Tokyo comes alive at night, offering an incredibly diverse nightlife scene across its many districts. From the flashing neon lights of Shibuya to the speakeasy cocktail bars of Ginza, Tokyo has something to excite every after-dark adventure for foreigners.
The major nightlife districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku and Roppongi each have their own distinctive personalities, but are all brimming with bars, clubs, live music venues and restaurants open late into the night. Beyond the well-known spots, there are hip hidden gems in neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa and Ebisu, offering a more local nightlife experience.
The highlight of Tokyo’s nightlife is the variety. Big, flashy nightclubs bump up against tiny standing bars. Noisy Izakaya share alleyways with serene jazz bars. Whether you want to drink and dance until dawn or find a mellow pub, Tokyo has it covered. The public transport runs all night on weekends too, making bar hopping a breeze.
Tokyo’s size and diversity can seem overwhelming at first. But by starting with the key nightlife districts below, you can begin uncovering the city’s incredible nighttime energy and after-dark adventures. Get ready to experience Tokyo after dark!
Shibuya: Tokyo’s Bright, Bustling Epicenter of Nightlife
The neon-lit streets of Shibuya are the heart and soul of Tokyo after dark. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of giant video billboards and massive crowds bustling through Shibuya Crossing and Center Gai, the main nightlife street buzzing with bars, clubs and karaoke joints that stay open until the first trains start running again at 5am. Don’t miss the iconic Hachiko statue, which is used as a meeting point by Tokyoites enjoying a night out.
Shibuya is home to some of Tokyo’s biggest and most legendary clubs. Massive multi-level megaclubs like Womb and Vision set the standard for Tokyo’s clubbing scene and have helped launch the careers of world-famous DJs. Experience the jaw-dropping production value of their futuristic interiors, bone-rattling sound systems and festival-like party atmospheres. Dance the night away as DJs spin the latest EDM, techno, house and hip hop beats nonstop until the next morning. The energy and vibe is unlike anywhere else in the world.
For those seeking a wild Japanese cabaret club experience, look no further than Shibuya’s Club Asia, New Lex Tokyo and Camelot. Combining spectacular burlesque-style shows with drinking and dancing, these massive clubs embody the excesses of Tokyo nightlife. At Club Asia, let yourself be amazed by the BGM theatrical performance featuring drag queens, dancers, muscular men and pyrotechnics. New Lex Tokyo tempts with sexy dancer runway shows and racy “lingerie pub” vibes. Camelot promises to “present your dreams” with flashy costumes, buzzing dancefloors packed until dawn and over-the-top decor that needs to be seen to be believed.
Shinjuku – Tokyo’s Vibrant and Eccentric Nightlife District
Shinjuku is Tokyo’s largest and busiest nightlife district, located just west of the city center. With its dazzling neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and seemingly endless array of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, it’s easy to see why Shinjuku is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Tokyo after dark. The district has hundreds of options for drinking and dancing the night away.
One of Shinjuku’s most iconic nightlife spots is the Golden Gai, an atmospheric maze of tiny shack-like bars that can seat as few as 5 people at a time. The narrow alleys give this area a quirky, old-world charm, where customers can sip on cocktails and strike up conversations with friendly locals and fellow travelers in the cozy bars. Nearby Kabukicho is Tokyo’s famous red light district, filled with host and hostess bars, nightclubs, love hotels and a buzzing nighttime atmosphere. For a truly absurd spectacle, check out the Robot Restaurant in Kabukicho, which features flashing lights, neon costumes, lasers, robots, dancers, and over-the-top theatrics. The sensory overload is part of the appeal.
With its crazy mix of seedy and sophisticated nightlife options, it’s easy to stay out all night in Shinjuku, whether you want to sing karaoke, explore tiny bars or dance until dawn. The district offers a one-of-a-kind Tokyo nightlife experience.
Roppongi
Roppongi is Tokyo’s upscale nightlife district popular with expats and tourists visiting the city. Located in the stylish Minato ward, Roppongi is home to many high-rise bars and clubs that offer stunning panoramic views over Tokyo.
The iconic Roppongi Hills complex is one of the area’s major nightlife hotspots. This sprawling development contains numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs spread out over multiple floors. Don’t miss the open-air beer garden on the roof of the cityview building, which gives you the perfect vantage point to soak in Tokyo’s sparkling skyline at night with a cold beer in hand.
Some of Roppongi’s most popular nightlife spots include individually themed floors of the cavernous Gaia club and the luxe celebrity magnet Vanity. For a ritzy night out sipping cocktails overlooking the city lights, head up to sophisticated sky lounges like the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo’s Forty Five or the Grand Hyatt’s Oak Door.
After hours, continue the night at one of Roppongi’s hostess clubs and whisky bars tucked away on the area’s backstreets. This is some of Tokyo’s most exclusive nightlife, so be prepared to splurge for a taste of luxury worthy of Roppongi’s upscale reputation.
Ginza
Ginza transforms into a sophisticated nightlife destination after dark. Behind the elegant facades of its high-end department stores and boutiques are dozens of chic cocktail bars hidden away on upper floors. Seek out these speakeasy-style bars for expertly crafted cocktails made with premium liquor and freshly squeezed juices. Bartenders put on a show shaking up innovative concoctions like the Sakura Martini made with sake and cherry blossom liqueur. Sip your drink while taking in panoramic views over the Ginza skyline.
Venture into the backstreets around Ginza and you’ll discover lavish hostess clubs frequented by businessmen, along with whisky bars stocking rare bottles from around the world. Hostesses entertain and pour drinks while patrons relax on plush couches. For a memorable night out, order a top-shelf whisky like Yamazaki 25 years and enjoy live jazz performances. Ginza is the place to enjoy exclusive nightlife far removed from Tokyo’s loud clubs and bars.
Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa, often affectionately referred to as “Shimokita”, is Tokyo’s bohemian hub. Located just a few stops west of Shibuya on the Keio Inokashira Line, Shimokita has an artsy, underground vibe and is one of the best areas of Tokyo to experience live music and alternative culture.
The streets are filled with vintage clothing stores, quirky bars, live music venues, cozy cafes and small theaters. At night, music floods out from the doorways of the live houses as indie bands take the stage. Shows here have an intimate, underground feel where you can get up close with the musicians. Some venues to check out are Shimo-Kitazawa Three which hosts underground rock and punk bands in a tiny space, and UPLINK where you can catch eclectic lineups across genres like jazz, folk and experimental.
In addition to live music, you can also find comedy, improv, theater, dance and other alternative performances at small theaters scattered throughout Shimokita’s backstreets. This is the perfect area to explore Tokyo’s underground creative scene while bar-hopping between live shows. The neighborhood stays lively late into the night as music echoes through the streets. With its distinctive local flavor and artsy vibe, a night out in Shimokitazawa offers an authentic Tokyo experience beyond the neon and crowds of the main nightlife hotspots.
Ebisu
Ebisu is a relaxed, low-key nightlife district popular with locals in Tokyo. The focal point is Yebisu Garden Place, an upscale complex filled with bars, lounges and restaurants surrounding a large open-air plaza. On weekends, locals flock to the plaza’s beer garden to sip drinks under twinkling strung lights. Just steps away is the iconic Ebisu Yokocho alleyway, lined with dozens of tiny bars specializing in yakitori grilled chicken skewers and ice-cold beer. Smoky aromas waft from the yakitori stalls as patrons squash into the narrow bars, laughing and chatting over food and drinks late into the night.
Unlike the massive clubs and crowded streets of Shibuya or Shinjuku, Ebisu offers a more relaxed and intimate nighttime experience. Locals looking to unwind after work without the sensory overload of Tokyo’s busier districts make Ebisu their go-to spot. Low-lighting, soft jazz music, and menu-less bars encourage patrons to unwind over cocktails and slow conversations. For a quintessential Tokyo night out away from the chaos, make your way to Ebisu to eat, drink and make new friends under the glow of lanterns.
Craft Beer Bars
Tokyo’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with cool taprooms and pubs popping up across the city pouring the best of Japan’s booming microbrew culture. Beer lovers should head to these top spots to sample the country’s innovative brews.
Baird Beer Taproom has 4 locations in Tokyo: Harajuku, Nakameguro, Takadanobaba, and Kichijoji where you can find Baird’s full range of beers on tap, from their signature Rising Sun Pale Ale to limited small batch brews. The cozy Harajuku taproom has standing-only counter space while the spacious Takadanobaba outpost offers seating. They offer tasting flights so you can sample a variety.
Popeye in Ryogoku is a legendary Tokyo beer bar with 70 beers on tap and over 200 bottles and cans. They have a constantly rotating selection showcasing beers from top Japanese craft breweries. Grab a seat at the long bar and work your way through their mammoth beer bible. It’s hugely popular so go early to grab a spot.
Goodbeer Faucets in Shibuya lives up to its name, offering 30 taps pouring the best of Japanese craft beer from breweries like Coedo, Hitachino and Swan Lake. The cozy, laid-back bar has an always-changing lineup of brews. Their bar snacks are tasty too. It gets packed on weekends so aim for an early weeknight visit.
Cocktail Bars
Tokyo has a vibrant cocktail culture, with intimate speakeasy-style bars hidden in the city’s maze of streets and alleyways.
Ben Fiddich in Shinjuku sets the standard for serious mixology in Tokyo. The award-winning bar has perfected the craft of the cocktail, with a menu that focuses on brown spirits like whisky, brandy and rum. Sip meticulously crafted cocktails featuring rare Japanese spirits and ingredients as jazz music sets the mood in the dimly-lit, stylish interior.
For cocktails in one of Tokyo’s ritziest neighborhoods, visit Bar High Five in Ginza. Tucked away on the fourth floor of a building without any signage, this tiny bar has an exclusive speakeasy vibe. The bartenders artfully blend flavors like yuzu, green tea and Japanese fruits into precision-made libations. With only a handful of seats at the bar, make reservations in advance.
In contrast, Bar Trench in Ebisu has a grungier feel with punk rock music and earthy, industrial decor. Inspired by World War I-era London, they serve up cocktails inspired by the trenches – strong, spirit-forward drinks that pack a punch. With inventive cocktail menus that change seasonally, Bar Trench keeps the drinks menu fresh and surprising.
Clubs
Tokyo is home to some of the biggest and most iconic clubs in all of Asia. For those who want to dance all night to thumping electronic beats, the mega clubs of Shibuya are an absolute must-visit on any nightlife tour of Tokyo.
The legendary club Womb in Shibuya has become synonymous with Tokyo clubbing. Located right by the busy Shibuya crossing, Womb has 4 floors and a massive dancefloor for revelers to lose themselves in the music. Womb is known for hosting famous international DJs spinning house, techno, drum & bass, and more. On the weekends, the club doesn’t even open until after midnight but rages on until dawn when you’ll finally stagger out to see ShibuyaCrossing buzzing as Tokyo’s commuters start their day.
Another Shibuya icon is Vision, found on the 1st basement floor of a nondescript office building. While it lacks Womb’s extravagant decor, Vision makes up for it with an amazing sound system, innovative lighting and lasers, and world-famous DJs. Dance the night away with the Shibuya crowd and watch the sunrise over the Tokyo skyline from Vision’s outdoor patio.
For EDM fans who just can’t get enough, Camelot is another massive clubbing venue located right in Shibuya’s city center. The interior is futuristic and almost space station-like, with a high tech main dancefloor, chillout lounge, and outdoor patio. Camelot also hosts frequent events bringing international DJs to Tokyo. Rave all night with Tokyo’s passionate clubbers at this Shibuya hotspot.
Tokyo’s mega clubs in Shibuya are temples of dance music that attract partygoers from all over Japan and beyond. Spend an unforgettable night dancing to pulsing beats with Shibuya’s famously passionate crowds. A night at Womb, Vision, or Camelot is a must for anyone looking to experience Tokyo’s buzzing nightlife.
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