Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, offering an electrifying nightlife scene that’s perfect for exploration.
This guide will reveal why a pub crawl in Tokyo should be at the top of your travel itinerary.
The Unique Appeal of Tokyo’s Pub Crawls
Variety of Bars:
Tokyo’s bar scene is a thrilling adventure, packed with everything from cozy hidden izakayas to chic, high-end cocktail lounges, offering something for every type of drinker. Izakayas buzz with energy, perfect for those seeking a lively night out with friends or a chance to meet new faces. In Shinjuku’s legendary Golden-Gai, you’ll find around 200 bars, each with its own unique vibe – from gritty dive bars to sleek, trendy spots, many so intimate they can barely fit more than 4-6 people! Meanwhile, Ginza’s stylish cocktail bars are not only a feast for the eyes, but each drink is a meticulously crafted masterpiece. Whether you’re here for the buzz or the elegance, Tokyo’s bar scene promises an unforgettable experience!
Cultural Experience:
Pub crawls offer a fun and exciting way to dive into Japanese culture, mixing classic traditions with the vibrant energy of modern nightlife. As you hop from one lively spot to the next, you’ll have the chance to chat with the locals, picking up cool stories about the area’s history, the local way of life, tasty traditional foods, and, of course, their unique drinking customs. It’s the perfect way to experience Japan from a whole new, and truly fun, perspective!
Social Atmosphere:
Whether you’re flying solo or hanging with friends, pub crawls are an epic way to dive into Tokyo’s buzzing social scene and meet new people! You’ll get the inside scoop on drinking customs, pick up some cool Japanese phrases, and connect with locals in a way that’s fun and unforgettable. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and new friendships – all in one night!
Top Pub Crawl Spots in Tokyo
Shibuya: The Heart of Nightlife
Shibuya Crossing: Start the night at this iconic spot.
Kick off your pub crawl at the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where Tokyo’s pulse is at its absolute peak! This electrifying neighborhood is home to an endless variety of bars, each offering a one-of-a-kind experience. You can sip drinks while battling it out in video games, throwing darts, puffing on shisha, or grooving to live music and killer DJ sets. Whether you’re at a dive bar where you can leave your mark by scribbling on the walls or enjoying a sophisticated drink at an upscale spot serving top-notch whisky and cocktails, Shibuya has it all. Don’t miss standout spots like AsobiBar, Tasuichi, and DJ Bar Oath – just a taste of the thrilling night ahead!
Hidden Meat Alley (Niku Yokocho): Explore izakayas and enjoy local delicacies.
Get ready to dive into Shibuya’s Hidden Meat Alley for a truly authentic taste of local cuisine and drinks! Stepping into this place feels like traveling back to the Showa Era, with its nostalgic paper lanterns, retro ads, and beer crate chairs. The atmosphere is laid-back and buzzing with friendly chit-chat, where you can dig into a mouthwatering variety of meats while sipping cold drinks. Even if you’re feasting on crispy fried chicken at one place, you can order a juicy hamburger steak from the spot next door, and it’ll be delivered straight to your table! Plus, some restaurants offer an unbeatable all-you-can-eat-and-drink deal, making this a must-try experience that is as fun as it is delicious.
Shinjuku: The Entertainment Hub
Kabukicho District: Visit Tokyo’s well-known izakayas and karaoke bars.
Check out the electric nightlife of Kabukicho, Tokyo’s legendary red-light district where the party never stops! The streets are lit up with neon signs, guiding you to karaoke joints, buzzing bars, thumping clubs, and a smorgasbord of restaurants, including a wild samurai-themed spot with live music and dancing. The energy here is contagious, with surprises around every corner—so keep your eyes peeled for the giant Godzilla towering over the buildings behind the movie theater, watching over the madness below! Kabukicho is pure excitement, packed with unforgettable moments and non-stop fun!
Golden Gai: Experience tiny, themed bars in a unique setting.
Golden Gai is a series of several narrow alleyways, packed with roughly 200 small, themed bars! So, as you can imagine it’s easy to get lost searching for the best spot to grab a drink. But don’t fear, your Best Experience Japan guide will make sure you visit the most well-known bars. Depending on the bar, the seating can be very limited, with some bars offering only 3-6 seats. Due to the popularity of either drink specials, or the ambience of these bars, people will still opt to cram into the small space creating an intimate standing only experience. Bars favorited by locals include Champions Bar for karaoke, The Open Book for a delicious lemon sour and numerous books to browse, and the interestingly named Deathmatch in Hell which plays metal music while showing horror movies – definitely an uncommon place! They are all worth a visit.
Roppongi: The International Scene
Diverse Bar Options: Enjoy a mix of upscale bars and casual pubs.
Roppongi is renowned for its international vibe and a wide range of bars that cater to both locals and foreigners. Roppongi’s variety of bars are not far from Roppongi Station. There is something for everyone in this city, ranging from laid-back pubs, to upscale night clubs. Just make sure you know the difference between regular bars, and hostess bars, the latter of which could leave your pockets empty! Many of Roppongi’s bars are filled with neon lights, an abundance of drinks, and good music where you can dance to your heart’s content. Alternatively, you can also find jazz bars where you can relax with a glass of wine or martini while chatting with both locals and travelers. Check out Hobgoblin Roppongi British Pub for a wide selection of beers, Odeon Tokyo for all-you-can-drink and dancing, and Alfie Jazz House for live jazz and a relaxing night with top shelf cocktails.
Roppongi Hills: A great spot for starting or ending the night.
Roppongi Hills seamlessly blends modern elegance with vibrant nightlife, making it the perfect starting or ending point for your pub crawl. The area is home to an array of upscale, laid-back bars where you can enjoy top-shelf drinks and delicious meals in a relaxed setting. While Roppongi Hills can be on the pricier side, the experience is well worth it. The bars here are renowned for their inviting ambiance, stunning views, and expertly crafted cocktails. For an unforgettable experience, visit R1 Tokyo Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, which boasts an impressive selection of wines and liquors, and a second floor serving comfort food with a unique blend of Caribbean, Italian, and Japanese influences. Alternatively, Obica Roppongi Hills offers a delectable Italian menu, perfectly paired with a variety of wines and cocktails, for a refined yet relaxed dining experience.
Ginza: Sophisticated Sips
Bar High Five: Renowned for craft cocktails and personalized drinks.
At Bar High Five, enjoy bespoke cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, making it a highlight of any pub crawl. No menu is offered at the bar; however, you can find a small list of house specials and bartender specials on their website. Bar High Five is a place where you can leave it up to the bartenders to listen to your preferred tastes and mix up a drink that will tantalize your tastebuds.
Mori Bar: Classic cocktails in a refined setting.
Mori Bar is renowned for its exceptional martinis and classic cocktails, creating a refined and sophisticated drinking experience. The bar’s elegant ambiance complements its expertly crafted martinis, offering patrons a taste of timeless mixology in a stylish setting. Whether enjoying a signature martini or indulging in other well-known cocktails, guests can savor the perfect blend of quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. Mori Bar stands as a destination where classic drinks are served with an attention to detail that elevates every visit into a memorable occasion.
Tips for an Unforgettable Pub Crawl
Joining a Tour:
There are many benefits of joining a guided pub crawl. For one, it can enhance your experience with local insights. You can meet locals who will teach you cultural and drinking traditions, and tasty Japanese foods. Most importantly, while hopping from place to place you can enjoy hassle-free navigation thanks to your knowledgeable Best Experience Japan Guide.
Local Etiquette:
Understanding Important cultural tips can enhance your drinking experience. Local drinking customs, such as pouring drinks for others before yourself and saying “kampai!” (cheers), will enrich your pub crawl experience. You may even learn a drinking song or play a fun drinking game as well!
Safety Tips:
Staying safe while enjoying the nightlife.
Joining a pub crawl tour will ensure a safe night out as sticking with your group is important, but you should also pace yourself and know your limits, and remember to respect local laws and customs.
Conclusion
From the electric energy of Shibuya’s neon-lit streets to the chic elegance of Ginza’s hidden speakeasies, Tokyo’s pub crawls offer a thrilling mix of fun, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re clinking glasses with new friends over ice-cold beers or sipping martinis while enjoying live jazz, Tokyo’s nightlife scene has something for everyone.
So, why not make it a night to remember? Book your pub crawl tour with Best Experience Japan, and let our expert guides lead you through the city’s buzzing bar scene for a one-of-a-kind adventure. With every stop, you’ll not only uncover Tokyo’s vibrant spirit but also create lasting memories.
Don’t forget to explore our other food and drink tours in Tokyo—we’ve got plenty of exciting experiences waiting for you!