Stepping out of Shinjuku station in Tokyo is like entering the definition of a city. Flocks of people travel in every direction amongst a landscape of tall buildings, all covered with flashing advertisements. Yet despite the bewitching charisma of the district, Shinjuku has an unpolished feel, contributing to its reputation as Tokyo’s red-light district. Indeed, sub-district Kabuchico is infamous for its love hotels and host/hostess bars.
Yet at no point did Shinjuku feel particularly unsafe or hostile to travellers. There was no shortage of inebriated men walking through Kabuchico, alone and barely alert, though each kept to himself (which proved convenient, as one proceeded to vomit on the sidewalk). In the morning, too, as the city wakes up, rats can be seen scavenging and fighting around the smaller restaurants lining the street front. For tourists, however, Shinjuku is a perfectly suitable place to stay, with close proximity to the Robot Restaurant and Tokyo’s other provinces a short train ride away.
Robot Restaurant
The Robot Restaurant is one of the most talked-about attractions in Tokyo, and once inside you’ll see why – the show is an insane combination of coloured lights, dancers and floats, which make it seem as though you’re having an eclectic and indescribable dream. The breaks in the show are numerous, though it seems necessary to organise all the chaos that must be ensuing backstage. Prices can be steep, especially for those on a budget – however, good deals can be found on Groupon and it’s cheaper to eat elsewhere. The Robot Restaurant performance is like watching a live anime, and though the presence of actual robots seems lacking, the cabaret-style show – combined with the intense art of the building’s interior – makes this attraction well worth a visit.
Godzilla at the Hotel Gracery
If you’re in the area, make sure to hunt down Godzilla looming over the Hotel Gracery. He’s even known to roar at certain intervals during the evening, too!
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen is a public park hailed as one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in March and April. During the rest of the year, Shinjuku Gyoen is still charming – the glassy lakes and abundance of trees provide a tranquil escape from the city. People often practice yoga on the lawns, and if you desire to see some animal life amongst the city you won’t be disappointed. Ducks and other birds drift along and above the lakes, with dragonflies and the occasional spider visible in webs in the trees. Shinjuku Gyoen also consists of a traditional Japanese garden and even a greenhouse, and is perfect for whiling away a few tranquil hours. Check opening times before you go, as the park is closed on most Mondays throughout the year.
Enjoy the adventure.
Wayward Wonders 