Posted May 12, 2025

Hidden Gems in Tokyo

Destinations

In the heart of Tokyo, Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo blends bold design with refined comfort across 151 stylish rooms, three meeting and event spaces, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Just steps from the world’s busiest train station and the vibrant energy of the Shinjuku district, the hotel is perfectly placed for exploring one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Despite its electric surroundings, Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo offers an unexpected sense of calm. Unwind with a cocktail on the rooftop terrace bar or retreat to your room, where edgy, design-forward touches meet thoughtful luxuries.

Welcome to Tokyo. (Photo Credit: Ryoji Iwata)

Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo’s design-forward style bring together bold Japanese aesthetics and cozy comfort — just steps from the city’s vibrant core.

Let Kimpton be your home away from home in Tokyo.

Dining at Kimpton Shinjuku is anything but ordinary: District, the hotel’s modern brasserie, offers an indoor-outdoor experience with elevated fare and evening drinks. And The Jones, a New York-style deli café, is perfect for everything from morning espressos to afternoon craft beers.

Once you’ve recharged, venture out to nearby gems like Yoyogi Park or take in panoramic city views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. With Kimpton’s signature style and Tokyo’s dynamic spirit, this is omotenashi — the Japanese spirit of wholehearted hospitality — redefined.

Venture Around Shinjuku

More than three and a half million people stream through Shinjuku Station every day, making it not only the busiest transport hub in the world, but also an unbeatable home base for exploring Tokyo. Situated at the crossroads of a dozen train and subway lines — with direct connections to both of the city’s major airports — Shinjuku offers effortless access to every corner of the capital and beyond.

Discover Tokyo’s nightlife scene, one intimate microbar at a time. (Photo Credit: Redd Francisco)

Yet it’s what lies just beyond the platforms that gives Shinjuku its soul. Winding alleyways known as yokocho have long served as after-hours havens for Tokyo’s white-collar workers. Take Omoide Yokocho, for example — a street barely wide enough for two, but brimming with smoky yakitori stalls, flickering lanterns, and the aroma of sizzling skewers.

Across the station, the legendary Golden Gai packs a labyrinth of microbars into its tight-knit alleys — each one barely big enough for a dozen patrons, yet each offering a wholly distinct vibe.

Escape the buzz of Tokyo with a stroll through the peaceful paths of Shinjuku Gyoen. (Photo Credit: Nelemson Guevarra)

For a change of pace, head around the corner to the sleek Isetan department store, whose basement-level depa-chika is often hailed as one of the best in Tokyo. Part gourmet food court, part culinary wonderland, it’s the perfect place to grab a bento box or handcrafted pastry before strolling to nearby Shinjuku Gyoen. This serene, meticulously landscaped park offers a tranquil escape from the city’s pulse — ideal for an impromptu picnic or moment of zen.

Modern Yet Traditional Culture

Though it’s only served as Japan’s capital since 1603, all paths have led here ever since — making it an ideal place to experience the full spectrum of Japanese culture, from timeless rituals to cutting-edge innovation. And with its dazzling skyline and non-stop energy, it fully lives up to its reputation as the largest urban area on Earth.

Step back in time by visiting the grand Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa. (Photo Credit: Pen Ash)

To step back in time, wander the quiet lanes of Yanesen — three historic neighborhoods on the city’s northern edge that miraculously survived the Meireki Fire, the Great Kantō Earthquake, and WWII air raids. In the east, the grand Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa and the neighboring Kuramae district offer glimpses of Edo-era charm, while to the west, the Meiji Shrine stands in quiet reverence, a spiritual heart amid the capital’s hustle.

When you’re ready to pivot to the future, dive into Tokyo’s most dynamic districts — from Kimpton’s stylish perch in Shinjuku to the neon-soaked streets of Shibuya and Roppongi, where the city pulses into the early morning hours. Tokyo consistently ranks as one of the world’s safest cities, with a transit system that’s not just reliable — it’s practically an art form.

Unmatched Gastronomy

For the uninitiated, “Japanese food” might call to mind sushi, ramen, or tempura — but those iconic dishes are merely the surface of a vast and flavorful culinary landscape. Have you tried tsukemono (delicately fermented pickles)? Or monjayaki, Tokyo’s sizzling, savory answer to okonomiyaki? The latter is a must-try local specialty, and you’ll find an entire street dedicated to it in the Tsukishima neighborhood.

From Michelin-starred sushi to sizzling monjayaki, Tokyo’s flavors are as bold as its skyline. (Photo Credit: Alison Pang)

Tokyo is the place to follow your palate — wherever it may lead. (Photo Credit: Kris Sevinc)

In Japan, food isn’t just a meal — it’s a passion, deeply tied to the seasons, regions, and centuries of craft. And there’s no better place to taste the full spectrum than Tokyo. With more Michelin stars than any other city on Earth and over 100,000 dining establishments, Tokyo is a gastronomic playground for the endlessly curious.

Feeling thirsty? Tokyo’s bar scene is just as rich and varied. From intimate whiskey dens and refined cocktail lounges to sake bars and shōchū-focused izakayas, the city has a libation for every palate. Craft beer and natural wine have carved out thriving niches, too. And for caffeine lovers, Tokyo’s third-wave coffee scene is second to none — look to tucked-away neighborhoods like Oku-Shibuya and Yoyogi-Uehara for some of the city’s most exciting brews.

Shopping for Everyone

As if Tokyo’s endless dining options weren’t tempting enough, the city’s reputation as a global fashion capital is equally poised to lighten your wallet. Stroll down the luxe, tree-lined boulevard of Omotesando for flagship fashion houses and sleek architecture, then slip into Harajuku, where avant-garde street style reigns supreme. For something a little more eclectic, hop a train to Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s beloved second-hand and vintage haven.

The mirrored steps in Omotesando are as photogenic as they are unforgettable. (Photo Credit: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos)

Not into fashion? No problem. Pop-culture enthusiasts can lose themselves in the neon maze of Akihabara, a paradise for anime, gaming, and tech lovers. Meanwhile, culinary pros and home cooks alike will be in heaven exploring Kappabashi, also known as “Kitchen Town,” where you’ll find everything from handcrafted Japanese knives to the perfect ramen bowl.

Whatever your passion, Tokyo’s got it in spades — and then some.

Where to stay: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo

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