Shin-Okubo Overview
Shin-Okubo, located in Shinjuku ward, is Tokyo’s vibrant Korean district. Popular among the youth, its streets are alive with Korean restaurants, shops, and a diverse mix of cultures, including communities from Asia and the Middle East.
The Transformation of Shin-Okubo
Once a struggling area, Shin-Okubo evolved thanks to its immigrant communities:
- 1980s: South Korean workers settled, creating the predominant Korean presence.
- 2010s: Foreign residents from Southeast Asia and the Middle East added diversity, with halal food stores in Islam Yokocho.
- Little Chinatown: A small Chinese neighborhood emerged alongside other communities.
Korean Food, K-Pop, and K-Beauty
Centered around Okubo-dori and Shin-Okubo-dori streets, visitors can experience:
- Korean cuisine: From street food like hotteok and bibimbap to Korean barbecue. Spicy dishes with melted cheese are common, and the Seoul Ichiba food market offers fresh groceries and kimchi.
- K-pop merchandise: Stores like Idol Park sell CDs, posters, and accessories featuring famous artists.
- K-beauty shops: Reflecting South Korea’s passion for skincare and makeup products.
Nightlife and Entertainment
As night falls, bars stay open late, and colorful signs light up the streets. Love hotels near Kabukicho add to the mix of entertainment options in this lively district.
