Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest stations in the world, with millions of travellers crossing it every day. Located in the heart of Tokyo, it is a hotspot connecting JR lines, metros and private companies. Navigating in this maze of docks, exits and passages may seem intimidating, but with some clear markers, it is possible to travel efficiently and quickly reach its destination.
Understanding the structure of Shinjuku Station
The station consists of underground levels and surface levels. There are three major JR entrances: the South Gate at 2F, the East Gate and the West Gate at B1F. Each is connected to different lines and serves particular areas of Shinjuku.
Around the station, several associated stations, such as Shinjuku Nishiguchi and Shinjuku 3-Chome, offer fast connections on foot, which further expands transport options.
Main lines accessible from Shinjuku
The Odakyu line
Accessible from South Gate (2F) or Central West Gate (B1F), the Odakyu line is ideal for reaching Hakone, Enoshima or Shimokitazawa. The Odakyu Romance Car, a comfortable express train, connects Shinjuku to Hakone in about 90 minutes.
The Keio Line
From B1F level, the Keio Line leads west of Tokyo, including Mount Takao. Approximately 50 minutes is enough to reach Takaosanguchi, the starting point for hiking.
The Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line
This line, recognizable by its red colour, joins via the West Gate. It serves Ginza, Korakuen and Tokyo Dome City, emblematic places for shopping and leisure.
The lines Toei Oedo, Toei Shinjuku and Keio
All of them are accessible by the South Gate (2F) and reach areas such as Roppongi or Jimbocho. Their combination with the same access simplifies the correspondence.
The Seibu Shinjuku line
Slightly off-site, it is a few minutes’ walk from the East Gate (B1F). It leads to Takadanobaba, Waseda and Kawagoe, a historic city renowned for its shrines and traditional atmosphere.
Identify outputs and quick access
The South Gate is recommended for travellers with luggage, thanks to its escalators.
The West Gate facilitates access to the Marunouchi and Odakyu lines.
The East Gate is the most convenient option to reach the Seibu line.
Coloured panels (blue for Odakyu, red for Marunouchi, pink for Keio) help to orientate.
Restaurants near the train station
A few minutes’ walk away are emblematic places of local gastronomy. Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai offer an immersion in Tokyo’s retro atmosphere, while establishments such as Sushi Miyako or Ando offer refined culinary experiences.
Hotels close to Shinjuku Station
Several high-end hotels are located in the area, including Keio Plaza Hotel, Hilton Tokyo and Hyatt Regency. Their location allows you to enjoy comfort while staying close to the train station and lively areas.
Tips to avoid getting lost
Shinjuku Station has more than 200 outputs. To minimize confusion, it is recommended to identify signs in English and Japanese, memorize the colours associated with the lines, and track signs to the main outputs. In case of doubt, station staff remain available to guide travellers.
Getting around Shinjuku Station requires a minimum of preparation, but once the landmarks are assimilated, the station becomes a strategic starting point for exploring Tokyo and its surroundings. The many connections, restaurants and services make it an essential place for any stay in the Japanese capital.
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