Top 10 Best Places to Drink in Tokyo

Legendary bartender Hidetsugu Ueno creates bespoke cocktails tailored to each guest's preferences. Widely considered one of the world's best bars, the experience is intimate and personalized with no menu - just trust the master.

A minimalist 8-seat bar where Chef-bartender Gen Yamamoto crafts seasonal cocktails using Japanese fruits and vegetables. Each drink tells a story of Japanese terroir through an omakase-style experience.

A shrine to classic cocktails where bartenders in white jackets craft drinks with precision and reverence. Run by legendary bartender Hisashi Kishi, the ice carving and martini technique alone are worth the visit.

Japan's premier whisky bar with over 300 Japanese whiskies, including rare bottles from closed distilleries like Karuizawa and Hanyu. A pilgrimage site for whisky enthusiasts from around the world.

Pioneering Ebisu speakeasy that helped launch Tokyo's modern cocktail renaissance. Known for innovative cocktails using house-made ingredients, absinthe specialties, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

A labyrinthine network of over 200 tiny bars crammed into six narrow alleys in Shinjuku. Each bar seats only a handful of guests with distinct themes from punk rock to jazz. An essential Tokyo nightlife experience frozen in time.

Also known as 'Memory Lane' or 'Piss Alley', this atmospheric post-war alley near Shinjuku Station is lined with tiny yakitori stalls and bars. Smoke, sizzling skewers, and shoulder-to-shoulder seating create an unforgettable old Tokyo atmosphere.

Popular craft beer destination in Roppongi featuring an extensive selection of Japanese craft beers alongside international favorites. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for exploring Japan's booming craft beer scene.

The stylish lobby lounge of boutique Trunk Hotel in Shibuya serves creative cocktails in a design-forward space. Popular with Tokyo's fashion crowd, it offers a modern take on Japanese hospitality with excellent drinks and people-watching.

Made famous by 'Lost in Translation', this 52nd-floor bar offers stunning city views, live jazz, and classic cocktails. The sophisticated atmosphere and panoramic Tokyo vistas make it an unforgettable experience.

Shingo Gokan's flagship spanning three floors: Guzzle for cocktails, Sip for refined drinks, and a hidden speakeasy. Each level offers a distinct drinking experience from one of Asia's most celebrated bartenders.

Hiroyasu Kayama forages herbs and makes his own spirits at this alchemist's den in Shinjuku. Expect experimental cocktails featuring absinthe, homemade bitters, and wild ingredients.

Shinjuku's newest addition to the craft cocktail scene, featuring seasonal menus and a focus on sustainable bar practices.

A new wave sake bar in Nihonbashi showcasing rare bottles from small-batch breweries. The sake flights offer an education in regional terroir.

The legendary 'entertainment izakaya' where eccentric owner Mark performs outrageous acts while serving drinks. Best experienced after a few warm sake.

A cozy standing bar near Shinbashi Station where salarymen gather for hot sake and oden. The convivial atmosphere warms you on cold nights.

Run by a British expat under the Yurakucho tracks, this beloved izakaya serves hot nihonshu with hearty winter dishes like grilled fish and nabemono.

A sophisticated rooftop terrace in Omotesando perfect for summer evenings. The craft cocktails and city views make it a warm-weather favorite.

An outdoor food and drink collective in Omotesando with rotating pop-up bars and beer gardens. The communal atmosphere is perfect for warm summer nights.

Historic Ginza bar dating to 1928, known for serving New Year's osake (celebratory sake) and attracting literary figures. Start the year with a classic Old Fashioned in an authentic setting.

Sample winter-release shiboritate (freshly pressed) sake from breweries across Japan. January brings the year's first new sake releases.