Shibuya—especially its world-famous, iconic “Scramble Crossing” intersection—has traditionally been known as the place for young people to shop, people-watch, and go clubbing.
Whereas its “big brother” a few stops to the north on the Yamanote Line, Shinjuku, which is also the world’s busiest train station, facilitating more than 3.6 million passengers per day, has generally been considered to be an iconic office district known for its skyscrapers—with, of course, the exception of its infamous Kabukicho nightlife district.
Both city centers are undergoing significant redevelopment projects, offering abundant opportunities for work and leisure…but which is better? The answer to that question is a matter of personal preference, but let’s examine what both cities within a city offer in terms of living, dining, nightlife, and more.
Living
When considering residential options, first it is important to realize that “Shibuya” encompasses not only a major train and subway station but also one of Tokyo’s 13 wards, known as “ku” in Japanese.
While the bustling Scramble Crossing and extensive shopping arcades may come to mind when picturing Shibuya, it’s important to note that quiet, upscale neighborhoods and modern office complexes are also characteristic of Shibuya-ku.
You can say the same thing about Shinjuku, meaning both the giant train station and its surrounding ku. Most of the 250,000+ residents of Shibuya-ku do not live right around Shibuya Station. Similarly, most of the 340,000+ residents of Shinjuku-ku do not live right near Shinjuku Station.
While high-rise apartments near Shibuya Station are an option, Shibuya-ku boasts some of Tokyo’s most exclusive residential areas, including:
- Hiroo (広尾): Situated in the southeastern part of Shibuya-ku, Hiroo is favored by expatriates and affluent Japanese families for its spacious, luxurious homes and proximity to international schools.
- Shoto (松濤): Nestled in the northwestern part of Shibuya-ku, Shoto is renowned for its picturesque tree-lined streets, chic cafes, upscale dining establishments, and elegant residences.
- Tomigaya (富谷): Located in the southwestern part of Shibuya-ku, Tomigaya is a tranquil, upscale neighborhood popular among families and expats. Its notable features include spacious homes and convenient access to an underground expressway called the “Tomigaya IC,” which makes it convenient for car owners.
- Sarugakucho (猿楽町) and Daikanyama (代官山): Forming an exclusive enclave in the eastern part of Shibuya-ku, Sarugakucho is renowned for its high-end residences and trendy cafes, while Daikanyama exudes a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of Brooklyn, New York, with its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. Together, they offer a sought-after living experience in Tokyo’s cityscape.
All four of these neighborhoods are highly sought-after addresses in Tokyo. These areas are home to many “captains of industry” as well as famous television entertainers who want to live near where they work.
Shinjuku-ku also boasts a range of premium housing options in the heart of Tokyo, including:
- Nishi-Shinjuku (西新宿): Situated in the western part of Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku is a bustling business district adorned with high-end hotels and office towers. Despite its commercial prominence, the area offers numerous upscale apartments for rent and condominiums for purchase, characterized by modern architecture and an urban ambiance.
- Kagurazaka (神楽坂): Kagurazaka is a quaint residential neighborhood in the eastern part of Shinjuku renowned for its charming, traditional Japanese streetscapes and upscale dining establishments. This exclusive enclave is home to several luxury residences and townhouses.
- Yotsuya (四ツ谷): Boasting a mini-city center and residential neighborhood in the southern part of Shinjuku-ku, Yotsuya appeals to expatriates and high-net-worth individuals seeking a tranquil yet upscale lifestyle. The area features spacious, luxurious homes and hosts several prestigious international schools.
- Ichigaya (市ヶ谷): Ichigaya is a residential neighborhood located in the southeastern part of Shinjuku-ku. It is a quiet and upscale area that is popular among families and expatriates. The area is home to several luxury residences and townhouses, as well as several prestigious universities.
Overall, while Shinjuku-ku may not be known for its exclusive residential areas, there are several neighborhoods within the ward that offer a more upscale and luxurious lifestyle—all fairly close to most of the business city centers in the middle of Tokyo.
Dining
There are literally thousands of places to eat in both Shibuya-ku and Shinjuku-ku, many of which are Michelin star-rated.
Both Shibuya-ku and Shinjuku-ku boast literally thousands of dining options, many of which hold Michelin star ratings.
In Shibuya-ku, diners can explore a diverse culinary landscape, ranging from casual street food vendors to upscale fine dining establishments. Here are a few notable examples:
- Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブル): Shibuya Crossing is one of the most famous intersections in the world, and it is surrounded by a variety of dining options. There are plenty of street vendors selling delicious Japanese snacks like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, as well as casual restaurants serving Japanese favorites like ramen and udon.
- Dogenzaka (道玄坂): Dogenzaka is a neighborhood located just south of Shibuya Station, and it is home to several popular dining options. The area is known for its izakayas, which are casual Japanese pubs that serve a variety of small plates and drinks.
- Harajuku (原宿): Harajuku is a neighborhood located just north of Shibuya-ku, and it is a popular destination for trendy fashion and dining. The area is known for its cute and colorful cafes, as well as its street food vendors selling unique treats like rainbow cotton candy and crepes.
- Nonbei Yokocho (のんべい横丁): Nonbei Yokocho is a narrow alleyway located just west of Shibuya Station, and it is home to several traditional Japanese bars and restaurants. The area has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, and it is a great place to try some local sake and traditional Japanese dishes.
Overall, Shibuya-ku has something to offer for everyone when it comes to dining. Whether you’re looking for casual street food or upscale fine dining, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Similarly, you won’t be short of options when trying to get a bite to eat in Shinjuku-ku. Here are some areas to scout out:
- Omoide Yokocho (思い出横丁): Take a walk down “memory lane” in Omoide Yokocho (directly translates as “memory alley”), a narrow alleyway located just north of Shinjuku Station. It is home to several small and cozy izakayas that serve delicious Japanese dishes and drinks. The area has a lively atmosphere, and it is a great place to experience the local food culture. Note that, because many patrons end up having a little bit too much to drink and often find it difficult to locate somewhere to relieve themselves, this section of Shinjuku also has the unfortunate nickname “Shoben Shoro” (小便小路), which means “piss alley” in Japanese. Don’t worry; There are now plenty of public restrooms that you can use when you “gotta go.”
- Shinjuku Golden Gai (新宿ゴールデン街) : Golden Gai is another narrow alleyway located in Shinjuku that is known for its small and intimate bars and restaurants. The area has a bohemian atmosphere, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
- Kabukicho (歌舞伎町): Kabukicho is a bustling entertainment district located just east of Shinjuku Station, and it is home to a wide variety of dining options. The area has everything from casual fast-food joints to upscale fine dining restaurants. An unusual alternative in Kabukicho is Dinosaur Planet, a themed bar that features dinosaur-themed decor and drinks. The bar has a variety of dinosaur sculptures and features drinks with names like “T-Rex Colada” and “Stegosaurus Sunrise.”
- Shin-Okubo (新大久保): Shin-Okubo is a neighborhood located just north of Shinjuku Station, and it is Tokyo’s Koreatown. The area is known for its Korean restaurants and food markets, and it is a great place to try some authentic Korean cuisine.
- Isetan (伊勢丹): Isetan is a department store located just south of Shinjuku Station, and it is home to a wide variety of restaurants and food halls. The area has everything from casual cafes to high-end restaurants, and it is a great place to try some gourmet food.
Overall, Shinjuku-ku has a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for traditional Japanese cuisine, international flavors, or something in between, you’re sure to find it in Shinjuku-ku.
Nightlife
You can go out for a casual drink or party all night in both Shibuya-ku and Shinjuku-ku.
There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to nightlife in Shibuya, including bars, nightclubs, live music venues, and more. Here are some examples:
- Club Camelot (クラブ キャメロット): Club Camelot is a popular nightclub located just south of Shibuya Station. The venue has several floors and offers a variety of music styles, including EDM, hip-hop, and J-pop.
- Womb: Womb is another popular nightclub located just south of Shibuya Station. The venue is known for its state-of-the-art sound system and its lineup of local and international DJs.
- TK Shibuya: This club, which has a capacity for approximately 1,000 patrons, is located very close to Shibuya Station.
- Nonbei Yokocho (のんべい横丁): Nonbei Yokocho is a narrow alleyway located just west of Shibuya Station, and it is home to several traditional Japanese bars and pubs. The area has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, and it is a great place to grab a few drinks and socialize with locals.
- Shibuya Center-Gai (渋谷センター街): Center Gai is a pedestrian street located just east of Shibuya Station, and it is home to several bars, clubs, and cafes. The area is a popular destination for young people and has a lively atmosphere.
Overall, Shibuya-ku has a wide variety of nightlife options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a night of dancing and partying or a more relaxed evening spent socializing with friends, you’re sure to find it in Shibuya-ku.
Shinjuku-ku is a vibrant neighborhood in Tokyo that also offers a wide range of nightlife options. Whether you’re looking for a night of clubbing, a quiet drink at a cozy bar, or a cultural experience, you’ll find plenty to do in Shinjuku-ku. Here are some examples of nightlife options:
- Kabukicho (歌舞伎町): While not exactly the safest place to be late at night, Kabukicho is a popular entertainment district located in the heart of Shinjuku-ku. The area is known for its nightlife, including bars, nightclubs, and hostess clubs. Kabukicho is also home to many karaoke bars where you can sing your heart out.
- Shinjuku Golden Gai (新宿ゴールデン街) : Golden Gai is a small network of narrow alleys located in Shinjuku-ku, and it is home to a variety of tiny bars and clubs. The area has a bohemian atmosphere and is popular among locals and tourists alike.
- Hanazono Shrine Night Market (花園神社・酉の市): The Hanazono Shrine Night Market is a seasonal event held on weekends during the summer months. The market features a variety of food stalls, games, and performances and is a great place to experience Japanese festival culture.
- Warp Shinjuku: Warp Shinjuku is a popular club located in the heart of Shinjuku. It offers a mix of electronic dance music (EDM) and hip-hop, catering to a diverse crowd. The club is known for its energetic atmosphere, state-of-the-art sound system, and regular performances by local and international DJs.
- Club Science (新宿 club SCIENCE): While not too big, Club Science is yet another option for an all-nighter in Kabukicho.
- Kujira Entertainment (クジラエンターテインメント): While it is a little difficult to describe this particular establishment, it is, essentially, a restaurant that features a variety of live entertainment. You can either focus on getting a bite to eat while drinking or enjoying the hookah bar, all in the midst of real-life anime figures to keep you entertained until the wee hours of the morning.
- 8bit Cafe: For any fan of the classic video games of the 1980s and 1990s, this tiny bar is the place to go—if you can find it.
- New Sazae (ニューサザエ): If disco from the 1970s and 1980s is your thing, then you definitely need to check out New Sazae, where you can hustle your way through the evening like John Travolta or A Taste of Honey.
Overall, Shinjuku-ku offers a wide range of nightlife options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a more relaxed evening spent socializing with friends, you’re sure to find it in Shinjuku-ku.
…and More
The list just goes on and on, as you could literally spend a year investigating the backstreets of both districts.
Here are a few more suggestions to keep you occupied in Shibuya:
- Explore Cat Street (キャットストリート): Cat Street is a trendy shopping street that connects Shibuya and Harajuku. Named for its “cool cats” who aspire to appear on a fashion catwalk, it is known for its stylish boutiques, unique fashion stores, and hip cafes. Take a stroll along Cat Street to discover the latest fashion trends and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Note that the formal name for Cat Street is Kyu-Shibuya-gawa Yuhodoro (旧渋谷川遊歩道), which means “Old Shibuya River Pedestrian Lane” in Japanese. Everybody just calls this meandering alley Cat Street, though.
- Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (明治神宮): Located near Shibuya Station, Meiji Jingu Shrine is a serene oasis in the midst of the city. It is one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Take a peaceful walk through the forested path leading to the shrine and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
- Check out Shibuya Sky (渋谷スカイ): One of Shibuya’s newest attractions, the view from the small park at the top of one of Shibuya’s newest skyscrapers next to Shibuya Station is simply spectacular—particularly at night.
- Discover Tokyo’s Indie Music Scene: Shibuya is renowned for its indie music scene. Check out small live music venues such as Shibuya Eggman, WWW, or O-nest to catch up-and-coming local bands and musicians. Experience the energy and creativity of Tokyo’s indie music culture.
- Unleash Your Creativity at Shibuya Loft (ロフト渋谷店): Shibuya Loft is a multi-story store offering an extensive selection of art supplies, stationery, unique gadgets, and trendy goods. It’s a fantastic place to explore and find creative inspiration. The only problem is that once you start poking around and slowing combing through each floor, you will, most likely lose track of time quickly.
Shinjuku won’t disappoint, either. Here are some additional suggestions in and around the world’s busiest train station:
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑): Take a break from the urban hustle and visit the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen. This spacious park features diverse gardens, including Japanese, French, and English styles. It’s a perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll amidst nature.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck (東京都庁 北展望室): Head up to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views of the city. The deck is free to enter and provides breathtaking vistas of Tokyo, especially during sunset and at night.
- Samurai Museum (サムライミュージアム): Immerse yourself in Japanese history and culture at the Samurai Museum. Learn about the samurai warriors through displays of armor, weapons, and interactive performances. You can even try on samurai armor and pose for memorable photos.
The bottom line is that both Shibuya-ku and Shinjuku-ku wards are centrally located, have a few pockets of exclusive neighborhoods, have thousands of restaurants that run the gamut in terms of various types of cuisines, and have popular nightlife districts.
It really comes down to personal preference regarding which is best, but if you have an opportunity to live in either location—especially when you can live as close as possible to your place of work—then do it!
Life is too short to waste commuting, and both Shibuya-ku and Shinjuku-ku have no shortage of available properties.
For more insights and updates on Tokyo’s real estate market, stay tuned to our blog at Tokyo Portfolio. If you have any real estate inquiries or need assistance with appraisals, feel free to contact us at **@bl*************.com or through the contact form on our website.
