Yoyogi South Exit

The south exit of Yoyogi Station feels modest compared to its giant neighbour Shinjuku, but it comes alive after dark. A few narrow streets spill out from the ticket gates, lined with low-key izakayas that glow with paper lanterns once the evening sets in. Office workers often drift over after work, packing into these small venues for yakitori, sake and loud conversation. The flow of people is steady, so by night it feels busy, though not overwhelming. The atmosphere is relaxed yet animated, and it’s one of those places where the mix of lantern light, cigarette smoke and chatter makes you instinctively reach for your camera.