Godzilla in Shinjuku: for kaiju thrills and a monstrous photo opportunity

The "life-sized" Godzilla statue peers over Kabukicho and shows off its impressive manicure!

Get ready to have a monster of a time! Towering above Tokyo’s bustling Kabukicho district in Shinjuku is a jaw-dropping, life-sized Godzilla Head, an iconic and must-see landmark for fans and tourists alike. This quirky statue is a massive, intricately detailed recreation of Japan's most famous movie monster, forever immortalised in a spectacular yet unexpected location. As you emerge into Kabukicho's vibrant streets, you can't miss the sight of Godzilla's menacing head peering over the rooftop of the Shinjuku Toho Building, a perfect blend of pop culture and urban landscape. The experience is both thrilling and surreal, offering a unique photo opportunity and a nod to Japan's rich cinematic history. It's an absolute must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Tokyo's playful, cinematic, and slightly bizarre side.

Getting there – where is the Godzilla head?

It's hard to miss the Godzilla head when you're in Shinjuku, but don't forget to look up!

• Nearest station: The closest station is Shinjuku Station (新宿駅) on the JR Yamanote, Chuo, and Saikyo lines (5-10 mins' walk), as well as several private railways and subway lines. It's also easily accessible from Seibu-Shinjuku Station (西武新宿駅) (around 3 mins' walk).

• By taxi: A taxi can drop you off directly in front of the Shinjuku Toho Building, where the Godzilla Head is located. The street is a busy thoroughfare, but access is easy.

• Accessibility: The walk from the station is flat and straightforward, making it highly accessible for most visitors. The Godzilla Head is located on the 8th floor of the Hotel Gracery, accessible by a dedicated elevator.

Opening hours & best time to visit

Godzilla keeps a watch over Shinjuku right around the clock.

• Opening hours: You can see the Godzilla Head from the ground 24 hours a day. The terrace on the 8th floor of the hotel remains closed following security issues (and bad behaviour by some wayward tourists) but you can get a closer look and visit the Hotel Gracery's Godzilla exhibit in the hotel lobby and lounge.

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit is at night when Godzilla's eyes light up and a special sound and light show takes place every hour, on the hour.

• Time to avoid: Early morning is very quiet, but since the lights and special effects aren't on, it’s less visually impressive than at night.

Reservations & admission

Experiencing Godzilla from below won't cost you a single yen!

• Reservations: No reservations are needed to simply stroll through Shinjuku and marvel and this kaiju wonder from below.

• Admission price: You don't have to pay to see Godzilla from the street or to enter the hotel lobby. You will be expected to purchase a drink if you want to enter the lounge.

• Payment method: Purchases in the Gracery Lounge are cashless – no cash or travel cards (Suica / Pasmo) accepted.

What can you see & do at the Godzilla Head?

The Godzilla Head is the main attraction, a massive, highly-detailed sculpture that stands at 12 meters tall, the exact height of the original Godzilla from the first film. It’s located on the rooftop of the Shinjuku Toho Building. It’s a fantastic place to just wander and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Kabukicho.

• The Godzilla Head itself: Take photos from the street below for a sense of scale, or go up to the 8th-floor hotel lobby for a close-up encounter.

• Take a break in the Gracery Lounge: The upscale Hotel Gracery Lounge has an extensive menu of drinks and an up-close view of Godzilla.

• Godzilla exhibition and merchandise: The gift shop on the ground floor of the Toho Building offers a wide range of Godzilla souvenirs, from toys to t-shirts. The Hotel Gracery lobby area also has a Godzilla exhibition.

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Japansophy’s top tips!

• Time your visit: The best time to see the Godzilla Head is after dark. At the top of every hour, from 12 pm to 8 pm, the head roars and its eyes light up in a short, fun spectacle.

• Explore the area: Don't just stick to the head! The entire Kabukicho district is a spectacle in itself, full of neon lights, unique restaurants, and exciting entertainment.

• Check out the view: While the terrace is currently closed, the Gracery Lounge still offers a unique bird's-eye view of the Kabukicho district as well as unique, tempting and very instagrammable seasonal drinks.

Facilities:

You'll have no problem finding the facilities you need in Kabukicho.

• Eating & drinking: You'll find a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the surrounding Kabukicho district. While on the pricier side, the Gracery Lounge on the 8th floor of the Toho Building (and right beside our monster pal) has an extensive drinks menu.

• Toilets: Public restrooms are available inside the Toho Building and at nearby facilities.

• Baby-changing facilities: These are available in the Toho Building and larger shopping complexes in Shinjuku.

Other attractions nearby: from upscale to historical!

There's plenty to keep you busy in the area.

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A sprawling park featuring three different garden styles (Japanese traditional, English landscape, and French formal), perfect for a peaceful escape.

• Omoide Yokocho: Known as "Memory Lane," this atmospheric alleyway is packed with tiny, traditional eateries serving yakitori and other local favourites.

• Golden Gai: A tiny network of six narrow alleys with over 200 miniature bars, each with a unique theme. It's an iconic spot for a late-night drink and an authentic experience.  

  
  

Ready to meet monsters, explore beautiful gardens and knock a few back with the locals? Our Tokyo itineraries guide you through the best of Shinjuku, ensuring a day packed with cultural marvels and fun!