In Tokyo, weekends mean one thing: party time. The city is bursting with all kinds of after-hours spots to suit every taste, from mingling with locals to dancing in the lively LGBT area or indulging your inner gamer at a themed bar. With so many choices, it can be daunting to dive in, especially if your Japanese isn’t up to par. But fear not! Here are 10 of the best bars in Tokyo for foreigners where you can enjoy a drink until the wee hours without worrying.
Ginza 300 Bar
Ginza’s 300 Bar is a hotspot where half the crowd is local office workers and the rest are from all over. They specialize in international vibes and great deals, offering cocktails for just ¥300, and even got recognized for their top-notch mojitos by the Cuban Embassy. Pro tip: Swing by between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to snag high-quality spirits for the same low price.
Berry’s at Just Another Space
Berry’s is a secret gem tucked away in Nakameguro and it’s one of the best clubs in Tokyo for foreigners, as it’s not overrun by tourists. You won’t find much info online, adding to its allure. Usually, folks discover it through word of mouth, giving it a cozy house party vibe rather than a regular bar feel. Housed on the third floor of Just Another Space studio rental warehouse, it’s the spot to hit on a Saturday night, with the fun starting around 10 p.m. Drink prices are standard, roughly ¥700 for a Sapporo beer, but the best part? Table tennis is on the house!
Bar Ghetto
For a cozy, local Japanese bar vibe with an international touch, swing by Bar Ghetto, hidden behind Shimokitazawa’s Suzunari theatre. It’s one of the best bars in Tokyo that’s snug, as it fits only around 10 people, but that’s part of its charm—perfect for mingling with locals. The bartender speaks English, serving up all your favorite drinks. Popular with local expats, it’s a hotspot to gather insider tips on where to go next.
New Sazae
Nestled on the second floor of a simple building in Shinjuku Ni-chome, New Sazae is the oldest disco bar around, kicking off in 1966. It’s a haven for disco lovers and social butterflies alike, drawing in a diverse crowd from all over. Ni-chome, known for its cultural mix, welcomes everyone, LGBT or not. If you’re hitting up this lively area, New Sazae should be on your list.
Beat Cafe
In Shibuya’s Dogenzaka love hotel area, you’ll find Beat Cafe, a beloved spot for both locals and expats alike. This cozy basement bar offers affordable drinks, indie rock vibes, and stays open late. Whether you’re kicking off your night or winding down after hitting Shibuya’s clubs, Beat Cafe’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly crowd make it a go-to spot.
8bit Cafe
Unleash your inner geek at 8bit cafe, a hidden gem on the fifth floor of a quirky building in Shinjuku. This retro game bar is a gamer’s paradise, adorned with gaming decorations everywhere you look. But the fun doesn’t stop there – you can play Super Nintendo games for a small fee and sip on themed drinks like the “Dr. Mario” and “Princess Peach’s Temptation.” After all, what’s a list of Tokyo bars without a touch of video game excitement?
Aoyama Tunnel
Aoyama Tunnel is an underground spot perfect for dance music lovers and night owls, open from 8 p.m. until 10 a.m. most days. Specializing in house and techno beats spun on vinyl all night, it draws a diverse crowd but is especially loved by Europeans. With reasonable cocktail prices and English-speaking staff, ordering your favorite drink is a breeze, making it an ideal spot for those seeking something niche.
Albatross G
Navigating Tokyo nightlife for foreigners can be tricky due to some bars being exclusive to Japanese patrons, a practice legally allowed in Japan. However, Albatross G in Kabukicho welcomes transient clientele for a ¥500 entrance fee. Tucked within the bustling red-light district, this compact two-story bar offers world-class cocktails amidst the chaos of Kabukicho, making it a welcoming spot to drink until dawn.
Ruby Room
Ruby Room is a go-to spot in Shibuya’s bustling nightlife scene. With live music events all week, many organized by foreigners, it’s a lively hub. Despite its simple setup, drinks are affordable at around ¥600, the music rocks and the atmosphere is always welcoming and inclusive. What else could you ask for?
Good Beer Faucets
Craft beer, which is like handmade beer with unique flavors, is a fresh idea in Japan, although it’s common in places like America and Europe. Good Beer Faucets in Shibuya is a top spot for craft beer in Tokyo and draws lots of people from different countries.
Find Your Favorite Bars in Tokyo Today
Explore Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife scene with these top spots catering to all tastes, from cozy local bars to lively dance clubs and retro game hangouts. Whether you’re a music lover, a gamer, or a craft beer enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the fun – discover your new favorite hangout and immerse yourself in the excitement of Tokyo’s after-hours culture today!