Japan’s got way more to offer than just temples, cherry blossoms, and slurping down sushi and ramen. Yep, there’s a whole other side to this vibrant country, and one of the coolest spots to check out in Kabukichō is the infamous Robot Restaurant.

Forget what you think you know about this area being all about “adult” fun. Sure, Kabukichō has its reputation, but the Robot Restaurant flips that script entirely. Here, it’s all about mind-blowing entertainment that’s fun for everyone.

Step inside and get ready to have your mind blown. Picture this: high-tech laser lights slicing through the air, dancers decked out in sequins and sparkles shimmying across the stage, and robots of every color imaginable doing their thing. It’s like stepping into a futuristic circus, and trust me, you won’t want to blink for fear of missing a single moment.

So, if you’re up for an adventure that’s equal parts dazzling and downright delightful, make sure to add the Robot Restaurant to your Tokyo to-do list. It’s a wild ride you won’t soon forget!

Is It Really a Robot Restaurant?

Nah, it’s nothing like that. Think more along the lines of a medieval fair, but instead of knights and dragons, you’ve got robots, dinosaurs, and ladies belting out tunes while busting some serious moves. And here’s the kicker—it’s totally family-friendly, so you can bring the whole gang without worrying about anything sketchy going down.

Sure, they’ve got some lunchbox-style grub if you’re hungry, but let’s be real—the real draw here is the show. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Buying Tickets For The Robot Restaurant

I searched the internet for ways to get discount tickets for the Robot Restaurant. Fortunately, I was able to get a good deal with Klook. Instead of just getting your ticket for approximately JPY8,000, I got mine for about JPY5,982.76 and it includes an alcoholic beverage.

I suggest purchasing Robot Restaurant tickets in advance from Klook, which offers 30-35% off the standard ticket price.

The Klook website states that the deal includes:

• Robot Restaurant tickets and watch flashy dancers and energetic robots put on a phenomenal show.
• Enjoy the vibrant setting and props integrated into a themed performance.
• Fabulous set pieces will entertain and amaze you throughout your stay
• See performers go into battle with robots accompanied by strobe lights, lasers, an infectious music.
• Get priority access on the Klook Exclusive Lane to quickly enjoy Robot Restaurant.

There are four showtimes daily:

• First Performance: 4:00pm (doors open 3:00pm)
• Second Performance: 5:55pm (doors open 5:00pm)
• Third Performance: 7:50pm (doors open 7:00pm)
• Fourth Performance: 9:45pm (doors open 9:00pm)

Pro tip: Be sure to see the first show for the day. According to friends who also went to Robot Restaurant, they were not able to get pictures with the robots as they were shuffled out after the show too quickly in preparation for the next show.

Once in the Robot Restaurant

• Be sure to bring your mobile voucher or a printout to the ticket counter. This is located just across the Robot Restaurant entrance on Sakura-dori Street. Their crew are just around, ready to assist you.
• Once you present your voucher or confirm yur name on the list, the staff will give you a form. You have to give this to the counter and exchange for tickets. (They included souvenirs – I got a nail clipper that also doubled up as beer bottle opener.

While Waiting For The Show

As instructed, I showed up a good half-hour before the show kicked off. But let me tell you, it’s seriously worth getting there as early as you can swing it. Why? Because the waiting area lounge is an absolute blast.

Picture this: you stroll in and boom, you’re hit with the groovy tunes of a band that’s like Daft Punk’s long-lost robot cousins. They’re decked out in full-on robot gear and jamming out some killer covers. It’s like a concert right there in the waiting area!

And here’s the best part: since you’ve got assigned seats, you can roll in early and snag your spot, or you can take your time and mosey in whenever you feel like it. Totally up to you. But honestly, I’d say it’s worth getting there early just to soak up the vibes and maybe grab a drink or two.

Before The Robot Restaurant Show

• About 5-10 minutes before the show is due to begin, you’re escorted down to the “arena”. It’s actually pretty tight quarters so you’re instructed to quickly take your seat.
• Noise-blocking headphones are being offered prior to the show, I highly recommend taking one as the music can be too loud and hard on their ears.
• It’s shoulder to shoulder but doesn’t matter if you sit in rows one, two, or three. Lights go out and the craziness begins!

Robot Restaurant Show

I didn’t know what to expect when I got the tickets, but I’m extremely glad I did. As to not spoil you here are some things that you can anticipate: Glittery-costumed singers, rainbow-feathered dancers, neon-lit dragon floats, ninjas shredding on electric guitars and of course, several large and impressive robots! The show runs for 90 minutes divided into 3 sets with 10-15 break.  To put it into a few words, it’s weird & spectacular. It will give your senses quite a ride.

Things to Remember Before You Go To The Robot Restaurant

• It’s better if you eat before or after the show as drinks & popcorn are overpriced. So skip the snacks and explore Shinjuku, the neighborhood is cramps with restaurants.
• Food & soda are not allowed inside.
• Flash photography isn’t allowed, smartphones are okay for taking pictures and videos.

How to Get There

Take the East Exit of Shinjuku Station. Walk to the crossing. Cross the street (and don’t go underneath the train tracks), heading towards Kabukicho. Cross the large road at the traffic lights. Don Quijote will be on your right. Turn right and walk one block, then turn left into Sakura-dori Street. The Robot Restaurant is just down the road. You can’t miss it.

Is It Worth It?

If you already think Japan is weird, this will surely attest every stereotype that you have heard about. Though, this does not accurately reflect what ‘Japanese culture’ really is, it gives you a taste of what Japan has to offer aside from their rich history and culture. This show is an elaborate combination of traditional motifs with a kick of Hollywood influence (with tons of neon lights, extravagant costumes, and over-the-top singing & dancing.

Personally, it was wacky, it made no sense, it was the best time I’ve had in years. What a show, worth every bucks.

Robot Restaurant really is an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world, so if you’re in Tokyo, check it out for yourself!

English name: Robot Restaurant
Japanese name: ロボットレストラン
English address: B2F Shinjuku Robot Building, 1-7-1, Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Japanese address: 〒160-0021 東京都新宿区歌舞伎町１−７−１ 新宿ロボットビル B2F
Business hours: Shows: 3:30pm-9:30pm (Phone 10am – 10pm)
Phone: 03-3200-5500
Nearest Station: Seibu-Shinjuku Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line)

DISCLAIMER: Hey there, amigo! At Golden Island Senorita, we’re all about keeping it real and giving you the lowdown you can trust. This review? It’s straight from the heart, based entirely on my own adventure. No freebies, no fancy perks—I paid my own way and didn’t get a dime in return. So rest assured, what you’re getting is 100% genuine, no strings attached!