemade Organic Yoghurt, Almond Milk Yoghurt, Coconut Yoghurt- Plain, Greek Yoghurt, Acai.
Bottom Shelf: Smooth Dairy Yoghurt, Smooth Greek Yoghurt.
BIO-RAL SHINJUKU MARUI
新宿3-10-13, マルイ新宿本館 B1
B1 FLOOR, MARUI SHINJUKU’S MAIN BUILDING, 3-30-13 SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-9PM
The Shinjuku Chuo (Central) Park playground is just 9 mins in a taxi from &Here Shinjuku.
This is a great spot for a break from one of the busiest parts of Tokyo.
When looking for the park, I put Shinjuku Chuo Park Children’s Square into google to save you from having to walk from the opposite end of the park etc.
There is a fair amount of shade but I still recommend bringing sunscreen and bug spray.
The breastfeeding and nappy changing space is open from 10:30am-4pm.
There are vending machines and toilets next to the playground (and others on the far side)
The far side of the playground also has this change table, toilet, breastfeeding, wheelchair friendly restroom space. It is open from April-September from 9am‐5pm & October-March 9am-4pm.
There is a decent sized playground and a toddler splash pool in the summer months.
IN 2025: The water splash area is open in July and August.
In the heat of summer, there are misting machines at some benches next to the playground. There is also a security guard who goes around in summer to check the temperature of the slide. Only in Japan!
SHINJUKU CHUO (CENTRAL) PARK
PUT SHINJUKU CHUO PARK CHILDREN’S SQUARE INTO GOOGLE MAPS IN ORDER TO FIND IT
OPEN 24 HOURS
For right after a play in the park, I highly recommend breakfast, a snack or lunch at the‘More Than’ Bakery. It is located literally right on the edge of the park. This bakery also sells many vegan breads and sweets. While here, you’re still 9 mins by cab from &Here Shinjuku.
MORE THAN, BAKERY
新宿区西新宿4-31-1
4-31-1 NISHI-SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 8AM – 6PM
Okonomiyaki – 3 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
If you decide to eat Okonomiyaki but one or more people in your group are Vegan, then I recommend visiting Zen. Zen okonomiyaki shop is open from 5pm-11pm and they have a full English menu and a full English vegan menu. It is 15 minutes walk from theTokyo Toy Museum ( or 8 mins in a cab, approx 800 yen) or 13 mins walk from Takashimaya Times Square. If coming from Shinjuku Station then I recommend taking the subway to Shinjuku-Sanchome Station and then walking for 300 metres. Please note that last time I checked they didn’t have avegan cheese option but that was clearly marked on the menu.
Zen accepts most major credit cards.
Unfortunately the restaurant allows smoking so go early to miss the smoking drinkers.
They have horigotatsu seating as well as counter seating. (Horigotatsu means you are sitting on dug out chairs in the floor – looks like you’re kneeling the table but you are still on a chair.)
It is possible to make a reservation onZen’s English website here.
ZEN OKONOMIYAKI
新宿区新宿5-10-9
5-10-9 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 5PM-11PM
CLOSED MONDAYS
Kushiyaki Skewers – 4 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Just 4 mins from the hotel or just one minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station is Kushiyaki Bistro Fukumimi Shinjuku Branch (exit C6 on the Toei Line, Exit A3 on the Marunouchi Line, Exit A3 on the Fukutoshin Line. In case you’re not familiar, kushiyaki is meat and vegetable- grilled and served on skewers (this includes yakitori.) This restaurant welcomes families (although can get a bit rowdy later in the evening so with small kids I would go earlier rather than later.) The vibes are that of a grungy, bustling foodie pub. It depends on how many skewers you eat, of course, but for a proper adult meal I would expect to budget for around 3000 yen per adult. Aside from skewers there are some small salads, dips and rice dishes available. Kushiyaki Bistro Fukumimi Shinjuku branch accepts most major credit cards. The entire venue is non-smoking. They do accept reservations and also walk-ins.
This restaurant also has space to accommodate strollers.
If you are gluten free in Japan- Yakitori can be a good option. But be sure to ask for it to be prepared with salt, not tare (sauce/marinade as “tare” is made using soy sauce.) This restaurant has a gluten free menu.
KUSHIYAKI BISTRO FUKUMIMI SHINJUKU BRANCH
東京都新宿区新宿3-9-5 ゴールドビル2F
2ND FLOOR, GOLD BUILDING, 3-9-5 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU-KU
OPEN EVERYDAY 4PM-11:30PM (LAST ORDER 10:30PM)
Family-friendly restaurant in Shinjuku : High-End Kobe Beef and Wagyu Yakiniku – 4 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Yakiniku Washino Shinjuku are the most incredible high end yakiniku restaurant. Let them know when you make the reservation if you’re gluten-free as they can accommodate accordingly. This is a wonderful place to try wagyu and Kobe beef. They sell meat as yakiniku or steak. See visual examples of their menu items on the Yakiniku Washino Shinjuku’s instagram here. This restaurant welcomes children in their private tatami rooms (no additional charge, it’s just your own space so you needn’t worry about kids sitting completely still or being really quiet. Since it’s tatami, that means that babies can even do tummy time or nap while you’re eating dinner.) They also have space to store strollers while you dine. They have an English menu. The entire restaurant is non-smoking. Make a reservation for Yakiniku Washino Shinjuku via tablecheck here.
They accept most major credit cards. Please note that this is definitely a special occasion type meal so please budget for approx 17,000 yen per adult for a meal here.
This restaurant is 1 min walk from Exit C6 of Shinjuku Sanchome Station or 12 mins walk from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station.
YAKINIKU WASHINO SHINJUKU HONTEN
新宿区新宿3-11-11ダイアン新宿ビル4F
4F DIANE SHINJUKU BUILDING, 3-11-11 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU-KU
OPEN 5PM-11PM (LAST ORDERS 10PM)
Sukiyaki & Shabu Shabu – 6 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Momo Paradise Shinjuku Meiji Dori
This is a hot pot place and …oh…my god……it gets busy busy busy!!!
They do take reservations but you’ll need to make sure you’re prompt as they will cancel your booking if you’re more than 10 minutes late.
The staff are so sweet to kids and they have high chairs and everything.
You can choose from a variety of nabe (hot pots) and the most popular are sukiyaki or shabu shabu.
We chose sukiyaki. It was 2400 yen per adult for all you can eat meat and vegetables (from the self-serve buffet) for 100 minutes.
My 5 year old’s same meal was 500 yen and my 3 year old, at the time, was completely free.
I recommend using one of your hot plates for cooking and leaving one without a hot pot at all – and sit the kiddies up that end. Then you don’t need to worry little fingers touching hot cooking equipment or boiling hot pot contents. (You’ll need to request this as the staff will automatically set up a hot pot at each end.)
Two pots could be extra handy though if some of your family need to avoid certain foods.
The menus here are in English (and so are cooking instructions!)
If you love this spot, make sure you check out their website below as they have lots of other branches all over Tokyo.
MOMO PARADISE SHINJUKU MEIJI DORI
新宿 3-30-11 新宿高野第二ビル8F
8F SHINJUKU TAKANO DAINI BUILDING, 3-30-11 SHINJUKU
OPEN FOR LUNCH: 11:30AM-3PM
OPEN FOR DINNER: 5PM-11PM
OPEN ON WEEKENDS 11:30-11PM
A Family restaurant with hamburger steaks on sizzling hot plates – some gluten free options – 7 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Bikkuri Donkey Yasukuni Dori is 3 mins from Shinjuku Sanchome Station. The breakfast menu is available 8am-11am. They also have high chairs. The name always makes me laugh as it literally translates to “Surprise Donkey” but the interior is quirky ( kind of like dining inside “Western River Railroad” at Disneyland.). It’s a casual restaurant and lots of families dine here.
The cuisine is “hamburger steaks served on mini hot plates.”
They have a cute kids menu .
It’s a great place for grease and fries if that’s what you’re craving.
The restaurant allows smoking in certain parts of the restaurant at certain times of day. They have a kids menu and they have high chairs.
There is one gluten free hamburger steak option at this restaurant too. I would budget around 1500 yen per adult to dine here.
In the morning, they also offer a breakfast plate with eggs and toast and bacon for approximately 1000 yen.
This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. They also take reservations and walk-ins.
Some Bikkuri Donkey branches have also introduced a vegan soy hamburger steak (served with rice.) It’s usually on the menu down near the kids menu section.
BIKKURI DONKEY, YASUKUNI DORI BRANCH
新宿区新宿5-17-13 オリエンタルウェーブビル
ORIENTAL WEAVE BUILDING, 5-17-13 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 8AM-5AM THE FOLLOWING DAY (LAST ORDERS 4:30AM)
Salads – 8 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
And if you are craving vegetables in Japan, I recommend going to salad bowl restaurant WithGreen in the Shinjuku Sanchome Food Hall. To get here from Shinjuku Station, take exit A2 and walk for 1 min. They have limited seating here so it’s easiest to get a salad to go. See pictures of the WithGreen menu here.
WITHGREEN, SHINJUKU SANCHOME
新宿区新宿3-1-17 山本ビル1F
GROUND FLOOR, YAMAMOTO BUILDING, 3-1-17 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 11AM-9PM
Casual Izakaya -10 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Izakaya chain restaurant Doma Doma, Shinjuku Higashiguchi branch
This casual izakaya welcomes families. The menu is cheap and cheerful. There is no-smoking in the restaurant – although they do have a dedicated enclosed smoking booth. This restaurant is on the 5th floor. Budget between 2000-3000 yen per adult at dinner time here. See some of the Doma Doma menu items here. For kids who aren’t adventurous eaters – they can easily order the edamame, the caesar salad, fries, “fish’n’chips”, mini corn dogs, onion rings, chicken garlic fried rice, mini margherita pizza breads etc.
There is a small extra charge per person here – and in exchange you will be given an otoshi appetizer (if you don’t want to eat it – don’t hand it back – just leave it on the table. The service charge remains though – it’s part of dining at an izakaya.)
Sweet Potato Ice-cream, Doma Doma ice-cream, Grilled Marshmallows with vanilla, Rich Chocolate Mont Blanc,
Mango Frappe, Dragon Fruit Frappe, Almond Frappe.
DOMA DOMA, SHINJUKU HIGASHIGUCHI (EAST EXIT)
新宿区新宿3-20-5 新宿ニューサンパーク 5F
OPEN WEEKDAYS: 5PM-11PM (OPEN UNTIL MIDNIGHT ON FRIDAYS)
OPEN WEEKENDS & NATIONAL HOLIDAYS: 3PM-11:30PM
CLOSED DEC 31-JAN 3
Okonomiyaki – 10 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
If you’re looking to try some okonomiyaki for dinner ( also open for lunch too, actually) then I recommend wandering into the very casual but always bustling pub/restaurant Kotegaeshi. It is only 5 minutes walk from the east exit of Shinjuku Station. You may have to wait outside for a little while to get in so maybe have one adult in the group wait while kids and another adult have a little wander? However, we have been here a few times in the afternoon (outside of traditional meal times) and have had the whole place to ourselves!
There is a staircase up to the restaurant with no elevator- maybe 15 or so steps? You would need to go up to ask them first to see if they had space to store a folded up stroller before your whole family traipses up the staircase.
Okonomiyaki is like a Japanese omelette and you choose the fillings such as meats or seafood or vegetables. They also serve monjayaki. See here for pictures of the full menu at Kotegaeshi.
An adult lunch will be approximately 1000-2000 yen and dinner more like 2000 yen.
Other popular options to eat include yakisoba, which is noodles you cook at your table or you can ask them to prepare in the kitchen for you.
Cook your food in front if you have picky eaters as you can say no to an ingredient before it is added. It’s very visual and it’s fun for kids to get involved. You can choose to self-cook or to have the chef prepare options in the kitchen for you and bring to your table.
This restaurant is very casual. You will be sitting with students who are chilling after university or business teams heading out for a meal after work.
These kinds of meals are meant to be shared but you can order your own if you prefer.
This restaurant does accept credit cards.
They do have an English menu.
I’m probably overthinking it but I think it’s worth mentioning. The chairs here are designed to store your belongings underneath (the cushion part lifts up.) This makes it really easy to pinch little fingers so I recommend putting kids on the bigger bench style chairs instead.
See my tips here on how to order a vegetarian version of okonomiyaki in Japan.
I speak more here about how I keep some restaurant toys in my bag in Japan.
This has become a non-smoking restaurant over the past few years. There is an enclosed booth for smokers.
KOTEGAESHI SHINJUKU
新宿区新宿3-21-9 新宿ダッキープラザビル3Ｆ
3F DUCKY PLAZA BUILDING, 2-21-9 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU-KU
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM – 4AM ( CLOSES 11PM ON SUNDAYS)
KOTEGAESHI WEBSITE
Baby-friendly cafe – 11 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
This cafe Chanoma is located inside of Isetan department store. The seating is designed for little babies to lay on (tummy up or down) and the food is all organic and healthy. They also sell homemade baby food. I don’t recommend this cafe once baby starts crawling or walking – it’s for parents with little babies only. They accept most major credit cards.
CHANOMA SHINJUKU ISETAN
6TH FLOOR OF THE ISETAN SHINJUKU MAIN BUILDING
OPEN EVERYDAY 10AM-8PM
Ramen – 12 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
I don’t recommend this spot for small kids but if you are travelling with kids who are 10+ or are teens, I recommend visiting a ramen restaurant called Ore Ryu Shio Ramen. Shio Ramen means “salt ramen” – as the ramen stock/soup is quiet simple and mild. The tables are filled with different condiments – you can make your ramen spicy or garlic-y or sweeter etc. First thing to do is try the broth and then add as you go. A bowl of ramen here will cost a little under 2000 yen. They sell ramen and tsukemen here. There is also fried chicken and gyoza on the menu here. This is a walk-in restaurant only (no reservations.) Cash only.
They have an English and Japanese menu.See here for instructions on how they recommend you add the condiments and flavours to your ramen.
The restaurant is 3 mins walk from Shinjuku Station (Take the East South Exit). Please note that this is NOT a non-smoking restaurant.
ORE RYU SHIO RAMEN
新宿区新宿3-36-18
3-36-18 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-11PM
Ramen (with a plant-based option)– 13 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
I don’t normally recommend Ippudo on my blog – just because the line can be so long. However, the Shinjuku Lumine Est branch does have a plant based ramen option. So, if that is something you’re after, it may just be worth the wait? (I recommend visiting right at 11am. They can seat 57 people.)
This branch accepts most major credit cards. The restaurant is non-smoking. They welcome children.
To get here, take Shinjuku Station exit A9 and walk for 1 min.
IPPUDO, SHINJUKU LUMINE EST
新宿区新宿3-38-1 ルミネエスト新宿 8F
8F, LUMINE EST SHINJUKU, 3-38-1 SHINJUKU-KU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 11AM-9PM (LAST ORDERS AT 8:30PM)
Simple Salads, Sandwiches, Pasta & Cake restaurant – 13 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Also in the Lumine Est building is the cake store Harbs – on the B2 Floor. They accept most major credit cards. I recommend budgeting 2000 yen per adult to dine here. Children are welcome here. There are no reservations available here so the wait time is long on weekends. On busy days, best to arrive right at 11am. See here for the full menu at Harbs.
HARBS, SHINJUKU LUMINE EST
新宿区新宿3-38-1 ルミネエスト新宿 8F
8F, LUMINE EST SHINJUKU, 3-38-1 SHINJUKU-KU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 11AM-8PM (LAST ORDERS 7PM)
Casual Teppanyaki / Okonomiyaki & Gluten Free Options – 13 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Or if you feel like okonomiyaki or simply a restaurant with lots ofgluten free food in Shinjuku, I recommend going to Teppan Baby.
It’s best to make reservations ahead of time. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards. They have an English, France, Spanish menu. Teppan Baby can cater for vegetarians and gluten free patrons. Teppan Baby is 7 mins walk from the East Exit of Shinjuku Station. If coming on the subway take Exit B3 and walk for 3 mins. This is a non-smoking restaurant. For this restaurant I would budget approx 5000 yen per adult for a full meal (with drinks.). Please note that every customer needs to order one drink (doesn’t have to be alcoholic) when visiting after 6pm.
Read here for how to order a vegetarian version of okonomiyaki
TEPPAN BABY, SHINJUKU EAST EXIT
OPEN MON-SAT: 5PM-5AM
OPEN SUN: 5PM-MIDNIGHT
Ramen – 16 mins walk or 11 mins using public transport from &Here Shinjuku
If it’s ramen you’re keen on… try Afuri . The branch in Shinjuku is inside of Lumine 1 department store ( be careful as there are a few department stores called Lumine in this area. This is “Lumine 1”) on the B2 Basement Floor.
As I mention often – I don’t recommend ramen shops with babies and toddlers. That is a LOT of hot liquid right in front of them – it’s dangerous and the counters are small so there isn’t really anywhere to move the bowl out of reach.
This is a chain store and definitely has a local vibe. It’s a counter around the kitchen and orders are placed on a vending machine out the front. I like the Shoyu (soy sauce) and Shio (Salt) ramen. My kids eat some of mine and have Niku Gohan (Pork pieces on rice). With kiddies, I recommend going before midday so you don’t have to queue and you avoid using up too many seats with little bottoms while grownups line up outside.
A full lunch with a beer will still leave you change from 2000 yen.
I don’t recommend coming to this branch if you have a stroller – no where to store it.
This is chain store so keep your eye out for more Afuri branches ( for eg. Azabu-juban, Ebisu, Roppongi Crossing, Harajuku ) Some of the stores also have a vegan ramen option too. This is one of the few ramen places in Japan that sells chicken ramen – this is handy if you don’t eat pork.
Please note: this store does not accept cash.
AFURI RAMEN, SHINJUKU LUMINE STORE
新宿区西新宿1-1-5ルミネ1 B2F
B2 FLOOR, LUMINE 1, 1-1-5 NISHI-SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY: 11AM-10PM
Please note: this store does not accept cash.
There are actually another 2 Afuri stores in Shinjuku. One in the Shinjuku Sumitomo Building and a Karakurenai (spicy noodle store) version of the Afuri chain is located in Kabukicho.
Pizza – 11 mins using public transport from &Here Shinjuku
If you’re close to the station at lunchtime I recommend 800 Degrees Pizzeria. It’s bright and light and casual and easy. I can imagine it is manic on the weekend so it’s probably best to be waiting at the door when it opens at 11am for lunch.
It’s possible to choose your own toppings or one of the combinations listed on the menu. (Warning : I always go crazy on the toppings and forget that they all cost extra and once walked away with a 2800 yen pizza.
800 DEGREES PIZZERIA
GROUND FLOOR, NEWOMAN DEPARTMENT STORE
5 -24-55 SENDAGAYA, SHIBUYA
渋谷区千駄ヶ谷5-24-55
OPEN: 11am-11pm
800 DEGREES PIZZERIA MENU
Just near this restaurant or if you’re coming from the Shinjuku Express Way Bus Terminal or are exiting Shinjuku Station via the Miraina Tower exit, I recommend stopping at bakery Le Pain de Joel Robuchon. Open 8am-9pm (closes at 8:30pm on Sundays.) They take credit card here. All breads and pastries are made on site. There is a cafe just across from the bakery but we like to take away and sit in Shinjuku Gyoen gardens etc.
The bakery tray space is quite small so I recommend one parent going in without kids to choose the bakery items (also don’t need to worry about kids touching the breads then either.)
If your kids like plain breadsticks or crossaints – they are also sold here.
A Gourmet Food Hall – 11 mins using public transport from &Here Shinjuku
Directly around the opposite side of the same building is the Newoman Food Hall . There are so many beautiful eateries inside and it has a range of different types of food and it’s just such a beautiful use of space. In other words – it feels special for grown ups too.
The hall is made up of lots of separate restaurants: an Oyster Bar (I’ve seen a few parents pull their strollers right up to the Oyster Bar seating while dining with a napping baby here), High-end Sushi, Butcher & Beer counter, Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura (this place has great coffee too by the way) and a stunning restaurant called “Tavern on S” at the back.
The entire hall is completely non-smoking until 11pm.
Children are welcome anytime before 11pm but the hall is full of officeworkers and hand-holding daters in the evening so lunch just feels a little more appropriate with kids -but that’s your call.
The Tavern on S next to the murals has free wifi.
NEWOMAN FOOD HALL
新宿区新宿4-1-6
4-1-6 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY 11AM-11PM
DEPARTMENT STORE WEBSITE
You can rent a stroller to use within the Newoman department store on the 4th floor.
On the ground floor of the NeWoman complex, you may also want to grab a matcha latte at The Matcha Tokyo. 100% organic Matcha. They accept most major credit cards and all food and drink items are under 1000 yen. There are only 6 seats here so it is probably best to get it to go.
THE MATCHA TOKYO
新宿区新宿4-1-6
4-1-6 SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 10AM-9PM (UNTIL 8:30PM ON SUNDAYS & NATIONAL HOLIDAYS)
An amazing department store – 13 mins walk or 4 mins in a taxi from &Here Shinjuku
Shopping in Takashimaya Times Square is an experience in itself. Try the basement floor food hall. It’s truly spectacular. There is also a kit kat stall with a selection of usual kit kat flavours.
A bit random but if you’re wondering where to buy gluten free soy sauce in Tokyo? The basement of Takashimaya is your answer.
The 9th floor is the Children’s Floor. There are some very pricey clothing items but the toy section is great fun and has a small area where children can try out some of the toys on sale.
There is also a small baby playspace on this floor too (next to the ‘Familiar’ store.) My children, as always, love the Disney and the Hello Kitty Store.
How about a haircut, in a car, holding a bus, watching a show about trains?! Yes??!!!
The children’s hair salon, Zusso ‘s stylists are seriously talented. They somehow manage to style children’s hair like a trendy fashion model. Best to book ahead, take a picture of what you’d like, tell them what kind of thing your child is into so they can set up the dvd player accordingly (ie. trains, mickey mouse, princess…etc) and choose a salon vehicle!! (Just a heads up : this experience is adorable but be ready to pay 4000 yen for the pleasure. ) The salon is on the 9th floor of Takashimaya in Shinjuku.
And the hairdressers whipped up this braid on my little girl in Just a few minutes! So clever!
ZUSSO KIDS, TAKASHIMAYA TIMES SQUARE
5-24-2 SENDAGAYA, SHIBUYA
渋谷区千駄ヶ谷
OPEN: 10AM-7PM
WEBSITE
Takashimaya Times Square actually has some incredible restaurants with fantastic family-friendly dining options.
I have compiled these into a separate blog post. Remember, another advantage to eating lunch or dinner here is also all the kid-friendly (and baby friendly) toilets and change rooms within the building too. See here for our favourite family friendly restaurants in Takashimaya Times Square, Shinjuku.
Please see here for my favourite places to eat with kids at Takashimaya Times Square, Shinjuku.
Options include tempura and italian food as well as kids meal options and restaurants with high chairs.
And if you’re looking to buy unique souvenirs, I highly recommend taking a walk through Hands (formerly known as Tokyu Hands) that is still inside Takashimaya.
I love the stationery section in Hands (formerly known as Tokyu Hands) – especially as I love beautiful cards.
Many of these also play songs.
They also sell regular old tourist postcards here.
See more christmas related things for when spending christmas in Japan here.
And then, the food hall floor is truly spectacular (even just for a walk through if you’re not hungry!)
There is traditional food – amazing kit-kat flavours, salads, soups.
My little boy loves the karage (fried chicken).
I just recently found veggie gyoza (spinach and cabbage) at one of the counters. The name of that shop is ‘Yokohama China Town’s Heichinrou.’For hard core veggies, the guy in the shop did tell me the gyozas were cooked on the same plate as the meat options – so be warned if the idea of this is not for you.
And one of my favourite cheat meals is to buy a salad and a few of the pizza/foccacia breads from the Italian bakery counter.
And if you like really ‘interesting/gourmet’ sandwiches, there is a shop here for you ! Note the options like ‘Grapes & Cream’ ‘Fried Salmon Roe & Cheese’, ‘Potato & Minced Meat.’
And if you or your kids need some fresh air, take the elevator up to the 13th floor. This is where many of the sit down restaurants are located but there is also a rooftop garden.
Shopping for Clothing – 11 mins by train from &Here Shinjuku
For clothing or accessory shopping, I recommend visiting Department Store Lumine Est in Shinjuku (it’s connected to the station and is across from the famous 3D Cat Billboard.)
Put “3D Cat Cross Shinjuku Space” into google maps to find this 3D billboard easily. It often means walking through the underpass under the train lines – google maps will help get you there.
A really great place to buy good quality souvenirs in Shinjuku is the Beams F Shinjuku Store. There are floors and floors of beautiful gift options.
Toy Shopping & Gifts for Children – 10 mins by train from &Here Shinjuku
If you’re shopping and need other places to entertain children in the meantime, I recommend the Keio Department Store in West Shinjuku. The 7th floor has a fantastic toy section with lots of toys to touch and play with (the toys are considerably cheaper than Takashimaya too.) There is also a small play space that would keep toddlers happy. This department store also lends out strollers to customers (for use in within the Keio Department store only).
I bought these bath bombs (called Bath Balls in Japan) on the toy floor. They have a little toy inside. I’ve included these bath bombs in my Japan gift suggestion for kids.
If you are needing to buy kids shoes and you are in Shinjuku – I recommend jumping on a train to Koenji (they have adults shoes too – but adult shoes are easier to buy everywhere) then I recommend going to ABC-MART KIDS – the Koenji branch. It is two mins walk from the South Exit of Koenji Station.
ABC MART KIDS, KOENJI
杉並区高円寺南4-25-6
4-25-6 KOENJI-MINAMI, SUGINAMI
OPEN EVERYDAY 11:30AM-8PM
Dinner with kids in Shinjuku- 13 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
For an easy dinner option, close to JR Shinjuku Station, is The Dancing Crab restaurant in Shinjuku. It’s a New Orleans themed seafood restaurant chain that started in Singapore and has branched out into Japan too (Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka.) A friend tells me that there are two in Indonesia now as well.
The vibe is similar to “Bubba Gump” or even a bit like “Hard Rock” (and..dare I say it…”Hooters”?)
It’s a non-smoking restaurant (although… to my disappointment ) there is smoking area just outside the entrance which can mean a smokey wait if a table isn’t available straight away (you can leave the premises until your table is ready if you have a contactable phone number to leave with the wait staff.)
All diners are given crab headbands to wear in the restaurants.
Even if one of your family members aren’t completely crazy about seafood there are other options like fries, chicken and ribs.
They roll out a giant plastic table cloth and the food is served right onto the table, designed to share – bibs provided and all.
However, note that if you’re looking for a quiet family dinner this may not be your best option. Lots of pop music and the staff often perform a little dance. It’s good fun, is lovely and clean, has a pretty big menu and free wifi. Cocktails etc for the Mummies & Daddies too. Full menu on their website.
DANCING CRAB, SHINJUKU
東京都新宿区新宿3-37-12 新宿NOWAビル 2F
2F SHINJUKUNOWA BUILDING, 3-37-12 SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY, LUNCH 11:30AM-3:30PM, DINNER 5PM-11:30PM (LAST ORDERS AT 10:30PM)
WEBSITE
Izakaya /Japanese fusion – 11 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
One of my favourite family friendly restaurant in this area is definitely Kichiri Mollis. I wrote about their Ebisu counterpart in my Ebisu with Kids post too. They are a chain of Japanese fusion izakaya restaurants in Japan and most of them are kid-friendly – especially this one in Shinjuku.
Kichiri has such yummy food and a grown up vibe but it is also good for kids. Even small babies,in fact, as staff will organize a seat with a large cushion backing so babies could even get in some “tummy-time” while you eat!
Kichiri is a chain of restaurants so, if you’re a fan, you can keep an eye out for them all over Japan. I would call the food ‘Japanese fusion’. The menu is in English.
The restaurant’s interior is minimal, chic and futuristic. I love it!
I recommend making a booking (especially if there are more than 2 of you.) Please note that tables are only available for 2 hour seatings – and last orders to be placed 30 mins prior to those 2 hours coming to an end.
Once you enter the restaurant, shoes go in a locker and you hang on to your key….
then you’ll be shown to your table….
After you’ve placed your order, your waiter will bring you an “otoshi” which is a tiny appetizer of the day. It’s probably best to think of this as a compulsory “table charge.” (This is standard practice in Japanese Izakaya Pubs)
The menu has so many options and their seasonal specials are also full of table theatrics. There is also a children’s plate that usually has rice, a hamburger pattie, some vegetables and a small serving of fries.
It looks quite fancy inside but I think it’s pretty reasonable. With drinks and ordering a few dishes each , I’d probably budget for 4000 yen per person? (way less for children, of course) There are also course menu options. There are other Kichiri’s all over Tokyo. For example: Ebisu, Ikebukuro, Ginza & Shibuya.
KICHIRI MOLLIS
新宿3-26-13新宿中村屋ビル6F
6th FLOOR, SHINJUKU NAKAMURAYA BUILDING, 3-26-13 SHINJUKU
OPEN EVERYDAY (EXCEPT AROUND THE NEW YEAR HOLIDAY PERIOD)
LUNCH: 11AM-3PM
AFTERNOON TEA: 3PM-5PM
DINNER: 5PM – MIDNIGHT
WEBSITE
Kichiri Shinjuku West is another fantastic option when looking for a dinner option when in Shinjuku with kids. It is just 200 metres from Shinjuku Station, West Exit.
The food is Japanese/Italian-fusion at this Kichiri though. For adults I would budget approximately 5000 yen. This restaurant accepts most major credit cards and it does also takes reservations. The entire venue is non-smoking. You can see the Kichiri Shinjuku West menu online here.
KICHIRI SHINJUKU WEST
新宿区西新宿1-10-2, 110 ビル8F
8TH FLOOR, 110 BUILDING, 1-10-2 NISHI-SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU-KU
OPEN 5PM-11PM (LAST ORDER AT 10PM)
Please see my article here on how to go about making a reservation for a restaurant in Japan when the website doesn’t have an English website option.
Standing Sushi Restaurant – 9 mins by train from &Here Shinjuku
Tachi Sushi Yokocho Shinjuku Nishiguchi is a fabulous option. It is 5 mins walk from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station. They welcome children here and the restaurant gives the most beautiful traditional Japanese restaurant vibes. They have more than 65 different sushi plate options. Because it’s a standing sushi bar, it’s a great place to try a few things without having to commit to a full meal. There are a few tables. Ask your hotel to make a reservation on your behalf and you can request a table if you like- there are limited options though. All 65 sushi plate options are between 130-400 yen. For kids who aren’t feeling super adventurous right away, you can order just cooked egg sushi, fried shrimp sushi, cooked egg on its own. They also have sushi platters. Their takeout sushi platters are incredibly beautifully presented – so gorgeous. They do take reservations and they also accept most major credit cards. If one parent wants to venture out in the evening to try some sushi and maybe meet some locals – this is great spot. This is a fabulous way to try different types of sake and other alcoholic drinks in Japan – while also being in a family-friendly spot. See here if you would like to find more restaurants in Tokyo you can visit with kids but also try some different types of sake.
TACHI SUSHI YOKOCHO SHINJUKU NISHIGUCHI
新宿区西新宿1-18-13 近江ビル 1F
GROUND FLOOR, 1-18-13 NISHISHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN 11:30-10:30PM
Spotting the Giant Godzilla Head – 12 mins walk from &Here Shinjuku
Another idea for during the day (even first thing in the morning) or night is to go and see the Giant Godzilla in Shinjuku. He can be seen from the intersection with the Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Store on the corner. The statue is well lit at night too.
This intersection is 9 minutes walk from the JR Shinjuku Station South Entrance.
and while you’re here. Pop into Don Quijote for this box of a big selection of kit-kats.
DON QUIJOTE SHINJUKU EAST EXIT HEAD OFFICE STORE
新宿区歌舞伎町1-16-15
1-16-5 KABUKICHO, SHINJUKU
OPEN 24 HOURS
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower – 7 mins in a cab from &Here Shinjuku (or 16 mins on foot)
One of the newest additions to Shinjuku is KABUKICHO TOWER
This complex has a cinema, bars and restaurants, a whole section for gachapon and another for crane games (they are about 3 times more expensive than other places so be aware that you’re paying for the new-ness and the vibes.)
At nighttime, this complex gets a bit “nightclubby” so I don’t recommend visiting with children after 7pm but it’s up to you.
If you are looking for a rainy day Shinjuku with kids option:
Consider seeing a movie at 109 Premium Cinemas in Kabukicho Tower. The seats are big and comfy and all you can eat drink and popcorn included in your movie ticket price!
You can also purchase an S class ticket that gives you access to the premium lounge afterwards – which includes a free alcoholic drink.
These movie theaters do not accept cash.
If you’re ever worried how to work out which movies are in English with Japanese subtitles and which are dubbed… see my Movies in Japan blog post here.
Here is the movie schedule for this cinema within the Kabukicho Tower complex.
Note that this area is Kabukicho and known as Tokyo’s red light district (although much more tame than other red light districts around the world – but still, you may see some “massage parlour” type signs ) but if you feel like venturing around the corner from Godzilla, there is an amusement centre called GAO (it’s right next to the old Robot Restaurant location.) I recommend this place solely for it’s Mario Cart Game. The machine takes a picture of your face so you “become” any of the Mario Bros Characters. 1 play is 200 yen and if you put the money in at the same time you can play against the person next to you.
You’ll see from the pictures below that I was not so good at getting my face in the frame when the picture was taken. My sister , however? A pro!
You might want to know ahead of time, this is NOT a non-smoking venue. We went at 11:30AM and a man was smoking up a storm right behind us.
This game centre is 9 minutes walk from the JR Shinjuku South Entrance.
GAO, KABUKI-CHO STORE
新宿区歌舞伎町1-6-8
1-6-8 KABUCHI-CHO, SHINJUKU
OPEN 10AM-MIDNIGHT
Street food – 15 mins walk or 11 mins by train from &Here Shinjuku
If you want to be in the thick of it (I want to say with the locals but it’s also touristy these days) I find Piss Alley (part of Omoide Yokocho – sometimes also referred to as “Memory Lane” ) to be fine with kids early in the night. It’s a lane way lined with lots of little eateries – mostly yakitori or grilled seafood and veg. This is not the place to ask for menu alterations etc. What is there is there. It’s not a particularly lovely place to be but I know most people have seen it on social media and want to see it for themselves – and I get that.
With kids I would only go between 4pm-6pm. Staying longer means you’re going to struggle to get seats but also will run into more drunk people (it’s near Kabuki-cho, the red light district – which is pretty much the only place in Japan I really don’t like to go with my kids.)
One tip with kids – don’t go to the bathroom here – go to a big department store close by instead – for example Lumine.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains some affiliate links. If you purchase something or book accommodation through one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Just next to Omoide yokocho is this conveyor belt sushi option with the video games.
A sushi train with video games
This Sushiro branch is the Sushiro, Shinjuku Nishiguchi Store (on the 6th floor of the Uniqlo building.).
I recommend visiting between meal times if you can OR first thing in the morning (11am on weekends) to avoid having to wait.
Just a warning – the games appear after you’ve ordered a certain number of plates (every 4-5 plates or so) but they only last for a few sections. So best to get kids to take turns and warn them that it will be very quick.
If you order from the kids section of the menu, you will get a gatchapon coin for kids to use on the gatchapon machines within the restaurant. The entire restaurant is non-smoking.
They accept most major credit cards here. I recommend budgeting 3000 yen per adult for a meal here. It is 3 mins walk from Shinjuku Station (the west side.)See the full Sushiro menu here. Sushiro is great for gluten free diners as they have an allergen menu.
Please note that Sushiro technically doesn’t have any truly vegan sushi options as they use fish extract-vinegar – you may want to look at alternative sushi train restaurants if this is a deal breaker for you.
SUSHIRO, SHINJUKU NISHI-GUCHI
新宿区西新宿1-1-1 新宿パレットビル 6F
6F SHINJUKU PALETTE BUILDING, 1-1-1 NISHI-SHINJUKU, SHINJUKU
OPEN WEEKDAYS 11AM-11PM
OPEN WEEKENDS 10:30AM-11PM
See here for even more family-friendly options in Shinjuku.
