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In our opinion, there is no better way to end a long day of sightseeing in Tokyo, Japan than with sake, a Japanese whiskey or local craft beer. As luck would have it, there are a multitude of fun Tokyo bars where tourists can sip, swirl and sip some more!
Since our Tokyo Itinerary was crammed full of top tourist attractions and neighborhood navigation, we veered away from Tokyo nightlife that crept into the wee hours of the morning. Instead, we steered ourselves to the Best Bars in Tokyo for a fun end-of-day beer or an evening cocktail.
10 Fun Tokyo Bars for Travelers
The bars in Tokyo are as intriguing, unique and fun as the city itself. From classic Tokyo pubs to bars-with-a-view to sake tastings to quirky establishments, Tokyo bars do not disappoint. This list features our top picks of places to drink in Tokyo, Japan!
To help fellow travelers find their way, we include a Tokyo Bar Map at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Tokyo Bar Guide for your trip to Japan!
#1 DEATHMATCH IN HELL: Golden Gai Tokyo Best Bar
The legendary Shinjuku bars at Golden Gai provide some of the best nightlife in Tokyo. There are nearly 200 Golden Gai bars jam-packed into six narrow alleys. Most of these themed Tokyo establishments are small – only accommodating a handful of patrons at one time.
Deathmatch in Hell is a Tokyo rock bar in Golden Gai – and one of the best places for tourists to visit. Not a bar we would normally stumble into, it was the two open seats and the scent of popcorn that lured us in.
Heavy metal music blares from the speakers and every inch of the tiny bar is decked out with cult-classic movie posters and DVDs. Despite not being fans of either, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly bartender and were soon chatting with fellow bar patrons.
Tips for Golden Gai Tokyo Best Bars
Golden Gai is home to some of the best bars in Shinjuku…and in all of Tokyo, for that matter. Some bars charge a cover to enter (which should be clearly marked on the door) and a few places ban tourists from entering altogether (so if you see ‘No Foreigner’ signs, keep walking).
The hours of operation can be a bit confusing and most of the Tokyo Shinjuku nightclubs don’t open until after 9:00pm, so plan accordingly.
When we arrived in the famous district with a list of the best Tokyo bars in Golden Gai, many recommended establishments were closed. We chucked the list and wandered the alleys on our own, allowing our intuition to lead us to the best Golden Gai bars.
Since seeking out the top Tokyo bars in this area can be a bit of hit-or-miss, consider joining a local guide and fellow travelers on a Golden Gai Tour that features the best bars in Shinjuku!
#2 MEISHU CENTER SAKE: Best Sake Bars Tokyo
Sampling Japan’s national beverage, Sake, is an absolute must when visiting Tokyo! Although the fermented rice wine is readily available in all Tokyo bars and stores, we weren’t sure where to start. Sweet or dry? Hot or cold? Understanding sake helps novice drinkers have a more enjoyable sake experience.
To get an informal introduction to sake, we visited the Meishu Center Sake. After being briefed by the bartender, we perused the selection of sake available for sampling. Using the helpful tags that indicated sweetness levels, we selected six bottles for our sake tasting and took them to our table. As the bartender poured each glass, he explained a little more about our choices.
Top Sake Tip for Travelers
Visitors interested in getting a better introduction to the Sake culture in Tokyo should consider joining a tasting with a certified sommelier. The in-depth course features 7 sake samples, along with small bites. These small-group tastings are popular, so reserve your seat in advance.
#3 CRAFT BEER BAR IBREW – Best Tokyo Craft Beer Bar
As fans of hoppy beers, we were elated to find several Tokyo craft beer bars serving up pints of tasty Japanese suds. Ahead of the curve, Japanese brewers have been making creative craft beer since the 1990s.
Of the several taprooms we frequented, Ginza bar Craft Beer IBREW quickly became our favorite. This craft beer bar features multiple rotating taps and a chill vibe. The small, cozy space has seats at the bar and tables in the back.
As I tend to be indecisive when it comes to selecting just one beer, I was happy to see Beer Flights at IBREW. Rather than ordering a full pint, I selected three samples and conducted my own Tokyo craft beer bar taste-test!
Tips for Tokyo Craft Beer Bars
Seeking out bars in Tokyo for craft beer can be a bit of a challenge. Mass-produced Asahi still reigns king in the city. In the big and sprawling city, travelers need to intentionally navigate the craft beer Tokyo bar scene.
In our endless quest for good beer, we found our way to Two Dogs Taproom, one of the fun Roppongi bars serving up craft beer. A laid-back, Western-style taproom, Two Dogs is a comfortable space is spread out over two floors. The daily brew selection is printed on a flyer and food is also available; we didn’t try the pizza, but it looked amazing!
#4 KAMIYA BAR – Old-School Tokyo, Japan Nightlife
A legendary establishment, Kamiya Bar ranks as one of our favorite places to drink in Tokyo. The old-school beer hall dates to 1880 and holds the title of being Tokyo’s oldest Western-style bar. Frequented by both locals and tourists, the bright open space, shared tables, and lackluster decor are reminiscent of VFW canteens in America (minus the flags, of course).
The drink-of-choice at Kamiya Bar is their signature Denki Bran – or Electric Brandy. The classic Tokyo cocktail is a house-secret blend of brandy, gin, wine, curacao and herbs. Beware: this tasty concoction goes down easy…too easy.
Another Kamiya classic is a liter – yes, an entire liter – of draft Asahi beer. Many guests – ourselves included – ordered one of each. If you go that route, we suggest ordering a few snack plates, too!
While Kamiya Bar serves up a punch with its drinks, it is soft on the wallet. A small glass of Denki Bran costs 350 yen and a liter of beer is 1300 yen, both of which are incredibly cheap by Tokyo standards!
Top Tips for Traditional Tokyo Bars
We were enamored by the traditional drinking establishments in Tokyo. In fact, we think small standing bars and historic pubs are the best bars in Tokyo for visitors to get a true sense of the Japanese drinking culture. These traditional bars – ones that are heavily rooted in local customs and serve local clientele – are our favorite kind of Tokyo nightlife.
However, not all establishments are welcoming to foreigners. More than once, we passed by local bars bearing signs of No Foreigners. Not to worry, there are plenty of bars in Tokyo that are happy to serve a diverse clientele – and Kamiya Bar is one of the best!
#5 OMOIDE YOKOCHO – Best Tokyo Bar Hopping
Known as the place for yakitori in Tokyo, Omoide Yokocho is also an iconic spot for a cold beer at the end of a long day. Patrons squeeze into these hole-in-the-wall Tokyo eateries to have an after work beer and snack of grilled meat on a stick.
The historic cafes and restaurants at Omoide Yokocho date to the late-1940s, blossoming out of the Tokyo’s post-war wreckage. Today, the crowd is a mix of Tokyo tourists with tired feet and salarymen (white-collar workers) on their way home from work.
Of the more than 60 market-style kiosks, we couldn’t pick a favorite stall. We think Omoide Yokocho is the top place in Tokyo for bar hopping – and it’s best to let your senses lead the way. Walk through the smoke-filled lanes until you find a spot with an open chair and something spectacular sizzling on the grill!
Top Travel Tip for Visiting Omoide Yokocho
At Omoide Yokocho (which is also known as Memory Lane and Piss Alley) eating yakitori and drinking beer go hand-in-hand, as one is rarely ordered without the other.
Travelers could make an entire meal out of yakitori in Omoide Yokocho. In addition to skewers of grilled chicken, menus feature grilled beef, pork, seafood and vegetables, too. Use our guide of What To Eat in Tokyo for more tips!
#6 SHINSHU OSAKE MURA – Local Tokyo Standing Bar
A difficult Tokyo bar to find, Shinshu Osake Mura proved to be well-worth our effort to seek it out. The standing-only, no-frills bar – whose name translates to Alcohol Village – felt about as local as local gets.
It was full during our rainy, Saturday afternoon visit; and we were the sole gaijin at the bar. While tempted to try a sake set, we instead each opted for a bottle of Shiga Kogen – a popular Japanese craft beer.
Shinshu Osake Mura offers both canned and bottled craft beer along with two tap beers. Both craft beer and sake are for sale for on-site consumption, as well as for take-away. On top of it, all the alcohol is sold at extremely affordable prices for Tokyo bars…you just have to find the place!
Top Tips for Standing Bars in Tokyo
Tokyo standing bars are called Tachinomi – and are quite literally bars without seats. Patrons order at the bar and then stand around tables to consume the drinks and snacks. Guests typically stay for just one or two rounds before moving on. The casual and jovial bars are a fun place to meet fellow travelers and locals!
#7 HOPPY STREET TOKYO – Cheap Tokyo Nightlife
Lined with izakaya restaurants that spill out into the lane, Hoppy Street has a lively atmosphere and fun-loving crowd. Located in the Asakusa district to the west of Sensoji Temple, the street is 80 meters long and attracts both locals and Tokyo tourists.
The most popular drink on Hoppy Street (or Hoppy Dori) is the street’s namesake, Hoppy. The cheap, low-alcohol mixer is typically blended with shochu (a strong local spirit), but Hoppy can be mixed into a plethora of cocktails.
The izakaya on Hoppy Street are bustling throughout the day. Among the many establishments, the unassuming Shochan is a top pick.
Hoppy Street Tips
While a concoction made with Hoppy is the best thing to drink, the izakaya on Hoppy Street are also known for cooking delicious stew. Each restaurant serves its own version of beef soup to hungry guests. The bowls of steaming goodness are inexpensive – usually costing around 500 yen.
It’s important to note that while it is fun to bar hop down Hoppy Street Tokyo, most places charge a table fee – so budget travelers might want to stick around for more than one round!
#8 ASAHI SKY ROOM – Rooftop Bar Tokyo
There are numerous Tokyo rooftop bars that dot the skyline, allowing patrons a bird’s-eye view of the sprawling metropolis. Many of these high-in-the-sky bars offer posh and upscale experiences, with steep prices to match. However, when we just wanted an ice cold beer and a fabulous view – we made our way to Asahi Sky Room.
Located on the 22nd floor of the Asahi Brewery headquarters, the Asahi Sky Room offers sensational panoramic views of Tokyo. It is free to enter the Sky Room, but drinks need to be purchased. While certainly not a cheap place to drink in Tokyo, beers start out at 680 yen, the view is phenomenal!
Tips for Visiting the Best Rooftop Bars in Tokyo
In our search for the best bars in Tokyo with a view, we were cognizant of the cost. Most elevated bars also offer beverages at high prices, but the experience might be worth the upcharge. Cocktails at Ce La Vi Rooftop Bar Tokyo and the Four Seasons terrace restaurant are said to be spectacular.
However, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy a drink with a view. Cafe Rion at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a prime example. The 8th floor cafe looks over the Sensoji Temple and Thunder Gate – one of the Top Temples in Tokyo. The casual cafe features an affordable menu of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
#9 GOODBEER FAUCETS – Best Tokyo Happy Hour
We love when good things come together – and that’s exactly what happens at GoodBeer Faucets. Not only does the bar pour an impressive number of craft beers, but they also have a pretty decent happy hour.
With 40 beers on tap, we think GoodBeer Faucets is one of the best bars in Shibuya for craft beer. The excellent weekday happy hour is the cherry on top. The tap list features Japanese craft beer as well as other artisanal beer brewed around the world.
Top Tips for Happy Hour
Drinking in Tokyo is rarely cheap, so we get a little giddy when we find happy hour deals. We discovered limited Tokyo happy hour details online and found it was best to inquire onsite. One Tokyo bar that is well-known for their cheap happy hour specials is HUB. With several locations in Tokyo, HUB bars – which are British-style pubs – offer happy hour discounts on beer and cocktails.
Note: The Mistral Bleu Train Bar was well-known as one of the best dive bars in Roppongi with happy hour specials, but it is now permanently closed.
#10 BAR PLAT – Best Whisky Bars in Tokyo
As much as we like the boisterous atmosphere at the most happening bars in Tokyo, we also enjoy sipping whisky in places that are dimly lit, quiet and completely off the radar.
Bar Plat is the perfect bar to sip a glass of Japanese whisky and savor the sights and sounds of Tokyo. Still a bit of a hidden gem, Bar Plat exudes a cozy atmosphere. Better yet, the bar is stocked with an extensive array of whisky from Japan – and spirits from around the world.
Tips for Tokyo Whisky Tastings
Want a guided introduction to whisky in Tokyo? Join a highly rated tasting session! This small-group tasting experience, which is held in a local bar, introduces participants to the history of whisky in Japan in a fun atmosphere!
Tips for the Best Bars in Tokyo, Japan
Now that you know where to find some of the best Tokyo bars, we have a few tips about drinking in Japan.
Cost of Alcohol in Tokyo
If we haven’t already made it abundantly clear, drinking in Tokyo bars is not cheap! We were determined to find cool bars in Tokyo where we could grab a drink and revel in the atmosphere…without breaking the bank.
As experience-driven travelers, we sought out local Tokyo drinking holes, but couldn’t resist checking out some of the top Tokyo nightlife for foreigners, too. We quickly learned that touristic theme bar drinks come at a steep price. Since our budget prompted us to seek out local haunts, they turned out to be some of our best experiences!
Cocktail Bars
We tend to prefer craft beer and local drinks to handcrafted cocktails, so we didn’t seek out specific Tokyo cocktail bars during our trip. Cocktail aficionados, however, might want to check out the cocktail experience at Gen Yamamoto.
Roppongi Nightlife
The nightlife in Roppongi is legendary. The district is home to some of the most famous nightclubs in Tokyo. While clubbing was not on our list of things to do in Tokyo, travelers looking a fun nightclub should check out V2 Tokyo. Some of the best bars in Roppongi are Abby Road and Agave.
Tokyo Beer Museum: Yebisu Beer
The Museum of Yebisu Beer tracks the history of the beer in Japan, which dates to 1887. The museum is free to tour and there is a tasting room on-site that sells beer and snacks.
Tokyo Pub Crawl
Japan visitors can use our Tokyo Beer Guide to create an epic Tokyo bar crawl – or meet fellow travelers and join a local and other travelers on one of the highly-rated Tokyo Pub Crawl Tours.
Tokyo Bar Map
Use this Google Map to route yourself to all the Best Tokyo Bars!
Tokyo and Japan Travel Guides
We have outlined where to find the best Tokyo drinking holes, but that is just one aspect of planning you Japan trip. Read our other guides for Tokyo and Japan to plan your best vacation!
- Best 2-Week Japan Itinerary
- Top Things To Do in Tokyo – and Amazing Tokyo Food
- Sightseeing Tokyo’s Greatest Temples
- Best of Kyoto Itinerary – including Popular Kyoto Temples
- Mt Fuji and the Five Lakes Region
Organize Your Trip to Tokyo, Japan
As you begin making plans and reservations, organization is key. Use our Travel Planning Printables to stay on top of the important details of your vacation to Japan!
Start planning your trip to Japan! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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