Gotta ask... Do YOU Like Shinjuku? Chime in Below!! [ --- also Special REMINDER Below --- ] *Releasing Tokyo Lens Maps, Behind-the-scenes updates, Meetups, Secrets, and more in the new Tokyo Lens Newsletter Below!!* BUT FIRST!!! CHECK OUT My Friends at MAGICAL TRIP! (Honestly.... even just steal travel ideas from their website lol - they're cool with it) MagicalTrip Website bit.ly/MagicalTripHP Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku bit.ly/BarHoppingShinjuku --- *NEW* Tokyo Lens Newsletter - Maps, Tips, Meetups & More! bit.ly/TokyoLensNwsLtr I also put together a Tokyo Shopping Guide!! (free download) bit.ly/ShpGuide [SPECIAL REMINDER] *EXPLORE ALWAYS Merch Disappears at 1Million Subscribers* tokyolens.creator-spring.com/.
Although Shinjuku has some negative images especially at night, Norm added lots of positive aspects such as the spectacular Hanazono shrine, findings of unique posters and Godzilla!😆Really enjoyed watching all the fascinating night shots! Thank you☺️
When I first came to Japan in 2003, Shinjuku was my "idea" of what Tokyo was supposed to be. The crush of people, the narrow back streets, the barrage of lights, signs, and noise - and the occasional hidden island of calm in there. It's definitely a concentrated experience - so I think that's one of the things it offers tourists. Nowhere is it more apparent that you aren't "home" and that you're exploring some completely foreign landscape than in Shinjuku. I think it's a useful place to live NEAR, but not in (my house is a few stops away on the train). I could not imagine having Shinjuku station be something I need to traverse on a daily basis. I don't want to have to worry about my friends and guests being hassled by street touts or scouts in my neighborhood. It's an entertainment district, and serves that purpose - but these days, it's just as nice to get on a train and leave.
Always happy to see a new Tokyo lens video :) Tokyo nightlife always seems to hit so different during the night especially with the hidden spots that aren’t always noticeable !!
As a female Japanese person, I do put on a more unfriendly expression and posture when I’m marching thru the hordes of touts… but I do frequent the cinemas and adore Hanazono shrine at night. I prefer Shinjuku to Shibuya! The small eateries towards Shinjuku 3-chome areas and Golden Gai can be really nice and once you get to know the ppl, they’re little oases among all the noise. Those spots in Shibuya are bulldozed over now and replaced by rowdy teens/tourists drinking on the street against regulations. Shout out to the many good Turkish restaurants spanning from Shinjuku to Yoyogi!
20 years ago when I was a young Airman, I was stuck downtown because I didn't know that the train stopped at midnight. I came from Fussa and was stuck in Shibuya. I wandered around until 7AM and a little after the train started running again. I didn't have a map and I wandererd for a while thru Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku and the outskirts of Tokyo proper. I found a lot of cool places. Was harassed by a dude who thought I had weed, and played pachinko for longer than I thought I would. I also learned that Tokyo metropolitan is a crazy diverse place where you can find all kinds of cool stuff. Thank you for reminding me of me drunken experiences from 20 years ago.
As a solo male here I had a couple scary experiences here. Walking from my hotel (Gracery, the big Godzilla one) to the robot restaurant, I got harassed by the African bouncers of a nightclub, they grabbed my arm and tried to force me in their club and stood in front and blocked my way to the restaurant. I did a U turn and tried to head back to my hotel and they literally followed me down 2 streets. I had to duck into a shop and browse for 15 minutes until they left. The next morning I left to travel to my next location and see a young, maybe early 20s American guy naked except for boxer shorts, sitting in the middle of the street crying. I asked if he needed help and he said he thinks we was drugged and had bouncers threaten to keep his passport until he paid them. Japan is an amazing place but it has a real dodgy area where the police simply won't help you in these areas. By contrast, Osaka and Kyoto were totally safe.
Yeah I've got a torn hoodie from a similar situation. I didn't read up about the Nigerian presence in Shinjuku. The "handlers" I guess, trying to get you to go places. Only later did I read about how they drug you and force you to empty your bank account. I made the mistake of trying to joke with the 5th guy in 20 minutes to approach me. He said I called him a "criminal" though he clearly knew I hadn't, and grabbed me by the scruff and got in my face saying he wasn't a criminal and this was his livelihood. He was sort of looking me up and down and I believe he came to the realization he had come to a dead end this night in obtaining any financial gain from me. I kinda made the peace sign in his face until he let me go. To their credit, there were some worried onlookers. I had read up about how police in Japan don't really give a shit about foreigners so I'm not sure I could have handled this any differently. I felt like a victim but I had a Shinkansen to catch the next day.
Good thing about those nigerian bouncers is that they usually only have tourist visas and are working illegally so if they get too handsy with you roughing them up is fine since they are unlikely to go crying to police about it. Ofcourse this is only useful if you are a big guy or a good fighter or you have multiple males in your company when they start harassing you. And the ones I've been bumping into are usually cowards/don't want to make a scene so if you stand your ground they usually back off.
when my friends and I were searching for a decent karaoke place one night there, we were approached by a dude who said he would assist us. He got on his phone and spoke to someone for a minute and then proceeded to lead us a few blocks away into a building and up an elevator to a strange assortment of karaoke rooms. the walkway leading to the rooms was made of wooden slats that twisted and turned upward like a strange rollercoaster. My spidey sense were starting to rise and we sat down and a women posted tye bill on the wall for us before we even began. The bill was an outlandish price and everything seemed to come to a head so we booked it. Shortly after fully realizing it was most likely a sketchy place were they would have drugged us and probably stolen our momney and/or passports or something else. We were very lucky in hindsight.
Did a solo female trip and all my tours were with Magical Trips! One of my tours in Kyoto ended up only being me and the guide and it was such an awesome time! Highly recommend the Shinjuku and Shibuya bar/food tours too - as a solo female traveler it was the safest way and it built up my confidence!
Japan is an incredibly safe place, but the Shinjuku area is really dodgy at night-time. You can cheerfully avoid the entire area, it's really not anything to rave about.
As a woman who would likely travel to Japan solo, I really enjoy living vicariously through your videos! I'm enjoying all the places I definitely would not walk through alone, and certainly not late at night if I could help it! Your enthusiasm makes it such a good time, too. Thanks, Norm! ❤
I'm not drinker/partier, but shinjuku is definitely a spot to hit up a little for me. There are some record stores, trading card stores, lots of S tier ramen, and the area is aesthetic as heck. The niboshi ramen in golden gai is great to get during the day because it isn't as busy as night.
I love that you show or talk about even the scenes vloggers would normally cut out, it's a more authentic presentation of what viewers would see if they do a midnight Shinjuku walk themselves.
I did a similar night walk around Shinjuku on one of my trips to Tokyo, and I personally feel that Shinjuku can be a hit or miss. Shinjuku feels pretty diversed in its on way. On one side of Shinjuku, you will be swarmed with all the bouncers and people trying to drag you into their clubs, and another side of it will be filled with amazing izakayas and small spaces that are just such a beauty to explore. Even as solo travelling male, I do feel intimidated at some of the places around Shinjuku, but I do feel that it's still pretty safe. Nevertheless, if anyone has the opportunity, I do recommend doing night walks all over Tokyo to experience the peace and quiet of the city which is opposite of the Tokyo you see in the day. Thanks for another amazing video and bringing us a different look into Japan beyond the usual sights.
@@j134679 personally I feel that Kabukicho is a very interesting spot to go to, be it night and day. And they have very different ‘personalities’ at the different time of the day (morning, evening, late night, dawn). It may be intimidating and scary, but it’s an interesting sight to explore. Definitely need to be street smart and avoid unnecessary ‘dangers’. It’s not even a dangerous place by itself, imo Japan in general is a safe place.
Awesome video as always Norm. You always find and the most positive things about every place you take a night walk in even if that place doesn’t always have the best reputation.
My weirdest time in Shinjuku was in 1994 - as my time in Tokyo working for Kodansha was ending. I had grabbed a suite at the Hyatt that got me a King sized bed (I was mostly at a apartment house with an extra long twin bed), and I tried to short cut my way there. I walked through a miniature park. As my eyes adapted to the night - I noticed there were silent couples in the bushes, hoping I wouldn’t notice them. It was different. I scooted out the park as fast as I could. Life has wonders.
It feels like it’s been a while since we’ve been on a night walk. I love that even though it wasn’t a place you enjoy much, you still tried to point out positive attributes. I will say the area was giving me cyber, neo-noir vibes in a way. So much to see and discover
You are close to 1-MILLION subs! Gratz, Norm. You deserve it. Your content is always pro-level quality. Shinjuku is an interesting place, but also sketchy at certain times. Be careful out there.
I just want to say that your videos are great! At the moment, I'm at a very low in my life and my lifelong dream is to visit Japan, which I don't think will happen in the foreseeable future for many reasons, but your videos, man... Just watching you walking around Tokyo at night, visiting shrines and thrift shops, it's just so compelling and soothing. Great content, man, keep up the good work!
Loved Shinjuku! The Golden Gai and then discovering that shrine was the highlight of my trip. Also got to experience an EXCELLENT ramen place called Nagi.
I never knew how interesting Japan would actually be until I find Tokyo Lens. I don't know is it your way of telling stories, but I love watching your videos. My favorite ones are the tiny apartment videos along with the night trains and probably almost any accommodation situations. Kudos to you! Keep up the good work.
+1 to the magical trips recommendation. My wife and I did a similar Fushimi Inari back trail hike. Our guide, Shiori, was fantastic. Very knowledgeable and we felt safe hiking in those back trails thanks to her.
Ive lived in NYC for 40 years. Worked and wandered some of the most putrid locations at any hours and doing so taught me that keeping alert of your surroundings and having common sense , you can get through and have fun in any city in the world..well most lol
As a female, I went to Japan by myself. I walked many of the cities at night, alone. Not once was I harassed. I felt 100% safe, except Roppongi at night. Nope. Did not feel safe at all.
Followed Magical Trip on my 2 socials and you may not love Shinjuku but it sure makes for some great content for your channel. LOVED this one. More soon kudasai.
I think it looks magical. I love stuff at 2AM. When I was younger my Mom would drive me around in the car at night and I can remember the light of an autobody shop. I love all the lights. I also have fond memory of a TV show that was on at like 3AM or so and that theme song always reminds me of that time in the morning. I love that it's super busy at that time of the morning.
stop staying at Shinjuku some 15 years ago when I found there were more tourists than locals and the night life nearby was quite unsafe for a solo female tourist like myself and I wasn’t such a big time spender apart from sightseeing despite being a frequent visitor to Japan but yeah, Shinjuku is deffo my no go list unless I have to
🦛Hippopotamus LOL🦛 so random just like the city itself😂😂😂 I’ve been to Shinjuku many times, but it looks different somehow in this vid! Meaning you always show us the world through your ‘Lens’ so we can find a new face of the city, and you’re so good at doing it❤ Thank you for all your works, Norm🥰 MagicalTrip tour looks interesting too!! Definitely looking in to it~
It’s so interesting to get a glimpse of Shinjuku’s nightlife! Couldn’t help but think of Las Vegas seeing those particularly bright and rowdy areas, yet the shrine couldn’t have felt more peaceful. Thanks for sharing with us, Norm!
I love this video. I LOVE Tokyo nights. I used to hang out in Shinjuku at night often 15 years ago.. haven't been there since. It seems a bit different. I don't remember any trash.. that blows my mind. I'm jealous how easy it looked for you to find access to a rooftop! Side note, I saw you had a night shot of Asakusa from what appears to be an earlier walk. I once stayed in a hotel there because it was the most affordable, and was so shocked that past sunset the entire place becomes a ghost town. SO bustling during the day, freaky empty even in early night. No convenience stores, nothing. Just dark, quiet, empty.
My adult son and I visited Tokyo pre-COVID and stayed at Hotel Gracery. Kabukicho / Shinjuku was a good economical location from which to explore the city. It seemed perfectly safe, but then again we're used to Times Square. No one bothered us, but to be fair we weren't out past midnight (bed to get up early for excursions) - and there were still families about. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.
it's literally the worst part of the city to use as a base its one of the least "real" parts of Tokyo With a train station that you will waste hours of your trip navigating because its built so poorly it's pitched as a great transportation hub for access to the city but in comparison to somwhere like UENO that has ACTUAL good access, its all just branding that's all shinjuku is branding while there are soooo many better places out there, people get hooked and waste a ton of time in Shinjuku unfortunately I would personally pay out of pocket for people to avoid there area lol next time consider staying in UENO walking distance to cultural Asakusa, and the sumida river, or to Akihabara has the Ameyoko market there, as well as Ueno park in fact the amount of walkable area around there and everything you have access to is amazing And the best part is that it gives QUICK access to actual useful train lines which means its hotel-to-train in 5-7 minutes instead of 15-25 like shinjuku
For all the aspects of Shinjuku that can be considered negative, the neon lights just captivate me and make me nostalgic for a time I haven't experienced. Thanks for sharing. PS. That cat was darn cute
Ah... Hanazono Jinja ⛩️ Brings back many good memories of my strolls to and from Shinjuku from Waseda when I was an exchange student... The crazy contrast of solitude in the Shrine during a busy time in Shinjuku is great and would deviate from Meiji Doori (the freeway) to spend a few moments of peace there
I was roaming around Shinjuku friday night and I think I passed through some of the same narroe alleyways. For some reason they always seem to grab my attention and call me to them. At the same time, this video made the fact that I'll be leaving Japan on this friday just a tidbit more real. I am already missing it. It's just such a unique place. Guess I'll just have to work harder on a way to get back here as soon as possible. In the meantime, thanks for the videos keeping the soon-to-be-memories vivid.
I cant belive I almost skipped this! I have been really busy recently, but I am glad I kept this in the back of my mind to come back to. An enjoyable respite from a busy time.
I loved Shinjuku while I was out there last year. It seemed like everyone was having a lot of fun and I found a little Izakaya where the bartender spoke english and he helped me make some friends that night. I spent a lot more time in Shinjuku than I had planned because there was always so much going on. I will be in Tokyo again later this year and these videos will always hype me up to go back.
These night walk videos make me miss the two weeks I spent in Japan earlier this year. We always had a full day and had to walk home very late and these make me wish I convinced myself and my companions to stay overnight someplace other than our AirBnB.
Thanks Norm, another great video. I have been to Shinjuku 3 times now, mostly early evening, and have felt a slight apprehension, but no worse than any other city in another country. I guess that having been around for a few years now I might not seem such an easy mark, I’ve never felt too uncomfortable. Love Tokyo and love Japan I can’t wait to come back.
During Summer 2023, the area where you said was blocked off, it was crowded with people sleeping there and the toyoko kids were roaming as well, lots of security guards were on sentry too.
"A few random guys came up and asked if my camera was expensive and how much it was worth. All the people here are so lovely!" (I know that in this case, it was asking nicely. But as someone from New York, hoo, that sentence gave me a lot of anxiety XDD)
@@Gigglesandsmiles1having random strangers just walk up to you and ask if your camera is expensive and asking it’s worth, can look like them eyeing up whether it’s worth stealing from you, especially in the middle of the night like he is.
Loved this Norm, happy memories as I recognise a lot of the places. I stayed in Shinjuku on one of my trips to Japan. The main thing it has going for it is the central location to go everywhere else. Once you've seen Kabukicho, and the vomiting kids alongside some very nice 'ladies of the night', you don't need to see much more of it. But it's cheap to stay and great for travelling out to the better, cooler, places. Cheers Norm.
Thank you for finding some positives for us in Shinjuku. Thete were two areas we visited that my daughter hated and couldnt get us to leave soin enough, and that was Shinjuku and Shibuya. Too loud and crowded, and both were dirty with rubbish. We felt safe everywhere else, but guarded there. So it's nice to see the peaceful spots and see the city from different angles we might otherwise miss. Shrines always brought me joy when we found them on our travels. 😊
That shrine brings back memories... I haven been there only once, around 1am on the first of January 2018. Unsurprisingly, it wasn't empty, we had to line up for about an hour. But it was an amazing experience to do hatsumode with a Japanese friend while I was on vacation in Japan.
I think what makes Shinjuku special/cool/unique (you name it) is the fact that you get the sheer amount of Japanese craziness in one place. When I was about to visit Japan for the first time, a friend told me: Tokyo is like New-York on steroids and Shinjuku is the pumping heart of the city. Some my argue the Shibuya can give a nice fight to Shinjuku but for me, wins Shinjuku, hands down. This does not mean I don't like Shibuya. Heck, I love this town!
living in a city where everything closes as 18h and restaurants closes at 23h, I find shinjuku fascinating. To have stores and restaurants opened so late, so many people and light at night, it's crazy.
Just happened to stumble upon that shrine during my last trip to Japan in 2019. It was so beautiful to see. Another great video Norm, thanks & greetings from Aruba.
Glad someone finally mentioned the Hollywoodification of Tokyo in those new developments! Especially in tourist traps like that new Kabukicho tower. I always wonder how sustainable it is to tear down old authentic buildings to replace them with some kitsch pastiche that only appeals to people who aren't really into japan. lol Like what are they gonna do when the casual tourists stay away because there's a new trending destination? Then they killed off all the backalley mom and pop restaurants for some huge corporate tower nobody goes to anymore.
On my first trip to Japan, one of my most memorable experiences was nights out in Golden Gai and Shinjuku! I will say I felt very safe but was also with a group of people so that probably helped. Thanks for showing us the different sides of Shinjuku! Side note: would be really sad if Golden Gai gets redeveloped, it really was such a fun and unique experience and one of my favorite parts of my trip
I really do love how happy and full of joy you always look in these videos. Like I can just tell that your not doing it for content it's because you love sharing these special places and moments with us Thank you Also getting so close to the 1mil
I visited Japan in November and on our first night after we landed, we went on a walk around Shinjuku . It was on a Friday and definitely was... something I'll never forget. Tokyo won me over somehow, even though we visited and slept in other cities too (the ryokan in Kyoto was absolutely gorgeous). Found Shinjuku and Shibuya more interesting than Ginza too.
Yo! This really wantedto say how much I appreciate these videos. I quit my job and started long term travel about 5 months ago. I am currently in Japan, been living about a month in Nara outside of Osaka but I am about to embark on a 1 month road trip in a Kei Van. Your videos have been very helpful and I really enjoy your style and how informative you are. Thanks for what you do.
Shinjuku was definitely a great place to visit for our first trip to japan, but my wife and I are not night life people. Maybe early 20's me would have had a different time, but family man-late 30's me just can't be bothered! Day time Shinjuku with it's parks and shopping is far more attractive to me now
1:40 It is called the "Pizza Effect." It is defined as "the phenomenon of elements of a nation's or people's culture being transformed or at least more fully embraced elsewhere, then re-exported to their culture of origin." (from Wiki)
I love these night walks. Thank you for doing them. The rooftop views you found are worth it alone. Also, having recently had Lukasz as our guide for a Photo tour, will also add my recommendation for Eyexplore.
Shinjuko had some nice shopping here and there but I was more than happy to head back to Ueno at the end of the evening. I didn't even waste my time going towards Kabukicho, so if you really want to see the Godzilla head I recommend head there before noon
Even though I would LOVE to walk around Tokyo with you as a guide, I am absolutely fine with living that dream through your videos because let's face it: It's basically the same thing. Thank you for uploading them to us! =)
Stayed in the Hotel next to Golden Gai twice, 2015 and 2018. Visited the shrine also. Some things changed like the new mall you were in, was a laser tag place. Went bowling next door to the mall, did the bar hopping thing also. This video brings back lots of memories! Thanks for making and sharing this video. I call it my second home, but always took a train to other towns that I never visited. It can be sensory overload at times.
Happy Sunday Norm...Not a very social person...but a night owl.. so this is great... hopefully I can get there someday... until then your videos give me solace..
Oddly enough, I’m watching this again at 1:44 am because I can’t sleep. Love the exploration and the views (a the quiet moments). Not sure if I’m ready for Shinjuku though. Take care!
25 years LATER that is what I remember.... and Roponggi was the amazing vacuum .... and you are just going through the slow areas... i covered the area on foot ... from roponggi to shinanomachi to kabukicho to yoyogi - harajuku - omotesando - shibuya - back home to --> shinanomachi |walk it live it love it|
We stayed in Shinjuku when there last that and walked down that little path with the stone path and trees. My kids loved seeing that again. We just used it as a base and didn’t mind the area.
If I was my former self the younger one, I would totally appreciate Shinjuku! I love cities with late night restaurants and open shops! In the early 2000s NYC was great, crime was down, city was cleaner, and you could find a place to eat all night! You could even buy an outfit to go out w friends last minute. It was a good time. I worked in a restaurant and would get off late but could still ride a train home or go out w friends. Now I feel like a grandma. I just want to go to onsen, resorts, enjoy the nature. I’d rather go to Kyoto than Tokyo. But I’d have to go to Tokyo for shopping! I love buying clothes in foreign countries!
![[#2024MAMA] G-DRAGON - 무제(Untitled, 2014)+POWER+HOME SWEET HOME+뱅뱅뱅+FANTASTIC BABY | Mnet 241123 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ox29z5Nf1Uk/mqdefault.jpg)
Gotta ask... Do YOU Like Shinjuku? Chime in Below!! [ --- also Special REMINDER Below --- ]
*Releasing Tokyo Lens Maps, Behind-the-scenes updates, Meetups, Secrets, and more in the new Tokyo Lens Newsletter Below!!*
BUT FIRST!!! CHECK OUT My Friends at MAGICAL TRIP! (Honestly.... even just steal travel ideas from their website lol - they're cool with it)
MagicalTrip Website
bit.ly/MagicalTripHP
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
bit.ly/BarHoppingShinjuku
---
*NEW* Tokyo Lens Newsletter - Maps, Tips, Meetups & More!
bit.ly/TokyoLensNwsLtr
I also put together a Tokyo Shopping Guide!! (free download)
bit.ly/ShpGuide
[SPECIAL REMINDER]
*EXPLORE ALWAYS Merch Disappears at 1Million Subscribers*
tokyolens.creator-spring.com/.
I really love you Tokyo Lens. You are a good guy
I wouldn't like a place with so many people either. 😂
I like Shinjuku and do not like Shibuya. Maybe I am doing Japan wrong.
With how unclean my city is Shinjuku definitely felt a bit homely for me 😅
Do you have 911 system for cops and fire? and do they speak english?
Although Shinjuku has some negative images especially at night, Norm added lots of positive aspects such as the spectacular Hanazono shrine, findings of unique posters and Godzilla!😆Really enjoyed watching all the fascinating night shots! Thank you☺️
haha glad you enjoyed it!! Keep up the great work~
When I first came to Japan in 2003, Shinjuku was my "idea" of what Tokyo was supposed to be. The crush of people, the narrow back streets, the barrage of lights, signs, and noise - and the occasional hidden island of calm in there. It's definitely a concentrated experience - so I think that's one of the things it offers tourists. Nowhere is it more apparent that you aren't "home" and that you're exploring some completely foreign landscape than in Shinjuku.
I think it's a useful place to live NEAR, but not in (my house is a few stops away on the train). I could not imagine having Shinjuku station be something I need to traverse on a daily basis. I don't want to have to worry about my friends and guests being hassled by street touts or scouts in my neighborhood. It's an entertainment district, and serves that purpose - but these days, it's just as nice to get on a train and leave.
Always happy to see a new Tokyo lens video :) Tokyo nightlife always seems to hit so different during the night especially with the hidden spots that aren’t always noticeable !!
always glad to have you here!~
As a female Japanese person, I do put on a more unfriendly expression and posture when I’m marching thru the hordes of touts… but I do frequent the cinemas and adore Hanazono shrine at night.
I prefer Shinjuku to Shibuya! The small eateries towards Shinjuku 3-chome areas and Golden Gai can be really nice and once you get to know the ppl, they’re little oases among all the noise. Those spots in Shibuya are bulldozed over now and replaced by rowdy teens/tourists drinking on the street against regulations.
Shout out to the many good Turkish restaurants spanning from Shinjuku to Yoyogi!
20 years ago when I was a young Airman, I was stuck downtown because I didn't know that the train stopped at midnight. I came from Fussa and was stuck in Shibuya. I wandered around until 7AM and a little after the train started running again. I didn't have a map and I wandererd for a while thru Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku and the outskirts of Tokyo proper. I found a lot of cool places. Was harassed by a dude who thought I had weed, and played pachinko for longer than I thought I would. I also learned that Tokyo metropolitan is a crazy diverse place where you can find all kinds of cool stuff. Thank you for reminding me of me drunken experiences from 20 years ago.
Thank you for being here for it!
As a solo male here I had a couple scary experiences here.
Walking from my hotel (Gracery, the big Godzilla one) to the robot restaurant, I got harassed by the African bouncers of a nightclub, they grabbed my arm and tried to force me in their club and stood in front and blocked my way to the restaurant. I did a U turn and tried to head back to my hotel and they literally followed me down 2 streets. I had to duck into a shop and browse for 15 minutes until they left.
The next morning I left to travel to my next location and see a young, maybe early 20s American guy naked except for boxer shorts, sitting in the middle of the street crying. I asked if he needed help and he said he thinks we was drugged and had bouncers threaten to keep his passport until he paid them.
Japan is an amazing place but it has a real dodgy area where the police simply won't help you in these areas.
By contrast, Osaka and Kyoto were totally safe.
a reasonable sentiment~
honestly I had a few more unpleasant moments this night than made it to camera lol
@@TokyoLens It'd be great to see the 'darker' side of it, but I gather Japan isn't too fond of that sort of stuff making it into videos :(
Yeah I've got a torn hoodie from a similar situation. I didn't read up about the Nigerian presence in Shinjuku. The "handlers" I guess, trying to get you to go places. Only later did I read about how they drug you and force you to empty your bank account. I made the mistake of trying to joke with the 5th guy in 20 minutes to approach me. He said I called him a "criminal" though he clearly knew I hadn't, and grabbed me by the scruff and got in my face saying he wasn't a criminal and this was his livelihood. He was sort of looking me up and down and I believe he came to the realization he had come to a dead end this night in obtaining any financial gain from me. I kinda made the peace sign in his face until he let me go. To their credit, there were some worried onlookers. I had read up about how police in Japan don't really give a shit about foreigners so I'm not sure I could have handled this any differently. I felt like a victim but I had a Shinkansen to catch the next day.
Good thing about those nigerian bouncers is that they usually only have tourist visas and are working illegally so if they get too handsy with you roughing them up is fine since they are unlikely to go crying to police about it. Ofcourse this is only useful if you are a big guy or a good fighter or you have multiple males in your company when they start harassing you. And the ones I've been bumping into are usually cowards/don't want to make a scene so if you stand your ground they usually back off.
when my friends and I were searching for a decent karaoke place one night there, we were approached by a dude who said he would assist us. He got on his phone and spoke to someone for a minute and then proceeded to lead us a few blocks away into a building and up an elevator to a strange assortment of karaoke rooms. the walkway leading to the rooms was made of wooden slats that twisted and turned upward like a strange rollercoaster. My spidey sense were starting to rise and we sat down and a women posted tye bill on the wall for us before we even began. The bill was an outlandish price and everything seemed to come to a head so we booked it. Shortly after fully realizing it was most likely a sketchy place were they would have drugged us and probably stolen our momney and/or passports or something else. We were very lucky in hindsight.
Your videos make me want to go to Japan and never sleep because you make all the times of the day seem beautiful.
this is why I never sleep! haha
Same thing here
Though the pictures online show a lot more nature! Like as a big city, they will plant anything anywhere on rooftops and everything!
Did a solo female trip and all my tours were with Magical Trips! One of my tours in Kyoto ended up only being me and the guide and it was such an awesome time! Highly recommend the Shinjuku and Shibuya bar/food tours too - as a solo female traveler it was the safest way and it built up my confidence!
As a women who's eager to go to Japan,(but is a tad afraid of solo travel) I appreciate seeing Tokyo through your lens! :)
Japan is an incredibly safe place, but the Shinjuku area is really dodgy at night-time.
You can cheerfully avoid the entire area, it's really not anything to rave about.
Kudos to the Yakuza video game series for showcasing in such detail all these locations .
If I went to Shinjuku I would be a tour guide cause the kamurocho is Burned into my brain
Yay! A new Norm vid, perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon ❤
Yay, thank you!
I love shinjuku and the colorful lights and it gives me cyberpunk/bladerunner vibes
its.... ok lol
more like yakuza vibes
There’s actually a metal bar and cyberpunk bar in the Golden Gai area!
As a woman who would likely travel to Japan solo, I really enjoy living vicariously through your videos! I'm enjoying all the places I definitely would not walk through alone, and certainly not late at night if I could help it! Your enthusiasm makes it such a good time, too. Thanks, Norm! ❤
Glad you like them!
I'm not drinker/partier, but shinjuku is definitely a spot to hit up a little for me. There are some record stores, trading card stores, lots of S tier ramen, and the area is aesthetic as heck. The niboshi ramen in golden gai is great to get during the day because it isn't as busy as night.
I love that you show or talk about even the scenes vloggers would normally cut out, it's a more authentic presentation of what viewers would see if they do a midnight Shinjuku walk themselves.
I did a similar night walk around Shinjuku on one of my trips to Tokyo, and I personally feel that Shinjuku can be a hit or miss. Shinjuku feels pretty diversed in its on way. On one side of Shinjuku, you will be swarmed with all the bouncers and people trying to drag you into their clubs, and another side of it will be filled with amazing izakayas and small spaces that are just such a beauty to explore. Even as solo travelling male, I do feel intimidated at some of the places around Shinjuku, but I do feel that it's still pretty safe. Nevertheless, if anyone has the opportunity, I do recommend doing night walks all over Tokyo to experience the peace and quiet of the city which is opposite of the Tokyo you see in the day.
Thanks for another amazing video and bringing us a different look into Japan beyond the usual sights.
just avoid kabukicho
@@j134679 personally I feel that Kabukicho is a very interesting spot to go to, be it night and day. And they have very different ‘personalities’ at the different time of the day (morning, evening, late night, dawn). It may be intimidating and scary, but it’s an interesting sight to explore. Definitely need to be street smart and avoid unnecessary ‘dangers’. It’s not even a dangerous place by itself, imo Japan in general is a safe place.
@@waynoshana0526 Yeah it's fine if you avoid the bouncers and the like. I had fun in Kabuchico.
Awesome video as always Norm. You always find and the most positive things about every place you take a night walk in even if that place doesn’t always have the best reputation.
My weirdest time in Shinjuku was in 1994 - as my time in Tokyo working for Kodansha was ending. I had grabbed a suite at the Hyatt that got me a King sized bed (I was mostly at a apartment house with an extra long twin bed), and I tried to short cut my way there. I walked through a miniature park. As my eyes adapted to the night - I noticed there were silent couples in the bushes, hoping I wouldn’t notice them.
It was different.
I scooted out the park as fast as I could.
Life has wonders.
It feels like it’s been a while since we’ve been on a night walk. I love that even though it wasn’t a place you enjoy much, you still tried to point out positive attributes. I will say the area was giving me cyber, neo-noir vibes in a way. So much to see and discover
You are close to 1-MILLION subs! Gratz, Norm. You deserve it. Your content is always pro-level quality.
Shinjuku is an interesting place, but also sketchy at certain times. Be careful out there.
Thanks so much eh!!
I just want to say that your videos are great! At the moment, I'm at a very low in my life and my lifelong dream is to visit Japan, which I don't think will happen in the foreseeable future for many reasons, but your videos, man... Just watching you walking around Tokyo at night, visiting shrines and thrift shops, it's just so compelling and soothing. Great content, man, keep up the good work!
What a treat on a Sunday morning in beautiful Vancouver! Thanks for an informative video to get my day started. You never let us down, Norm.
Glad you enjoyed it 😊
Loved Shinjuku! The Golden Gai and then discovering that shrine was the highlight of my trip. Also got to experience an EXCELLENT ramen place called Nagi.
I love the vibe of your videos, it’s like we are friends exploring Japan together!
I never knew how interesting Japan would actually be until I find Tokyo Lens. I don't know is it your way of telling stories, but I love watching your videos. My favorite ones are the tiny apartment videos along with the night trains and probably almost any accommodation situations. Kudos to you! Keep up the good work.
insanely kind of you!!
+1 to the magical trips recommendation. My wife and I did a similar Fushimi Inari back trail hike. Our guide, Shiori, was fantastic. Very knowledgeable and we felt safe hiking in those back trails thanks to her.
Ive lived in NYC for 40 years. Worked and wandered some of the most putrid locations at any hours and doing so taught me that keeping alert of your surroundings and having common sense , you can get through and have fun in any city in the world..well most lol
As a female, I went to Japan by myself. I walked many of the cities at night, alone. Not once was I harassed. I felt 100% safe, except Roppongi at night. Nope. Did not feel safe at all.
Norm: Your videos are always, ALWAYS, a visual treat. And then I just can't help but be immersed with your narration. Thank you!
Wow, thank you!☺️
Loved seeing Kabukicho! One of the spots I definitely want to visit at some point, as I'm a huge fan of the Yakuza / Like a Dragon games.
Every single second of the video I keep hearing the yakuza 4 for faith music raging through my head.
Wait until you enter a Donki and the theme song haunts your dreams forever 😂
I just love to walk around with you. It's so real that you think you are right in the middle of it all. Thank you so much Norm 🤍
Congratulations on 1M subscribers! Very well deserved, been opening your channel every morning to see if you made it!
Congratulations on the 1 million subscribers, Norm!!!!🎉🎉🎉
Followed Magical Trip on my 2 socials and you may not love Shinjuku but it sure makes for some great content for your channel. LOVED this one. More soon kudasai.
Night walk! ❤ A lifesaver during the pandemic, I just love them!
The quiet temple in the middle of Shinjuku surprised me. It's beautiful!
newsletter!!! *runs to look for it *
I think it looks magical. I love stuff at 2AM. When I was younger my Mom would drive me around in the car at night and I can remember the light of an autobody shop. I love all the lights. I also have fond memory of a TV show that was on at like 3AM or so and that theme song always reminds me of that time in the morning.
I love that it's super busy at that time of the morning.
Love these night exploration videos😮
stop staying at Shinjuku some 15 years ago when I found there were more tourists than locals and the night life nearby was quite unsafe for a solo female tourist like myself and I wasn’t such a big time spender apart from sightseeing despite being a frequent visitor to Japan but yeah, Shinjuku is deffo my no go list unless I have to
Keep up the content. Videos like this is why I want to go back and travel to Japan is higher than ever
I used to live near Shinjuku. This video brought back so many fun memories. Thanks!
🦛Hippopotamus LOL🦛 so random just like the city itself😂😂😂 I’ve been to Shinjuku many times, but it looks different somehow in this vid! Meaning you always show us the world through your ‘Lens’ so we can find a new face of the city, and you’re so good at doing it❤ Thank you for all your works, Norm🥰 MagicalTrip tour looks interesting too!! Definitely looking in to it~
It’s so interesting to get a glimpse of Shinjuku’s nightlife! Couldn’t help but think of Las Vegas seeing those particularly bright and rowdy areas, yet the shrine couldn’t have felt more peaceful. Thanks for sharing with us, Norm!
I love this video. I LOVE Tokyo nights. I used to hang out in Shinjuku at night often 15 years ago.. haven't been there since. It seems a bit different. I don't remember any trash.. that blows my mind. I'm jealous how easy it looked for you to find access to a rooftop! Side note, I saw you had a night shot of Asakusa from what appears to be an earlier walk. I once stayed in a hotel there because it was the most affordable, and was so shocked that past sunset the entire place becomes a ghost town. SO bustling during the day, freaky empty even in early night. No convenience stores, nothing. Just dark, quiet, empty.
My adult son and I visited Tokyo pre-COVID and stayed at Hotel Gracery. Kabukicho / Shinjuku was a good economical location from which to explore the city. It seemed perfectly safe, but then again we're used to Times Square. No one bothered us, but to be fair we weren't out past midnight (bed to get up early for excursions) - and there were still families about. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.
it's literally the worst part of the city to use as a base
its one of the least "real" parts of Tokyo
With a train station that you will waste hours of your trip navigating because its built so poorly
it's pitched as a great transportation hub for access to the city but in comparison to somwhere like UENO that has ACTUAL good access, its all just branding
that's all shinjuku is
branding
while there are soooo many better places out there, people get hooked and waste a ton of time in Shinjuku unfortunately
I would personally pay out of pocket for people to avoid there area lol
next time consider staying in UENO
walking distance to cultural Asakusa, and the sumida river, or to Akihabara
has the Ameyoko market there, as well as Ueno park
in fact the amount of walkable area around there and everything you have access to is amazing
And the best part is that it gives QUICK access to actual useful train lines
which means its hotel-to-train in 5-7 minutes instead of 15-25 like shinjuku
For all the aspects of Shinjuku that can be considered negative, the neon lights just captivate me and make me nostalgic for a time I haven't experienced. Thanks for sharing.
PS. That cat was darn cute
Ah... Hanazono Jinja ⛩️ Brings back many good memories of my strolls to and from Shinjuku from Waseda when I was an exchange student... The crazy contrast of solitude in the Shrine during a busy time in Shinjuku is great and would deviate from Meiji Doori (the freeway) to spend a few moments of peace there
I was roaming around Shinjuku friday night and I think I passed through some of the same narroe alleyways. For some reason they always seem to grab my attention and call me to them.
At the same time, this video made the fact that I'll be leaving Japan on this friday just a tidbit more real. I am already missing it. It's just such a unique place.
Guess I'll just have to work harder on a way to get back here as soon as possible. In the meantime, thanks for the videos keeping the soon-to-be-memories vivid.
I cant belive I almost skipped this!
I have been really busy recently, but I am glad I kept this in the back of my mind to come back to. An enjoyable respite from a busy time.
I loved Shinjuku while I was out there last year. It seemed like everyone was having a lot of fun and I found a little Izakaya where the bartender spoke english and he helped me make some friends that night. I spent a lot more time in Shinjuku than I had planned because there was always so much going on. I will be in Tokyo again later this year and these videos will always hype me up to go back.
These night walk videos make me miss the two weeks I spent in Japan earlier this year. We always had a full day and had to walk home very late and these make me wish I convinced myself and my companions to stay overnight someplace other than our AirBnB.
Hippopotamus. Yes, I saw that. And thank you as always for taking us on these walks with you. It's SO inspiring to see all the amazing sights.
Glad you enjoyed it!
The busy area of Shinjuku made me appreciate Sawara more since I was able to just chillax.
Thanks Norm, another great video. I have been to Shinjuku 3 times now, mostly early evening, and have felt a slight apprehension, but no worse than any other city in another country. I guess that having been around for a few years now I might not seem such an easy mark, I’ve never felt too uncomfortable. Love Tokyo and love Japan I can’t wait to come back.
Japan is such an atmospheric place 🤩
During Summer 2023, the area where you said was blocked off, it was crowded with people sleeping there and the toyoko kids were roaming as well, lots of security guards were on sentry too.
"A few random guys came up and asked if my camera was expensive and how much it was worth. All the people here are so lovely!" (I know that in this case, it was asking nicely. But as someone from New York, hoo, that sentence gave me a lot of anxiety XDD)
Why
@@Gigglesandsmiles1cause if someone is asking that they’re likely trying to rob you
@@Gigglesandsmiles1having random strangers just walk up to you and ask if your camera is expensive and asking it’s worth, can look like them eyeing up whether it’s worth stealing from you, especially in the middle of the night like he is.
@@Megaemulatorman do we have in earth a place like you never think preconceived notions about peoples questions is it finland or anywhere else
I can't wait to visit so many of the places you show on your channel some day! Thank you so much for all your work covering this amazing place!
7:28 that shrine area was the 1st thing that I stumpled into on my 1st day in Japan. Gets me emotional
Loved this Norm, happy memories as I recognise a lot of the places. I stayed in Shinjuku on one of my trips to Japan. The main thing it has going for it is the central location to go everywhere else. Once you've seen Kabukicho, and the vomiting kids alongside some very nice 'ladies of the night', you don't need to see much more of it. But it's cheap to stay and great for travelling out to the better, cooler, places. Cheers Norm.
always fun when I know people will be able to recognize and relate!!
Thank you for finding some positives for us in Shinjuku. Thete were two areas we visited that my daughter hated and couldnt get us to leave soin enough, and that was Shinjuku and Shibuya. Too loud and crowded, and both were dirty with rubbish. We felt safe everywhere else, but guarded there. So it's nice to see the peaceful spots and see the city from different angles we might otherwise miss. Shrines always brought me joy when we found them on our travels. 😊
That shrine brings back memories... I haven been there only once, around 1am on the first of January 2018. Unsurprisingly, it wasn't empty, we had to line up for about an hour. But it was an amazing experience to do hatsumode with a Japanese friend while I was on vacation in Japan.
That was fun! The shrines are so beautiful! Can you do a video specifically about a traditional Japanes shrine and the rituals they do?
I think what makes Shinjuku special/cool/unique (you name it) is the fact that you get the sheer amount of Japanese craziness in one place.
When I was about to visit Japan for the first time, a friend told me: Tokyo is like New-York on steroids and Shinjuku is the pumping heart of the city.
Some my argue the Shibuya can give a nice fight to Shinjuku but for me, wins Shinjuku, hands down.
This does not mean I don't like Shibuya.
Heck, I love this town!
living in a city where everything closes as 18h and restaurants closes at 23h, I find shinjuku fascinating. To have stores and restaurants opened so late, so many people and light at night, it's crazy.
Just happened to stumble upon that shrine during my last trip to Japan in 2019. It was so beautiful to see. Another great video Norm, thanks & greetings from Aruba.
Thank you for the amazing video as always Norm! I just started my planning for September 2025 and MagicalTrip will be a big help with that!
Glad someone finally mentioned the Hollywoodification of Tokyo in those new developments!
Especially in tourist traps like that new Kabukicho tower.
I always wonder how sustainable it is to tear down old authentic buildings to replace them with some kitsch pastiche that only appeals to people who aren't really into japan. lol
Like what are they gonna do when the casual tourists stay away because there's a new trending destination?
Then they killed off all the backalley mom and pop restaurants for some huge corporate tower nobody goes to anymore.
It’ll get worse before it gets better
On my first trip to Japan, one of my most memorable experiences was nights out in Golden Gai and Shinjuku! I will say I felt very safe but was also with a group of people so that probably helped. Thanks for showing us the different sides of Shinjuku!
Side note: would be really sad if Golden Gai gets redeveloped, it really was such a fun and unique experience and one of my favorite parts of my trip
i get bad panic attacks and anxiety. your videos help me come down. thanks
I really do love how happy and full of joy you always look in these videos. Like I can just tell that your not doing it for content it's because you love sharing these special places and moments with us
Thank you
Also getting so close to the 1mil
Thanks so much ☺️
I visited Japan in November and on our first night after we landed, we went on a walk around Shinjuku . It was on a Friday and definitely was... something I'll never forget. Tokyo won me over somehow, even though we visited and slept in other cities too (the ryokan in Kyoto was absolutely gorgeous). Found Shinjuku and Shibuya more interesting than Ginza too.
Yo! This really wantedto say how much I appreciate these videos. I quit my job and started long term travel about 5 months ago. I am currently in Japan, been living about a month in Nara outside of Osaka but I am about to embark on a 1 month road trip in a Kei Van. Your videos have been very helpful and I really enjoy your style and how informative you are. Thanks for what you do.
Great to hear! Thanks so much!! Have a great time!
That shot from above looks like it a maquette of the city. Looked unreal and impressive at the same time 😮
SO CLOSE TO 1M SUBS LETS GET OUR GUY NORM TO THAT EPIC MILESTONE PEOPLE
Shinjuku was definitely a great place to visit for our first trip to japan, but my wife and I are not night life people. Maybe early 20's me would have had a different time, but family man-late 30's me just can't be bothered! Day time Shinjuku with it's parks and shopping is far more attractive to me now
1:40 It is called the "Pizza Effect." It is defined as "the phenomenon of elements of a nation's or people's culture being transformed or at least more fully embraced elsewhere, then re-exported to their culture of origin." (from Wiki)
nightwalks are amazing.
We’re staying in shinjuku for a few nights in September, I’m so pleased to have spotted this video! Thank you Norm!
Really enjoyed this night walk thanks Norm🌃🏮✨I’ll never get tired of seeing the hidden back alleys ❤️
I love these night walks. Thank you for doing them. The rooftop views you found are worth it alone. Also, having recently had Lukasz as our guide for a Photo tour, will also add my recommendation for Eyexplore.
I've been there back in October of '99.I loved it because it was my first time in Tokyo.I'd love to go back to see how it's changed.
Shinjuko had some nice shopping here and there but I was more than happy to head back to Ueno at the end of the evening. I didn't even waste my time going towards Kabukicho, so if you really want to see the Godzilla head I recommend head there before noon
Hippopotamus is a very fun word to say! Great video Norm! As usual!!!
Even though I would LOVE to walk around Tokyo with you as a guide, I am absolutely fine with living that dream through your videos because let's face it: It's basically the same thing. Thank you for uploading them to us! =)
Stayed in the Hotel next to Golden Gai twice, 2015 and 2018. Visited the shrine also. Some things changed like the new mall you were in, was a laser tag place. Went bowling next door to the mall, did the bar hopping thing also. This video brings back lots of memories! Thanks for making and sharing this video. I call it my second home, but always took a train to other towns that I never visited. It can be sensory overload at times.
Ah this gives me memories. Stayed in Shinjuku last year and was amazing.
Happy Sunday Norm...Not a very social person...but a night owl.. so this is great... hopefully I can get there someday... until then your videos give me solace..
always appreciate having you here!
Oddly enough, I’m watching this again at 1:44 am because I can’t sleep. Love the exploration and the views (a the quiet moments). Not sure if I’m ready for Shinjuku though.
Take care!
25 years LATER that is what I remember.... and Roponggi was the amazing vacuum .... and you are just going through the slow areas... i covered the area on foot ... from roponggi to shinanomachi to kabukicho to yoyogi - harajuku - omotesando - shibuya - back home to --> shinanomachi |walk it live it love it|
Never know what to expect with your videos but love them all ❤
We stayed in Shinjuku when there last that and walked down that little path with the stone path and trees. My kids loved seeing that again. We just used it as a base and didn’t mind the area.
love to watch your videos after work! keep going!
Always love your videos!! Thank you for another night walk!! 😊
You are so welcome!
Spent months of my life walking around there, weird to see the little things I remember
hahaha hope you enjoy it!
@@TokyoLens I did, thanks.
One Love!
Always forward, never ever backward!!
☀☀☀
💚💛❤
🙏🏿🙏🙏🏼
Canadian here living in california, love your videos!!! 😊 I love japan my uncle lives there and i cant wait to go myself.
I visited shinjuku in 2005. I came out of the subway, looked around for like 5 minutes and went right back to the subway. It's overwhelming, I think.
wtf, why? cant understand that.
If I was my former self the younger one, I would totally appreciate Shinjuku! I love cities with late night restaurants and open shops! In the early 2000s NYC was great, crime was down, city was cleaner, and you could find a place to eat all night! You could even buy an outfit to go out w friends last minute. It was a good time. I worked in a restaurant and would get off late but could still ride a train home or go out w friends. Now I feel like a grandma. I just want to go to onsen, resorts, enjoy the nature. I’d rather go to Kyoto than Tokyo. But I’d have to go to Tokyo for shopping! I love buying clothes in foreign countries!
Watching your videos makes me miss Japan so much. I hope to go again someday.