The latest edition of a guidebook on the Shinjuku Golden-gai area in Tokyo has been released, reflecting changes to the neighborhood's bar and restaurant scene since the first edition was published in 2015.
Published by Shinjuku Ward-based publisher H14 Inc., "Imakoso Ikitai! Shinjuku Golden-gai" (Now is the time to go to Shinjuku Golden-gai!) features 229 bars and restaurants -- 11 more than the previous edition -- and includes photos of the area from past eras.
Golden-gai is said to have originated as a black market that relocated from an area in front of Shinjuku Station immediately after the end of World War II. The neighborhood picked up its name around 1965 and was frequently visited by writers Kenji Nakagami and Ryuzo Saki. In recent years, its vintage townscape has attracted a growing number of foreign tourists.
There are currently about 280 bars and restaurants in Golden-gai, of which 229 are featured in the guidebook. In addition to basic details such as business hours, business days off and number of seats, the book overviews specialty dishes at some of the restaurants such as curry rice, crab meat croquette, and kushiage skewered deep-fried meats and vegetables.
It also educates readers on the area's history through commentary by bar and restaurant owners, a map of the area from about 40 years ago, and old photos, including one of decommissioned Toei Streetcar (Toden) tracks that were used in the area around 1971.
"I hope readers will discover restaurants and bars they like while learning about the area's history," said editor Isshi Akagi, 34.
The guide is available at bookstores near Shinjuku Station and other outlets for 1,500 yen. For more information, call H14 Inc. at (03) 5361-8015.
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