Start planning your trip
2025/05/03 - 2025/05/10
With: 
12 Must-Visit Night Spots in Tokyo: Bars, Scenic Views, and Shops
This service includes sponsored advertisements.
Tokyo at night offers travelers endless charm, from authentic cuisine and vibrant nightlife to the unique cultural atmosphere. This article highlights 12 great places to explore in Tokyo after dark, featuring yokocho (alleyways), bars, drugstores, and free observation decks.
Night spots, including the illuminated streets of Tokyo after dark, exude a softer, more romantic atmosphere compared to the bustling city during the day.
This article highlights 12 must-visit spots in Tokyo at night, ranging from drugstores that are open late at night to uniquely styled bars and free observation decks offering stunning city views.
1. Shibuya Yokocho: The B-Class Gourmet Paradise
Shibuya Yokocho is a dining area that blends diverse cuisine with a unique atmosphere. There are 19 shops with a total of 1,250 indoor seats, as well as 350 outdoor balcony seats along the pedestrian walkway.
From seafood hailing from Hokkaido to specialty dishes from Okinawa or local snacks and classic affordable B-class gourmet food, this place has it all. You can savor flavors from various regions of Japan in one stop.
Additionally, the selection of alcoholic beverages, including sake and shochu, is extensive. This makes Shibuya Yokocho an ideal spot for night gatherings with friends. Whether you’re a foodie or want to experience Tokyo's nightlife, this culinary paradise is a must-visit!
Shibuya Yokocho
Chome−20−10 South 1F RAYARD MIYASHITA PARK, 6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, To...
Shibuya Yokocho is a lively dining area located near Shibuya Station that combines a retro Showa atmosphere with modern entertainment. There are a wide variety of izakaya and restaurants, where you can enjoy famous dishes from all over Japan, such as yakitori, kushikatsu, sushi, and ramen. This is a popular spot for gatherings of friends and tourists, where you can enjoy food and drinks in a peaceful atmosphere. Live performances and seasonal events are also held, providing visitors with a lively and heartwarming experience.
2. Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho: Walk Down Memory Lane
Photo by Pixta
Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho, located near the West Exit of JR Shinjuku Station, is a narrow alleyway with a nostalgic atmosphere.
The area has gradually attracted around 60 restaurants and bars, primarily featuring grilled offal and skewers, thanks to the rise of outdoor markets.
The alleyway is saturated with menus showcasing local flavors and where shopkeepers exhibit rare warmth and hospitality, making it suitable for travelers who can communicate in Japanese.
It’s important to note that there are specific regulations regarding photography and videography in this area. We recommend visitors check the official website beforehand to understand the local rules to ensure a smoother, more enjoyable visit.
Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023
Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho is a historic dining district located in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, and is a quaint area that retains a strong vestige of the post-war Showa era. The narrow alleys are lined with small izakayas and restaurants, serving popular and flavorful dishes such as yakitori, offal stew, and ramen. It is characterized by the sight of tourists and locals gathering together to eat and drink side by side in a lively atmosphere. This is a hidden spot in Shinjuku where you can feel the nostalgic scenery and warm humanity.
Hotels near Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
3. Shinjuku Golden Gai: Enjoy Drinks Shoulder to Shoulder with Others
Photo by Pixta
Shinjuku Golden Gai, located in Kabukicho, is an area with small retro bars lining a stretch of about 200 meters.
There are about 200 bars here, each with being extremely compact size and usually accommodating just a few patrons. But this, in turn, creates an intimate atmosphere.
The interior decor of the bars varies, with some maintaining a traditional style and others showcasing more creative designs.
Golden Gai offers a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, sake, and whiskey, ensuring there's something for everyone. It has become a social hub for locals and overseas visitors alike. It is a spot that is always buzzing with activity.
For those who love exploring Tokyo's nightlife, Shinjuku Golden Gai is undoubtedly a must-visit destination to experience the local culture.
Read also
Shinjuku Golden Gai
1-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0021
4. Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center: Enjoy Splendid Night Views
Photo by Pixta
Located directly across from Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is a multifunctional facility. It was designed by the internationally renowned architect Kengo Kuma.
Not only does it provide tourists with information during the day, but it also features a free observation deck on the top floor where visitors can enjoy views of the Tokyo Skytree and Sensoji Temple.
Open from morning until 10 PM, this spot allows you to admire the changing scenery of Tokyo throughout the day. As someone who has lived in Asakusa for over six years, I highly recommend it as a great photography location.
Asakusa Culture Tourism Center
Chome-18-9, 2 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0034
The Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo, and welcomes tourists as a base for providing tourist information and cultural experiences. The building was designed by Kengo Kuma and features a modern Japanese design, blending local culture with modern sensibilities. There is a tourist information center within the building, and multilingual staff will provide guidance and information. Furthermore, there is an observation terrace that overlooks the cityscape of Asakusa, so you can enjoy sightseeing while overlooking Kaminarimon and the Sumida River. Exhibitions and events are also held here to meet the diverse needs of tourists.
Hotels near Asakusa Culture Tourism Center
5. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory: A Million-Dollar Night View for Free
Photo by Pixta
Located on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, this indoor observation deck offers a free and breathtaking panoramic view! Not only does it provide a bird's-eye perspective from a high elevation, but it also allows you to enjoy spectacular views in all directions.
Particularly at night, the scenery from the observation deck is mesmerizing, with the entire city of Tokyo illuminated. This night spot exudes a unique charm that resembles a shimmering sea of lights. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance.
Upon arriving at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, you can queue at the entrance to the South Observatory on the first floor. After a security check, you can take a dedicated elevator to access the observation deck for free.
During busy times, you may need to wait a little. It’s a good idea to check the official website for current wait times in advance.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatories
2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Hotels near Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatories
6. Tokyu Kabukicho Tower 17th Floor Observation Deck: Night Views from the Entertainment Capital
Photo by PR Times
Opened in April 2023, the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower has quickly become the new Shinjuku landmark. It was designed by Yuko Nagayama, who previously worked on the Louis Vuitton store in Kyoto, incorporating cultural elements from Kabukicho into the architecture.
The building includes facilities such as hotels, cinemas, and theaters. However, the observation deck located on the west side of the 17th floor is a must-visit spot for enjoying the night view of Tokyo.
On the same floor, there’s also a bar called JAM17, which operates until midnight. Guests can enjoy drinks while savoring the nighttime scenery of Tokyo.
Compared to other free-access observation decks, this location tends to have fewer crowds, making it ideal for photos capturing the stunning vistas.
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho 1-29-1
Hotels near Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
7. GRACERY LOUNGE: Sip Cocktails While Gazing at Godzilla
Photo by PR Times
Located just a five-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station, the GRACERY LOUNGE on the 8th floor of the Gracery Shinjuku Hotel offers a serene atmosphere. With its calm tones, the lounge is an ideal place for travelers to relax amidst the bustling city.
At GRACERY LOUNGE, you'll find a variety of desserts, parfaits, coffees, and teas, along with unique Japanese gin cocktails. A special highlight is the collaboration menu featuring dishes inspired by the iconic Japanese monster, Godzilla.
The lounge is also adorned with a large Godzilla decoration, allowing fans of the legendary monster to immerse themselves in a distinctive visual experience.
Gracery Lounge
Chome-19-1, 1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0021
A new space where time flows elegantly The lounge adjacent to the lobby on the 8th floor is a space where you can spend a relaxing time with a calm interior design.
In addition, there will be other menu items such as the Godzilla Print Art Latte (1,573 yen) and ``Godzilla vs. Mothra Pancake Island Battle'' (3,146 yen) that are inspired by the object ``Godzilla Head'' on the hotel's 8th floor terrace. An alcoholic menu will be provided during bar time.
Hotels near Gracery Lounge
8. The Lounge at The Westin Tokyo: A Luxurious Escape for Adults
Photo by PR Times
The Westin Tokyo, located in the bustling Ebisu area, features a grand lobby space designed around an indoor garden theme, soaring about 10 meters high with marble columns.
The open and inviting atmosphere of The Lounge provides guests seeking personal time with an exquisite space to unwind.
Lounge-goers can order a variety of signature cocktails, including the classic Westin Martini and delightful beverages made with seasonal fruits, which are particularly popular.
If you want to experience a refined and elegant Tokyo night, consider visiting The Lounge to sip a rich selection of beverages in a relaxing ambiance.
9. ROOF TOP RESTAURANT & MUSIC BAR SOAK: Enjoy Original Cocktails High Above
Photo by PR Times
Located on the top floor of the Sequence Miyashita Park Hotel in Shibuya, ROOF TOP RESTAURANT & MUSIC BAR SOAK offers a menu inspired by Italian cuisine, along with original cocktails crafted by experienced mixologists.
The drink menu features a wide selection, including cocktails, whiskey, and over 30 different gins and Japanese sakes.
Visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of Shibuya's vibrant night scene from the 18th floor while indulging in a delightful feast of diverse culinary creations and beverages.
ROOF TOP RESTAURANT & MUSIC BAR SOAK
6 Chome−20−10, MIYASHITA PARK North, 18F, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo...
ROOFTOP BAR SOAK is a rooftop bar located in central Tokyo where you can enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere and spectacular views. The open space offers a panoramic view of Tokyo's night view and skyline, creating a special time.
The drink menu includes a diverse lineup of carefully selected cocktails, wines, and champagnes, and the food menu is also high quality, with a wide range of options from light snacks to full-fledged dishes. Perfect for talking with friends or going on a date, it provides an elegant moment to forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Read also
10. THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY: Scenic Views, Music, and Fine Drinks
Photo by PR Times
Located at the top of the famous tourist landmark SHIBUYA SKY, the SKY STAGE rooftop bar offers a selection of refreshing fruit beers and elegant non-alcoholic sparkling wines.
Additionally, they have collaborated with the renowned urban brewery Y.Y.G. Brewery from Shibuya and Yoyogi to introduce a limited-edition craft beer.
This circular rooftop bar provides a 360-degree view of Tokyo’s vibrant cityscape, allowing guests to see iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower glistening in the night.
The experience is enhanced by a curated music compilation selected specifically to complement the stunning night views of Tokyo, combining breathtaking scenery, music, and fine drinks into an unforgettable travel memory.
THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY
45th floor, Shibuya Scramble Square, Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-61...
THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY is a rooftop observation area located in Shibuya Scramble Square, and is a spot where you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Tokyo. From a height of approximately 230 meters above ground, you can enjoy a panoramic view of famous spots such as Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Tower, and the Sky Tree.
At night, the beautiful night view spreads out, creating a romantic time. There is also a cafe and lounge space where you can enjoy specialty drinks and light snacks in a sophisticated atmosphere. We provide the perfect experience for sightseeing, dates, and special moments.
11. Don Quijote: Your Go-To for Late-Night Stocking Up
When you realize late at night that you’ve run out of cosmetics, snacks, or instant noodles, don’t worry! The 24-hour Don Quijote is your lifesaver.
This large-scale discount shop not only has a wide variety of items but also offers the unique pleasure of late-night shopping when there are fewer crowds.
If you're looking for the most extensive selection of products, be sure to visit the MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store. True to its name, this MEGA location occupies a larger area and boasts an inventory of over 60,000 to 100,000 items, ensuring that every shopper's expectations are met.
MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store
28-6 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0042
Hotels near MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store
12. 24-Hour Drugstores: Shop for Medicine or Beauty Products at Night
Photo by Pixta
If you still need to pick up some drugstore items to take home or require over-the-counter medicine at the last minute, the 24-hour Matsumoto Kiyoshi or Tsuruha drugstores in the city center are excellent options.
These drugstores offer a wide variety of products and professional services, allowing you to effortlessly complete your shopping list. You can shop to your heart's content and then head to bed feeling satisfied!
For information on the 24-hour branches of Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Tsuruha Drugstore, click here. (Japanese)
Enjoy Tokyo at Night
From shopping to breathtaking night views and relaxing at elegant bars, Tokyo after dark is even more fascinating and engaging than you might think.
Next time, remember not to rush back to your hotel after dinner. There are still plenty of exciting things to explore from dusk till late at night.
Just keep in mind that taxis in Japan can be quite expensive, so make sure to check the last train schedules to return to your hotel safely!
Read also
Main image courtesy of PR Times
Written by
Special Features
More
