10 Best Bars in Tokyo – The Guide Where to Drink

Tokyo’s bar scene is one of the best in the world. From cocktail lounges with views of the Tokyo skyline to hidden whiskey bars, there are plenty of great bars to choose from.

This guide introduces the best bars in Tokyo, helping you uncover the perfect spot to enjoy drinks in Japan’s vibrant capital. Discover your favorite bar and experience the unique charm of Tokyo’s nightlife.

10 Best Bars in Tokyo

Tokyo is home to countless bars, each offering a unique experience. Unlike Izakayas, there are bars with a relaxing atmosphere and bars that are perfect for dates.

Let’s dive the best bars in Tokyo that you must visit.

The Bellwood | Shibuya

The Bellwood is a bar in Shibuya that is consistently ranked among the top bars in Asia.

The bar’s interior, inspired by old Japanese coffee shops, creates a nostalgic atmosphere that transports you back in time. However, don’t let the vintage look fool you – The Bellwood’s cocktail menu is thoroughly modern and innovative.

The chef speaks English and will create a drink to suit your mood. You can also eat creative sushi.

If you want to enjoy cocktails and sushi in an old-style Japanese space, this is the place for you.

Address	41-31 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open	6pm – 2am
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/the_bellwood/

Sky Lounge Stellar Garden | Shibakoen

Located on the 33rd floor of The Prince Park Tower Tokyo in Roppongi, this bar offers stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and Tokyo Tower. The bar is right in front of Tokyo Tower, making it an extraordinary experience to enjoy a drink while watching the tower light up.

Skilled bartenders create both classic and innovative drinks, often incorporating Japanese ingredients to bring out the local flavor.

This is a great bar to visit with your partner on a date or anniversary.

Address	33F, 4-8-1 Shiba Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Open	Sun – Tue : 5pm – 11pm Wed – Sat : 5pm – 1am
Website	https://www.princehotels.com/parktower/restaurants/sky-lounge-stellar-garden/

R Restaurant & Bar at The Gate Hotel | Kaminarimon

Located in The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon, R Restaurant & Bar is a hidden gem among the best bars in Tokyo.

The bar offers views of the Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan, and Asakusa’s town view.

Also, The bar’s expertly crafted cocktails and fine cuisine combine to create a special dinner experience.

With its combination of exquisite drinks, gourmet food, and breathtaking views, R Restaurant & Bar easily earns its place among the best bars in Tokyo.

Address	2-16-11 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Open	5pm – 10pm
Web site	https://www.gate-hotel.jp/en/asakusa-kaminarimon/rb/restaurant.html

The SG Club

The SG Club is a Shibuya cocktail bar that offers a perfect blend of Japanese and Western influences.

The SG Club has three floors offering different atmospheres. The ground floor, “Guzzle,” offers a casual vibe with inventive cocktails perfect for after-work drinks. The basement level, “Sip,” provides a more refined experience with classic cocktails and rare spirits. For cigar aficionados, the top floor “Smoke” offers a selection of fine cigars to pair with your drinks.

It has also been voted one of the best bars in the world, so if you want to end your night in Tokyo in the best place, this is the place to

Address	1-7-8 Jinnan, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open	Sun – Thu : 5pm – 2am Fri, Sat : 5pm – 3am
Website	https://sg-management.jp/

Apéro

Located in Aoyama, Apéro is a popular bar for natural wine lovers.

The bar features an impressive selection of natural wines from Japan and France, and the knowledgeable staff will guide you through the wine list. They also offer French-style small plates that go perfectly with the wines.

If you’re looking for quality, sustainable wines in a Tokyo bar, Apéro is the place to be.

Address	3F, Aoyama 346, 3-4-6 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Open	Tue – Sat : 6pm – 12pm
Website	https://apero.co.jp/ja

Virtu

Virtu, located on the 39th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, is a stunning addition to Tokyo’s best bars. This high-floor bar overlooks the Tokyo skyline, making for a special night out.

Enjoy unique cocktails that blend Japanese and international flavors, creating taste experiences found nowhere else in Tokyo.

With great drinks, amazing views, and impeccable service, Virtu has quickly established itself as one of the best bars in Tokyo.

Address	1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Open	Sun – Wed : 5pm – 12pm Thu – Sat : 5pm – 12:30pm
Website	https://www.fourseasons.com/otemachi/dining/restaurants/virtu/

Tokyo Whisky Library

For whiskey lovers, Tokyo Whisky Library is the best bar in Tokyo.

With over 1,000 varieties of whiskey from Japan and around the globe, it’s a paradise for whiskey lovers. Knowledgeable staff guide you through the extensive menu, so even beginners can find something that suits their taste.

Tokyo Whisky Library is a must-visit bar for anyone wanting to try Japanese whiskey in a warm, classic atmosphere.

Address	2F, Minami Aoyama Santa Chiara Church, 5-5-24 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Open	Lunch : 12am – 3pm Dinner : 5:30pm – 11pm
Website	https://tokyo-whisky-library.com/

Bar Benfiddich

Bar Benfiddich in Shinjuku offers a unique cocktail experience.

Head bartender Hiroyasu grows many of the herbs and botanicals used in his cocktails on his family farm. The cocktails are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, making them a real treat.

The bar’s interior is chic and sophisticated, providing an escape from the bustling atmosphere of Shinjuku.

If you’re looking for a unique cocktail experience in Tokyo, Bar Benfiddich is the place to be.

Address	9F, Yamato-ya Building, 1-13-7 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Open	Tue – Sat : 6pm – 1am Sun, Mon : Closed
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/benfiddich_tokyo/

Bar Trench

Bar Trench, located in the backstreets of Ebisu, has the feel of an adult hideaway.

The Bar’s vintage decor and dim lighting create a cozy atmosphere.

What sets Bar Trench apart is its focus on absinthe and herb-based liqueurs, Don’t miss their “Death in the Afternoon,” a classic absinthe cocktail.

If you want to relax and enjoy a drink in an adult hideaway, Bar Trench is the perfect place.

Address	102, Dis Ebisu Building, 1-5-8 Ebisu Nishicho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Open	6pm – 2am
Website	https://small-axe.net/bar-trench/

Bulgari Ginza Bar

Located in the heart of Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, Bulgari Ginza Bar is one of the best bars in Tokyo.

Rooted in Italian cocktail culture, the bar offers modern interpretations of classic Italian drinks, crafted with precision and elegance.

The bar’s interior is characterized by its sleek and modern decor, creating a luxurious atmosphere.

Recommended for those who want to spend a luxurious night in Tokyo in a bar with an Italian spice.

Address	10F, Daiichi Sankyo Ginza Building, 2-7-12 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Open	Mon – Thu, Sat : 12am – 11pm Fri : 12am – 12pm Sun : 12am – 6:30pm
Website	https://www.bulgarihotels.com/en_US/tokyo-osaka-restaurants/tokyo/bulgari-ginza-bar

Tokyo Bars What you need to know

When exploring the best bars in Tokyo, it’s essential to understand the unique aspects of the city’s drinking culture. Tokyo’s bar scene is diverse and exciting, offering everything from high-end cocktail lounges to cozy local pubs. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your experience in Tokyo’s best bars.

Japanese Type of Alchol

Tokyo’s bars offer a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, but to truly immerse yourself in the local drinking culture, you should familiarize yourself with Japanese types of alcohol. These unique spirits are often featured in cocktails at the best bars in Tokyo.

Sake

Sake, also known as nihonshu, is Japan’s national drink. This rice wine is served in many bars in Tokyo, either chilled, at room temperature, or warm. Many of the best bars in Tokyo offer a selection of premium sakes that pair well with Japanese cuisine.

Shochu

Shochu is another popular Japanese spirit you’ll encounter in Tokyo’s bars. Made from various ingredients like sweet potato, barley, or rice, shochu has a higher alcohol content than sake and is often enjoyed on the rocks or mixed in cocktails.

Japanese Whisky

Japanese whisky has gained worldwide recognition in recent years, and you’ll find an impressive selection at many of the best bars in Tokyo. From well-known brands like Suntory and Nikka to rare, small-batch distilleries, Tokyo’s whisky bars offer a chance to taste some of the finest spirits Japan has to offer.

Umeshu

Umeshu, a sweet plum liqueur, is another local favorite you’ll find in many Tokyo bars. It’s often served on the rocks or with soda water and makes for a refreshing drink, especially during summer.

Bars Area in Tokyo

Tokyo is a vast city with numerous neighborhoods, each offering its own unique bar scene. Understanding these areas can help you find the best bars in Tokyo that suit your preferences.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is home to some of the best bars in Tokyo, particularly in the Golden Gai area. This network of narrow alleys houses over 200 tiny bars, each with its own character. It’s an excellent place to experience Tokyo’s local drinking culture.

Shibuya

Shibuya, known for its youthful energy, offers a mix of trendy cocktail bars and casual izakayas. Some of the best bars in Tokyo for craft beer and innovative cocktails can be found in this vibrant district.

Ginza

Ginza is the place to go for high-end bars and luxurious drinking experiences. Many of Tokyo’s best cocktail bars, including several on international “best bars” lists, are located in this upscale neighborhood.

Roppongi

Roppongi is popular among expatriates and tourists, offering a diverse range of bars from sophisticated cocktail lounges to lively nightclubs. You’ll find some of the best bars in Tokyo for a night out in this area.

Asakusa

Asakusa, while more traditional, still offers some hidden gems among Tokyo’s best bars. This area is particularly good for experiencing Japanese sake in a historic setting.

FAQ About Best Bars in Tokyo

As you explore the vibrant nightlife and seek out the best bars in Tokyo, you may have some questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Tokyo’s bar scene to help you make the most of your experience.

Uncover a Best Bar in Tokyo

Tokyo’s bar scene is a vibrant tapestry of experiences, offering something for every taste and budget. From high-end cocktail lounges with breathtaking views to cozy local izakayas, the best bars in Tokyo showcase the city’s unique drinking culture.

Whether you’re sipping sake in a traditional setting, enjoying craft cocktails in a trendy Shibuya bar, or exploring the whisky selection at a sophisticated Ginza establishment, Tokyo’s bars promise unforgettable nights. Remember to respect local customs, be open to trying new drinks, and most importantly, enjoy the world-class hospitality that makes Tokyo’s bars truly special.