"Man, Shinjuku has got me all turned around with its maze of exits! Seriously, every time I go, I find myself scratching my head. And don't even get me started on the names, they're like a tongue twister – Central East Exit, East Exit, and all these other confusing variations." (Australian man)

"I couldn't believe how speedy everyone was walking! They didn't even slow down on the moving walkway!" (Italian woman)

"Shinjuku Station is a real puzzle with its numerous routes and elusive exits. I was always amazed to see people confidently striding towards their destinations. It's not just a hotspot for downtown areas and department stores; there are also bustling offices all around. The station is literally surrounded by towering buildings, making it a hectic hub teeming with tourists, shoppers, and businessmen." (American man)

Shinjuku Station is the mother of all terminal stations in Japan. It's a major junction for various train lines, including the JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, Odakyu Odawara Line, Keio Line, and Toei Oedo Line. In 2019, it set a record for JR East with a mind-boggling average of 775,386 passengers per day.

Believe it or not, there are nearly 200 exits sprawling throughout this station. No wonder it's earned the title of the world's busiest station and its notorious nickname, The Dungeon. So, as the Australian bloke mentioned earlier, it's no surprise that finding your way and avoiding confusion can be a major challenge.

Even the locals struggle to navigate the labyrinthine station, thanks to the oh-so-similar names like Central East Exit and East Exit. Even if you rely on a map, the station is a complex beast that can leave you feeling utterly lost and perplexed.

Shinjuku Station attracts a diverse crowd, ranging from students to corporate warriors. It's a favorite haunt for bustling business folks who always seem to be in a hurry, darting around the station like there's no tomorrow.

"Talk about convenience! Shinjuku Station is a foodie's paradise with a plethora of restaurants right within its walls. You can indulge in mouthwatering delights without even stepping foot outside the station. And if shopping is your game, well, you're in luck because most of your retail therapy needs can be satisfied right here. They've got shops catering to every taste, making it a super convenient destination." (Italian woman)

"I was stoked to find a bunch of home electronics retailers and used camera stores in Shinjuku. Japanese cameras are known for their top-notch quality, so even the used ones are a steal. I was on the hunt for an electric razor, and boy, was I blown away by the incredible range of options available." (American man)

As the American guy mentioned, make your way to the west exit of Shinjuku, and you'll stumble upon a little gem known as Electric Town. This spot is a mecca for electronics enthusiasts, with a cluster of big-name stores offering exclusive items you won't find anywhere else. From cutting-edge gadgets to wallet-friendly prices, it's a haven for spontaneous purchases you didn't even plan for.

The electronics stores in Shinjuku are no strangers to dealing with tourists. They've got you covered with English, Chinese, Korean, and more, splashed across their floor information boards and signboards. Plus, they offer free Wi-Fi and a nifty service that delivers your purchases straight to the airport before you jet out of Japan. So, shop till you drop, my friend, without worrying about lugging around a gazillion bags.

Now, let's talk about Shinjuku Golden Gai, a trendy hotspot situated in 1-chome, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku. It's a dining district that oozes charm with its post-war wooden structures. Stepping into this lively neighborhood will transport you to a bygone era, evoking a sense of nostalgia and old-world Japanese vibes that'll leave you captivated.

"When I first visited Shinjuku Gyoen, I was shocked that there is so much nature near the station in the big city. Cherry blossom season is especially wonderful." (Australian man)

When it comes to Shinjuku, most folks, whether locals or visitors from overseas, picture a concrete jungle with towering skyscrapers. But tucked away in the heart of Shinjuku lies the stunning Shinjuku Gyoen, a sprawling oasis of greenery.

This beautiful garden boasts a harmonious blend of European-style landscapes, ornamental gardens, and traditional Japanese designs across its vast 58.3-hectare expanse. With over 10,000 trees, it has rightfully earned its reputation as one of Japan's top cherry blossom viewing spots, attracting hordes of visitors during the blooming season. Just like the Aussie dude mentioned earlier, tourists flock here, with some even making special trips to Japan solely to experience the magical cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

"Shinjuku lights up like a starry wonderland after dark. The buildings dazzle with vibrant and mesmerizing colors. Personally, I loved that captivating night view of Shinjuku from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatory." (Australian man)

"Let me tell you, the sheer scale of those advertisements on the buildings in Shinjuku blew my mind! It was like stepping into a near-futuristic world I had only seen on TV. And the individual building lights? Talk about a powerful sight!" (Italian woman)

Shinjuku is a skyscraper haven, and when night falls, the magic truly begins. Many of the shops within these towering structures keep their doors open late, allowing you to revel in a panoramic night view. For the ultimate vantage point, head straight to the observatory of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. With two observatories, one in the north and one in the south, you'll be treated to different perspectives that will leave you in awe. Another fantastic spot to witness the nocturnal landscape is the Shinjuku Nomura Building Observation Lobby, offering a stunning vista overlooking the bustling office district. It's no wonder it's a beloved destination for countless visitors seeking the beauty of Shinjuku at night.

There are so many fun discoveries waiting for tourists. Shinjuku is a city where you can enjoy cutting-edge entertainment, and it is ever-changing. You won't want to miss it!

* The information in this article is current as of October 2020.