Like a Dragon (Yakuza) in real life: walking Kabukicho, the model for Kamurocho
Published: 2026-10-18
Kamurocho, the city at the heart of SEGA's Like a Dragon (Yakuza) series, is modeled on Shinjuku's Kabukicho. Walk under the red Ichiban-gai gate, past the Godzilla-topped Toho building and into the lanes of Golden Gai.
The short version
| Like a Dragon locations | |
|---|---|
| Main places | Kabukicho, Shinjuku (Ichiban-gai gate, Shinjuku Toho Building, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Golden Gai) |
| How to go | A short walk from JR Shinjuku Station's East Exit; easy to cover on foot |
| Cost | Walking around is free |
| Best time | Evening, when the neon comes on (watch out for touts) |
The red Kabukicho Ichiban-gai gate is the view you know from the box art and trailers. Start your photos here.
Official video
The places
Kabukicho Ichiban-gaiThe red neon arch on Yasukuni-dori, said to be the model for the arch over Kamurocho's Tenkaichi Street.
Shinjuku Toho BuildingA cinema and hotel building in the middle of Kabukicho, with a life-size Godzilla looking over the edge.
Shinjuku Golden GaiAbout 200 tiny bars packed into narrow lanes, said to be the model for Champion District.- The developers are known for building Kamurocho around Kabukicho. When Tokyu Kabukicho Tower opened in 2023, fans pointed out how much it looks like the series' Millennium Tower.
The route
Tap the map to move it
- Kabukicho Ichiban-gai gate — Said to be the model for Kamurocho's Tenkaichi Street arch↓ about 3 min walk
- Shinjuku Toho Building (Godzilla Head) — In the heart of Kabukicho, with Godzilla peering over the top↓ about 2 min walk
- Tokyu Kabukicho Tower — Fans say it looks like the series' Millennium Tower↓ about 7 min walk
- Shinjuku Golden Gai — Lanes of tiny bars; said to be the model for Champion District
- More on the area on our Shinjuku page.
Etiquette and tips
- Ignore touts. Street touting is banned in Kabukicho by local rules. If someone tries to pull you into a bar, just keep walking.
- Don't photograph staff or other customers. Stick to the streets and signs.
- Some Golden Gai bars don't allow photos, and many charge a seat fee. Check the sign at the door before you go in.
Find a hotel in Tokyo (Klook)
Compare and book Tokyo hotels by area and dates, including Shinjuku.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kamurocho a real place?
No, Kamurocho is fictional. It is modeled on Kabukicho in Shinjuku, and the feel and layout of the streets are very close.
Is Kabukicho safe at night?
The main streets are busy and full of visitors. Just don't follow touts or go into bars recommended by strangers.
Will I enjoy it without playing the games?
Yes. Kabukicho's neon and the lanes of Golden Gai are some of Tokyo's best-loved night views.
Official websites
Hours, prices and rules can change. Check the official websites for the latest before you go.
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