Tokyo's Nightlife Scene Is A Must-See For Anyone Visiting The City, With An Incredible Variety Of Bars And Clubs Catering To All Tastes.
Here are some insider tips and recommendations for making the most of your time out in Tokyo.
Bars And Clubs
Golden Gai in Shinjuku is a unique area consisting of narrow alleys with tiny bars and pubs that can only accommodate a few customers at a time. It's a great place to experience the local bar scene and meet new people. Some of the bars have cover charges, so it's a good idea to check before entering.
Another must-visit bar is Bar Benfiddich in Shinjuku, a hidden gem known for its unique and innovative cocktails. The bartenders use locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create their drinks, giving them a distinctly Japanese flavor.
For a more high-energy experience, Womb in Shibuya is one of the most popular nightclubs in Tokyo. Known for its impressive sound system and a lineup of international DJs, it's a great place to dance the night away. The club can get crowded on weekends, so be prepared to wait in line to enter.
For a more upscale experience, the New York Bar located on the 52nd floor of the Park Hyatt Tokyo is a must-visit. This bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and is also the bar featured in the movie "Lost in Translation." The cover charge is on the higher side, but the experience is worth it.
Nightlife Experiences
In addition to bars and clubs, there are plenty of other nightlife experiences to try in Tokyo. Attending a live music performance is a great way to experience the city's music scene. Venues like the Blue Note in Minato-ku and the Billboard Live Tokyo in Roppongi host a variety of acts throughout the year, from jazz to pop and rock.
A sake tasting is another unique experience to try in Tokyo. Several sake breweries and bars throughout the city offer tastings and educational experiences. The Kurand Sake Market in Shibuya is a popular spot to try a variety of sake, while the Katsuoji Temple in Mie Prefecture offers a more traditional experience of sake tasting.
For those looking to unleash their inner rockstar, karaoke is popular in Tokyo. There are countless karaoke bars throughout the city, some with private rooms and others with open spaces. It's a fun way to spend an evening with friends, and even if you're not a great singer, nobody will judge you.
Insider Tips
The dress code is important when going out at night in Tokyo. Many bars and clubs have dress codes, so it's important to dress well and avoid wearing sneakers or sandals. Men may also be required to wear a collared shirt.
It's also worth noting that many bars and clubs have cover charges, so be prepared to pay a fee to enter. The cover charge can range from a few hundred to several thousand yen depending on the venue.
Finally, Tokyo's public transportation system stops running after midnight, so make sure to check the last train times before heading out at night. Taxis can be expensive, so it's a good idea to plan your route ahead of time or stay out until the trains start running again in the morning.
Overall, Tokyo's nightlife scene is a unique and exciting experience that shouldn't be missed. From the vibrant energy of clubs like Womb to the cozy charm of Golden Gai, there's something for everyone. Just be sure to dress well, be prepared to pay a cover charge, and plan your transportation ahead of time to make the most of your night out.