About
Just outside the west exit of Shinjuku Station, beyond the hustle and bustle, there is a narrow alleyway. This is “Omoide Yokocho,” a place that retains a strong scent of the Showa era. Having risen from the burnt ruins after the war, this place continues to captivate the hearts of many people even today.
Around 1946, street vendors dealing in daily necessities and food began to gather in the war-ravaged area of Shinjuku. During the harsh days of a controlled economy, dishes made with beef and pork offal, which were not regulated items, became popular, and one offal grill shop after another opened their doors. This is the origin of today’s Omoide Yokocho. (shinjuku-omoide.com)
In the narrow alley, about 60 eateries are crowded together, and the savory aroma of grilled chicken and offal fills the air. From the shopfronts lit by red lanterns, the laughter of owners and customers can be heard, and even first-time visitors feel a sense of nostalgia. This alley, while resisting the flow of time, still conveys the warmth and human kindness of the Showa era. (shinjuku-omoide.com)
There used to be shops called “yakitori cabarets,” where a unique culture flourished: hostesses would serve customers as they enjoyed grilled chicken and shochu. Though its form has changed with the times, Omoide Yokocho has always remained a place of relaxation for people. (shinjuku-omoide.com)
In recent years, many foreign tourists have visited, giving the area an international atmosphere. However, every shop continues to welcome guests with the same spirit of hospitality, offering a warm time to all who visit. Omoide Yokocho is a treasure of Shinjuku, connecting the past, present, and future. (guidoor.jp)