Shinjuku Station is often called a “dungeon” or “maze,” and for good reason. But the biggest trap for tourists isn’t the crowds—it’s the Toei Oedo Line (Magenta/Ruby Color).
If you look at a subway map, you will see two stations with confusingly similar names:
- Shinjuku Station (E-27)
- Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station (E-01)
Many travelers assume these are just different exits of the same station. They are WRONG.
⚠️ The Critical Warning
“Shinjuku-Nishiguchi” is a completely separate station.
Here is the nightmare scenario we want you to avoid: You are on the Oedo Line, and you want to transfer to the JR Lines or Odakyu Line at “Shinjuku.” You see “Shinjuku-Nishiguchi” on the sign and get off.
- The Trap: You look for a connecting gate to the other lines inside the station… but you can’t find one.
- The Reality: These two Oedo Line stations are NOT connected inside the ticket gates.
If you make this mistake, you have to exit the ticket gate (tap out), walk through an underground passage or go up to the street, and then tap back in at the main Shinjuku Station. It’s a waste of time and money.
🗺️ Visual Guide: Decoding the Signs
Take a look at the signage in Shinjuku (like the photo below). It can be overwhelming.
- Left Arrow: Leads to the Keio Line (Private Railway).
- Right Arrow: Points to the Oedo Line “Shinjuku-Nishiguchi” Station.
- Wait, where is the main Shinjuku Station? It’s often in a different direction entirely!
💡 How to Navigate Like a Pro
To avoid the “Shinjuku Dungeon” despair, follow these simple rules:
1. Know Your Destination
- Go to “Shinjuku Station” (E-27) if you want to transfer to: JR Lines (Yamanote, Chuo), Odakyu Line, or Keio Line.
- Tip: Use the South Exit for the easiest transfer.
- Go to “Shinjuku-Nishiguchi” (E-01) if you want to go to: Uniqlo Shinjuku Flagship, Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), or the Marunouchi Line.
- Tip: This station is better for the North underground passage.
2. The “6” Shape Secret The Oedo Line in Shinjuku is shaped like a number “6” or a lasso. “Shinjuku” and “Shinjuku-Nishiguchi” are physically close (walking distance), but on the train track, they are at opposite ends of the loop!
3. If You Get Lost… Don’t panic. If you get off at the wrong one, go above ground. It is much easier to navigate the streets of Shinjuku (using Google Maps) than to find your way through the underground tunnels.
