Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
We've compiled the best of the best in Shinjuku - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Though there's jazz here most nights, on Friday evenings, the basement of this club is the place to be for nearby, sister-property Jazz Spot Intro's jam sessions. You can enjoy Tokyo's take on Italian food while you're waiting for the music to start.
This could very well be the world's smallest jazz club. An evening here is like listening to live jazz in your living room. Live acts are trios at most, with no space for a full set of drums or amplifiers. Simple, homemade Japanese cooking (free of charge) helps make this a truly intimate experience. With 10 seats and no standing allowed, reservations are recommended. Entry costs ¥3,500–¥4,500.
This small basement jazz joint hosts many up-and-coming acts from around Tokyo nightly. Though these jam sessions often don't cost more than the price of a drink; other nights, when well-known acts are playing, there's a cover charge. Either way, this place provides some of the best jazz experiences in Tokyo, particularly during Saturday evening jam sessions. A Friday night jam session and other events are held at its sister location, the Cotton Club, which has more space and serves Italian food.
They say that most major jazz musicians have played at least once in this classic Tokyo club now tucked into a basement. It stages mostly mainstream fare with the odd foray into the avant-garde. The emphasis here is strictly on jazz—and the place resembles a small concert hall. Entry runs ¥3,000 in the evenings and includes a drink. Some shows are pricier, and you might want a reservation.
