If there is any neighborhood that has attained notoriety in Tokyo, it would be Kabukicho. This area north of Shinjuku station is infamous for its many vices: gambling, prostitution and yakuza (Japanese gangsters). There is even a permanently repeating recording by the local police played over neighborhood loudspeakers warning people of the dangers of Kabukicho. While we don’t doubt there are dangers, by global standards, Kabukicho is still relatively safe by day (though at night, it’s better to travel with friends). Skipping Kabukicho completely, you to miss out on some opportunities for good cheap food and some bizarre Japan-only creations like Godzilla’s Head and this alien presiding over a karaoke club.