A Night Out in Tokyo

There are many ways to spend a night out in Tokyo; eating your way through the city, discovering the metropolis’ eccentric sides, or getting to know its spookier areas are just a few examples. There is so much to do that it is hard to choose, so let us give you a little bit of inspiration for a fun night out in the world’s largest city!

Night view from Shibuya Sky

Since 2019, Shibuya has a new landmark tower called Shibuya Scamble Square. Boasting shops, restaurants, and office space, this building is not only a great work of modern Japanese architecture but also a multi-functional hub. All the way on the 45th floor is Shibuya Sky, which is easiest Tokyo’s best observation platform. The elevator ride up there is extremely speedy and exciting with a psychedelic animation on the ceiling while you ride.

You can come here during the day, but the night is extra magical with the sprawling city below you lit up with a million smaller and larger lights. There are plenty of Instabae spots that attract local youth, there is a bar from where you get incredible views to go with your drink, and every 30 minutes a light beam and music show happens after the sun sets. Lie down on the soft fake grass and enjoy!

Hole in the wall bar in Monzennakacho

After taking in the amazing views from Shibuya Sky, we headed to Monzennakacho (Monnaka for insiders) for a more local experience of what Tokyo’s nights have to offer. This traditional-feeling area is not far from Tokyo Station but has a completely different vibe. There are many members-only ‘snack bars’ here, but if you know where to look you can also find many small bars that welcome newcomers.

We went to Vanitas, a beautiful dark bar tucked away in one of Monnaka’s small side streets. The menu is mostly written in English making it easy to order, and the cocktails are delicious. If you like sweet cocktails, the Silk Stocking is delicious, but their specialty are the whiskeys. Those who want to indulge in some of Japan’s most famous whiskeys by breweries like Yamazaki and Hibiki, this is the perfect place to go. The bar is non-smoking (electronic cigarettes only), which is a big plus in our book.

Japanese comfort food after drinking

After downing a few delectable cocktails it is time for some typical Japanese after-drink foods: noodles and gyoza dumplings. Just around the corner of the bar you can find Tiger Gyoza, a rugged Japanese-style Chinese food specialist. Many people swear by the combination of gyoza with beer, so if you can still drink some more you should definitely have a cold one on the side. The gyoza here are perfect with just the right amount of juiciness and spices, and for those who like coriander we especially recommend the coriander-topped dumplings. That was a satisfying evening!

Night tours in Tokyo

We can imagine that it can be a bit intimidating to just dive into Tokyo’s nightlife if you are not familiar with the city and don’t speak Japanese. That is when booking one of our night tours is a great option. In Tokyo, we offer a dinner food tour where a fun guide takes you into the lively food scene of Tokyo’s long nights in either Shinjuku or Yurakucho.

Or do you prefer to do something more active? Then our twillight-time bicycle tour might be for you! Cycle through the best parts of the city from where you can see the best evening views without getting tired. Or if you are looking for a spooky but special experience, check out our ghost tour where an experienced guide leads you through some of Tokyo’s darkest areas…

A Night Out in Tokyo