Hello Traveler to Japan
Tokyo’s maze of public transport is difficult to navigate. My advice is to look at the poison green line of Yamanote. It covers major tourist attractions and you do not need a wifi to check where you are going. If you use an App, I recommend the “Japan Travel App” but Google is fine as well.
The Yamanote line circle is going clockwise and anti-clockwise through Tokyo. It is easy to remember this line and to get around. I review every station on this line. Today’s Station review is Shibuya. There is to much to see and I introduced the most recommended places in Shibuya, than a day in Shibuya from my point of view and today I will introduce the nightlife, in particular the Shibuya Bar Scene.
[[Shibuya Nightlife 💃💃💃]] is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, offering a wide range of bars from traditional [[izakayas]] to modern cocktail lounges. Here are some popular bars in Shibuya you might consider visiting:
- [[Ishinohana]]: Owned by award-winning mixologist Shinobu Ishigaki, this bar is known for its sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. It offers unique cocktails, many of which are original creations. Note there's a minimum order requirement and a cover charge. https://ishinohana.com/en/ ✓
- **[[Tsubo no Naka]]**: A standing sake bar perfect for those looking to explore different sake varieties. It's praised for its value, offering over 70 types of sake from all over Japan for a fixed fee. http://tsubo-no-naka.com ✓
- **[[Rockaholic]]**: Ideal for fans of rock and metal music, this bar often features themed nights with guest DJs and up-and-coming artists, providing a lively atmosphere for music lovers. https://bar-rockaholic.jp/shibuya/ ✓
- ~~**[[Gen & Material CLOSED]]**: Specializes in shochu and umeshu, offering an extensive selection. This bar is great for those interested in exploring lesser-known Japanese spirits. I cannot find a website for this Bar.~~ ==closed==
- **[[Goodbeer Faucets]]**: A go-to spot for beer enthusiasts, with over 40 kinds of draft beer and some exclusive house brews. It's a casual place with a great view for people-watching, though it closes around midnight. https://shibuya.goodbeerfaucets.jp ✓
- **[[Bar TRENCH]]**: It's technical close to Ebisu Station but I have to mention it because it is in the Shibuya vicinity. Renowned for its innovative cocktails, this upscale bar is particularly famous for its Trench 75, a twist on the French 75 using Japanese sake instead of champagne. The website is not reachable but the last review is from October 2024. ✓
- **[[The Bellwood]]**: Located in Kamiyamacho, it's known for its unique cocktail menu inspired by kaiseki courses, providing a modern luxury feel with Showa-era aesthetics. I cold not find a website but the last review is from August 2024 https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1303/A130301/13247129/dtlphotolst/3/smp2/ ✓
- **[[Music Bar 45]]**: A laid-back spot for music lovers, where you can enjoy drinks with the ambiance of live or DJ music. I could not find a website but the last review is from July 2024. ✓
- **[[Record Bar Analog]]**: A bar where you can request records to be played, enhancing your drink with a personalized soundtrack. It has a small cover charge but provides a unique experience. https://analog-recordbar.com ✓
- **[[Cé La Vi]]**: Offers stunning city views from the 17th and 18th floors of Tokyu Plaza, with a club lounge, bar, and restaurant. It's known for its luxurious setting and panoramic views over Shibuya. I have been there, it was nice but the atmosphere was so lala. https://www.celavi.com/en/tokyo/restaurant/ ✓
- **[[Øl Tokyo by Oslo Brewing Co.]]**: A haven for craft beer lovers, featuring a permanent food truck outside and local DJs inside. https://www.oltokyo.jp ✓
- ~~**[[Coins Bar 300 closed]]**: If you're looking for budget-friendly drinks, this dive bar is the place. It's popular among locals and tourists for its reasonable prices and relaxed atmosphere. ==closed==
- [[Dagashi Bar]] Mix you alcohol with classic Japanese Candies from the 1980's https://shibuyadagashibar.gorp.jp ✓
- [[Shibuya Oiran Warm-up Bar]] Shibuya Oiran Warm-up Bar for a taste of Edo-era inspired ambiance or engaging with the local music culture http://www.oiran.asia
- [[Bar Caol Ila]]
Located in a quieter part of Shibuya, this bar is known for its collection of whiskeys, especially from the Caol Ila distillery in Scotland. It's a cozy spot for savoring high-quality spirits with expert service. I could not find a website.
- [[Tokyo Whisky Library]] (TOKYO Whisky Library):
Situated near Omotesandō Station, which is close to Shibuya, this bar boasts over 1,000 varieties of whiskey from around the world, including a strong selection of Japanese whiskies. It's a must-visit for any whiskey lover with its impressive setup reminiscent of a library. Website not working.
- [[Teppen Otokodojo Izakaya]]
Famous for its handsome all-male staff in traditional attire, this izakaya provides a unique dining experience along with good food and drinks. https://teppen-otoko.com
- [[Kaikaya by the Sea Izakaya]]
Specializes in seafood, offering dishes like seafood carpaccio and tempura. It's a welcoming spot for tourists with an English menu available. https://kaikaya.com/booking.html
- [[Ahiru Store Wine Bar]]
A cozy spot popular among wine enthusiasts, especially those into natural wines. It's tiny, so expect to stand or get there early for a seat. The selection focuses on French natural wines.
- [[Maison Cinquante Cinq Wine Bar]]
Known for its natural wine selection, this bar is located in the Hatagaya neighborhood, just a short distance from Shibuya. It's housed in a wooden interior that feels like stepping into a cave, offering a unique atmosphere. https://www.maisoncinquantecinq.jp
