Shinjuku Tsunahachi
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About
Tsunahachi has been serving authentic tempura since 1924 and is a Shinjuku landmark. Unlike the ultra-expensive tempura houses of Ginza, it remains relatively accessible while maintaining high standards. They use a proprietary blend of pure sesame oil, which gives the tempura a distinct, rich aroma and a slightly darker, crunchier batter. The chefs fry the items in batches and serve them immediately to your plate. Their lunch sets are an excellent value. The original main store has a traditional atmosphere with wooden counters that makes you feel the history of the Taisho era.
Highlights
- Classic tempura since 1924
- Freshly fried seafood and veg
- Casual yet historic vibe
- Central Shinjuku location
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Ichiran Shinjuku
The world's most famous 'solo dining' ramen shop. Upon entering, you use a vending machine and then fill out a 'customization sheet' where you choose your broth richness, garlic level, noodle firmness, and spice level. You then sit in a private 'Flavor Concentration Booth' separated by partitions, where your ramen is served through a bamboo curtain by a pair of hands. This system is designed to remove all distractions so you can focus entirely on the taste of the tonkotsu broth. The Shinjuku branches are open 24/7, making them the ultimate late-night food stop.
Isomaru Suisan (Shinjuku)
A boisterous, high-energy 24-hour seafood izakaya that feels like a seaside fish market. The tables are equipped with portable gas grills (hamayaki), allowing you to grill your own scallops, giant prawns, and their signature 'Kani Miso' (crab brain in the shell) right at your seat. It is famous for its fresh sashimi platters and cheap beer. The atmosphere is loud, smoky, and fun—a quintessential Japanese drinking experience. It’s a great spot for an affordable late-night seafood feast or a casual drinking session with friends in the heart of Shinjuku.
Gyukatsu Motomura (Shinjuku)
Motomura focuses on a single dish: Gyukatsu, or deep-fried beef cutlet. The beef is coated in fine breadcrumbs and flash-fried for only 60 seconds, leaving the center rare. Each guest is provided with a small personal stone grill (shichirin) to sear each slice to their own liking. The set comes with barley rice, grated yam (tororo), and a variety of dipping salts and sauces. The sizzle of the beef on the grill and the tender, fatty texture of the meat make it a sensory delight. Be prepared for long lines at their small basement locations.
Hanazono Shrine
A hidden spiritual oasis located just steps away from the neon chaos of Shinjuku's Golden Gai and Kabukicho. For centuries, it has been the protector shrine of Shinjuku and a patron of the arts. It is particularly famous for its 'Tori-no-Ichi' fair in November, where thousands of people come to buy 'Kumade' (lucky bamboo rakes) to bring business prosperity. The shrine's bright vermillion buildings and peaceful courtyard provide a sharp contrast to the surrounding nightlife district, making it a favorite spot for locals to find a moment of quiet reflection.
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