Shinjuku Guide

In America and European countries, it is often not permitted to smoke indoors. In Japan however, there are designated smoking areas outside, as well as smoking booths indoors. In many areas in Japan you are not permitted to walk while smoking or nor are you allowed to throw your cigarette butt away on the ground. Be careful – you may be fined if you break the rules. In Japan, if you want to stop for a cigarette break, look for a smoking area. In this article we will introduce you to six smoking areas around Shinjuku Station - three outdoor and three indoor.

1) Smoking Area Outside of the Odakyu Department Store, near the West Exit of Shinjuku Station

This smoking area is just a 10 second walk away from the West Exit of Odakyu Shinjuku Station. This large space is visible from the exit, and has four large cigarette receptacles. There usually are a large number of smokers using this space.

2) The Second Smoking Spot Near the West Exit of Shinjuku Station

There is another smoking area near the West Exit of Shinjuku Station – the official name is “the second smoking spot”! As a lot of people use the previously introduced area this one is a bit more of a “secret spot”, though it is still easily accessible. As soon as you leave the west exit, cross the pedestrian bridge and you’ll be there.

3) Shinjuku Station’s East Exit Smoking Area

If you exit from Shinjuku Station’s East Exit, keep to the left and you will find your way to this smoking area. If you go out of the west exit, make your way to Omoide Yokocho and go through the tunnel seen in the image above. Once you exit on the other side, the smoking area will be on your right.



There are large cigarette receptacles in this spacious smoking area. There are lots of people who use this as a meeting spot when getting together with their friends.

Get Your Fix Even if it's Raining! Indoor Smoking Spots Around Shinjuku Station.

4) Shinjuku Mylord 8F Smoking Area

There is a smoking area on the eighth floor of the Shinjuku Mylord Department Store, which is the floor with many restaurants. An elevator connects directly to this floor from the South Exit of Shinjuku Station, so this is a spot that is easy to get to. You can use this smoking area from 11AM to 11PM.



The space is a bit compact; however this is the perfect spot to have a smoke while enjoying a tasty meal.

5) Smoking Area Under the Viaduct Near Shinjuku Station’s South-East Exit

When you exit from JR Shinjuku Station’s South-East Exit, head straight down the escalator. You will see a smoking area with a stylish glass and faux wood exterior near the tourist information center.



There are plenty of large cigarette receptacles and a drink vending machine as well. You can use this smoking area from 6:00AM-12:00AM.

6) Lumine 1’s 7th floor Smoking Area

The last smoking area we would like to introduce you to is located on the 7th floor of the Lumine 1 Department Store. This large space is surrounded by greenery, so you can feel relaxed when having a smoke.



There is a ladies only smoking area on the seventh floor as well! These areas can be used from 11 AM to 11 PM.

When you are in Japan, please make sure to follow the rules and find a smoking area before lighting up. Use this article to help you find smoking areas when you’re in the busy metropolis of Shinjuku!