Shinjuku
Where to Stay
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
This hotel was pretty nice from memory, it was back in 2019! If you do stay here, then I can recommend a little morning wander to Bakery Donsuke not far away. It was very delicious!
Hotel Rose Garden
I don't think I would recommend this. Like, it was fine, but the room was very small and beds fairly uncomfortable. It's probably fine if you are a solo traveller, or a pair, but with kids it's a no from me dawg. Did have reasonable breakfast included, and nearby konbinis, so perhaps it's mostly the kids factor here.
What to do
Shinjuku Central Park Children's Square
This is fairly specific for "if you have kids". It's a good playground, and they aren't the most plentiful things in the city.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku can be a pretty mad area, so it's nice that you can get a bit of peace and tranquility right here!
Disney Flagship Store
Obviously the Disney Flagship Store is getting a mention! Who wouldn't want a bit more magic in their lives? I'm already going to the parks, should I also go here? YES!
SHINJUKU SUMO CLUB
This was amazing! It's basically a couple of real sumo who put on an exhibition for you, where you have a host who explains the history and rules etc, and then they demonstrate what they are talking about. They then end with a short match and then have like 8 guests dress up in sumo suits and "fight" the sumo. Girls get to win, boys get humbled.
Food
Menya Nishikawa
Ramen. A small place, not a lot of seats, but the food is good and comes fast, and then you can clear out again!
Flipper's
We had this in January 2026 and it was amongst the best fluffy pancakes we've had. Years ago we went to the Shibuya branch and it wasn't as good. So either they are very location dependent, or have improved over the last few years.