Robot Restaurant is a modern-day cabaret show that has become one of Japans top tourist attractions.
The live entertainment is a crazy combination of eastern and western pop culture, modern dance, light-shows, Japanese mecha, and live anime! The only way to truly describe Robot Restaurant is that, it is a type of modern-day Kabuki.
The 90-minute spectacle is divided into four acts that feature an array of friendly and heroic creatures who have to fend off an invasion by the Evil Robot Empire or something — to be quite honest we weren’t really sure what was going on, but we loved every minute of it!
However, visitors shouldn’t expect a typical dining experience, as it’s more about the show than food. While meals are available for an extra charge, you can also buy refreshments and snacks between each act.
If you ever find yourself in Tokyo and have a few minutes to spare, with a few bucks to spend, Robot Restaurant should be on your to-do list when visiting Tokyo. It is something that is purely Japanese and something you can only see in Japan.
(Tip: Eat before you watch the show, so you can focus on the amazing performances and animatronics.)
ROBOT RESTAURANT
160-0021 1-7-1 Kabukicho Shinjuku Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Hours: 3:30pm—11:30pm Daily
Phone:+81 3-3200-5500
Web: www.shinjuku-robot.com
Book the best Robot Restaurant rates from Klook!
Check out Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48 or 72 Hours) rates from Klook.
First Things First
Robot Restaurant first opened its doors in 2012, and over the years, it has become a sort of icon for the Shinjuku ward (the major entertainment and red light district of Tokyo).
The show is pretty much family friendly but maybe too mature for very young children.
Shows start early evenings with 4 performances per day.
ROBOT Restaurant Showtime Schedules:
- 1st Performance: 4:00pm (doors open 3:00pm)
- 2nd Performance: 5:55pm (doors open 5:00pm)
- 3rd Performance: 7:50pm (doors open 7:00pm)
- 4th Performance: 9:45pm (doors open 9:00pm)
Reservations are recommended, as the show typically sells out very quickly.
Regular bookings and walk-ins will cost you ¥8,000 (₱3,074.04) and an additional ¥1,000 for a bento box meal.
We booked our reservation with Klook and took advantage of their special discount price for only ₱2,048
You can also check the local hotels and inns around Shinjuku for discounted promo rates to shows.
We recommend utilizing Japans efficient and timely public transportation systems when visiting Japan.
The easiest way to commute to Robot Restaurant is via Subway, you can take the Marunouchi Line or M line and exit Shinjuku Station from there it’s a five-minute walk to Robot Restaurant.
(If you are using the JR Line, take the Chou Line to Shinjuku Station.)
Regulations are strict, people with the following will not be admitted:
- wearing sunglasses,
- intoxicated,
- visible tattoos,
- in costume (e.g. cosplay, wigs)
The show is also not suitable for customers with epilepsy.
Children under the age of 3 are free and you must check in at least 30 minutes before the show starts.
What To Expect
Robot Restaurant is really easy to find, just search for two giant mechanized lady robots right outside of the theatre. You can take photos with them too.
Near the entrance, there is usually an employee who will direct you where to purchase tickets which is right across from the main theatre.
Once inside fall in line and show your reservation to the cashier.
You will then be instructed to head to the main lobby or waiting area which is a spectacle in itself. the room is decked out in flashy disco lights and extravagant chairs. You can purchase alcoholic beverages from a small bar at the end.
Guests are entertained by live music while waiting for the show to start.
At the start of every act, you will have a chance to purchase refreshments and snacks on the stage floor.
Saké and beer are also available.
The seating is pretty tight and hard to move around so be prepared, and try to request a seat at the top middle row, to get the best view of the robots.
Popcorn and drinks are sold before each act.
Once the show starts, get ready for a grand spectacle of flashing lights and amazing costumes!
Actors mount giant robotic floats that play music and have an array of flashing LED lights.
Some floats, even breath fire.
The detail and work that goes into the robots and floats are pretty amazing.
And each Act is better and quirkier than the last.
Combined with very talented performers, the show climaxes into a dizzying array of lights and sounds that you’ll never forget.
(We were singing the theme song out loud for days after the show, it’s that catchy.)
Final Thoughts
The show was exciting and the performers were amazing, not to mention the incredible work and detail put into every robot and float.
The best part about Robot Restaurant is that you don’t even have to speak or understand Japanese to have a good time.
If you ever find yourself in Japan, we highly recommend Robot Restaurant. While quirky and a tad bit cheesy, it is something that is quintessentially Japanese and something you can only experience while in Tokyo!
Just kick back relax and enjoy the show — Kawaii!
ROBOT RESTAURANT
160-0021 1-7-1 Kabukicho Shinjuku Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Hours: 3:30pm—11:30pm Daily
Phone:+81 3-3200-5500
Web: www.shinjuku-robot.com
Book the best Robot Restaurant rates from Klook!
Check out Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48 or 72 Hours) rates from Klook.
Live an Awesome Life,
SEAN NOLAN of Team Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: Our visit to Robot Restaurant was courtesy of Klook. I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.
P.S. Make sure to catch the first shows as that is the only time you are allowed to take photos with the robots.