Shinjuku Guide

When you come to Japan, many people want to make the most of their trip and see as much of the country as possible. A good plan for exploring Tokyo is waking up early in the morning and heading to a tourist destination before going to Shinjuku and doing some shopping. In this article, we’d like to introduce you to some spots that are great for a short day trip from Shinjuku. Each place has its own unique vibe, so take the Odakyu Line to each spot and explore!

Shimokitazawa, the Coolest Part of Tokyo

Shimokitazawa is known as a hub for alternative subcultures in Tokyo. Located in Tokyo’s Setagaya Ward, this town has a retro feel while remaining hip and stylish. It’s only a 10-minute train ride away from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Line.

There are many theaters, small concert halls, and galleries in this town known for being the birthplace of contemporary culture. You can find many unique shops, including used book stores with the selection handpicked by the shop owner, stylish second-hand clothing stores, as well as record shops.



Shimokitazawa is also known for its food. Look out for sweets shops offering treats to-go, stylish soup curry restaurants, fashionable cafés, as well as traditional restaurants serving Japanese teishoku meals.

Noborito and Mukogawa-Yuen – Filled with Nature and History

Noborito and Mukogawa-Yuen are located in Kawasaki City in Kanagawa, a 20-minute train ride from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Line. You can find the Tama River surrounded by nature, parks with tons of green space such as Ikuta Ryokuchi, sites of historical importance, and places to try Japanese handicrafts. There are also many famous cafes and restaurants in the area. This is not an area well-known for sightseeing, but if you’re looking for something off the beaten path, then spending the day in this Japanese suburb may be perfect for you.



Kawasaki City is where Doraemon creator Fujiko F. Fujio lived for a long time, so the Fujiko F. Fuji Museum is in the city near Ikuta Ryokuchi, a huge park in the area. Ikuta Ryokuchi hosts green space as well as several museums, including the Taro Okamoto Museum of Art, a museum dedicated to the famous sculptor. The Japan Open-air Folk House Museum and the Kawasaki Municipal Science Museum are also inside the park. Be sure to check out the Matsugatayama Observation Deck as well, which offers a view of central Tokyo and Yokohama. See the plum and cherry blossoms in the spring, the hydrangeas in the summer, and the maples along with the spectacular dawn redwood in the fall and enjoy the park all year round!

Machida – Experience the Charms of Everyday Life

A 30-minute train ride from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Line, Machida is located in the south of Tokyo and is home to many tourist attractions. There are a department store and shopping street near the station, as well as parks with natural beauty and waterside areas. You can visit a squirrel park, enjoy the cherry blossoms and fall colors, try printmaking, and explore shrines in Machida, before ending the trip with a delicious meal at a small restaurant. Machida is a town where many anime are set, so you can also pick up anime goods there as well.

Shinjuku’s central location in Tokyo allows people to go and explore another part of town without hassle. We recommend choosing a hotel in Shinjuku so you can hop on the Odakyu Line any time and explore another part of the city easily!