Wandering in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Walking in Shinjuku divides neatly around its station.

The west side means business - office towers, government buildings and suited workers rushing between them. Glass elevators whisk visitors up the Metropolitan Government Building for free city views.

East side shifts to entertainment. Kabukicho's neon marks the entrance to Tokyo's largest nightlife district. Tiny Golden Gai bars pack six narrow alleys. Omoide Yokocho offers cramped yakitori spots where smoke drifts from grills.

The station itself, serving millions daily, spreads underground through shopping arcades and countless exits. Getting lost is common.

Hanazono Shrine offers quiet moments between the chaos, while the famous Godzilla head watches over it all from above a cinema.Read more