Shinjuku live houses for travelers

Why does the exit matter in Shinjuku?

The two venues are reached from different exits. ANTIKNOCK's directions start from JR Shinjuku's Shin-Minami or South-East Exit, toward Koshu-Kaido Avenue. MARZ's start from Seibu-Shinjuku's North Exit, or from JR Shinjuku's East Exit into Kabukicho. Knowing your exit before you arrive saves time before doors.

How do you get to each venue?

Shinjuku ANTIKNOCK. From JR Shinjuku Station, walk toward Koshu-Kaido Avenue. It is a few minutes from the Shin-Minami or South-East Exit, and also a short walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station.

Shinjuku MARZ. From Seibu-Shinjuku's North Exit, walk toward the railway along Yasukuni-dori Avenue, about a minute. From JR Shinjuku's East Exit, cross into Kabukicho and head straight to the venue, about 5 minutes.

When do Shinjuku shows start?

Start times differ from show to show. The venue table in the JGIG data below shows how many listed shows at each venue start before 5 pm. If you want an early night, compare the start times on the show pages. See Daytime gigs in Tokyo.

Which Shinjuku venues does JGIG not list?

• Nine Spices (Kabukicho): Its official facts are in Shinjuku Nine Spices.
• Shinjuku LOFT (Kabukicho): Its main live floor holds 500 to 550 people, larger than the small rooms JGIG covers.

What should you check before you go?

• Crowd rules at hardcore and punk nights. JGIG's guide says these can get active. Read the event post. See Moshing and diving.
• Photos at idol and other events. Photo rules depend on the act. Flash is usually banned.
• Lockers. MARZ lists coin lockers. ANTIKNOCK's page doesn't say, so bring a small bag.
• Getting home. For last trains from Shinjuku, see Last trains after a gig in Tokyo.

How do you plan a Shinjuku night?

1. Open the venue page on JGIG and look at the upcoming shows.
2. Note the start time and the exit you need.
3. Open the official event page. Check tickets, times and the event notes.
4. Save the map. Both venues are in basements, where reception can be weak.
5. Check your last train before you go in.

What if you are alone, have no Japanese or cash, or buy at the door?

• Going alone: JGIG's solo guide suggests standing near the side bar, where it is easier to ask a quick question.
• No Japanese: The venue page directions are in English. Use the exit names: Shin-Minami, South-East, East, or Seibu-Shinjuku North.
• No cash: Have yen for the drink fee (¥600 at most listed shows) and for MARZ's coin lockers.
• Door ticket: With both venues in Shinjuku, the other can be your backup if one has no space.

What to do next

What to do next