One of the best parts of Tokyo’s nightlife is just experiencing it. Neon lights and video displays cover the buildings like you’ve never seen before. Once you’ve decided it’s time for a drink, the options are endless.
Many traditional Japanese bars operate a bit differently from those in the West. When you enter, you take a seat at the bar and run up a tab, paying after your last drink. No one stands in these bars, and paying as you go is quite unheard of.
On the other hand, some bars have been set up to cater more to the Western style of nightlife. Known as standing bars, these venues are a bit nightclub-like with few or no seats. One notable spot in Ginza is the 300 Bar, where everything from pizzas to spirits costs just 300 yen.
If the quirkiness of Japanese bars isn’t your thing, there are plenty of UK/Irish and Belgian-style pubs around, as well as a few microbreweries and beer halls. Three suburbs not to miss on any Tokyo nightlife trip include Ginza and neighboring Shimbashi. Roppongi is probably the best-known nightlife area to Western tourists. The area is wall-to-wall with bars and nightclubs. Roppongi is famous for being home to Tokyo’s Hard Rock Cafe and many hostess clubs where Western women are employed to entertain Japanese businessmen. Needless to say, Roppongi can also have a sleazy feel to it.
Tokyo’s nightlife extends far beyond these areas. Shibuya is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and izakayas (Japanese pubs) catering to a younger crowd. Harajuku offers a mix of trendy bars and unique themed cafes, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district is famous for its vibrant nightlife, including karaoke bars, nightclubs, and entertainment establishments that stay open until the early hours of the morning.
For a more relaxed evening, head to Golden Gai in Shinjuku, a historic area with narrow alleys lined with tiny bars and eateries, each with its own unique atmosphere and theme. These bars typically accommodate only a handful of patrons, creating an intimate and cozy environment.
No matter your preference, Tokyo’s nightlife has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable experience after the sun sets in Japan’s bustling capital.