best places to visit tokyo at night

19 BEST Things To Do In Tokyo At Night [2024 Edition]

Not sure what to do in Tokyo at night?

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is a thriving metropolitan city that never sleeps . With an incredible range of things to do, there is never a dull moment at night in Tokyo . 

Here on our Tokyo blog post, we will talk about the 19 best things to do in Tokyo at night and why you should add them to your  Tokyo itinerary ! Enjoy!

Planning A Trip To Tokyo Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended airport transfer to Tokyo:

• Haneda Airport: 1-Way Shared Shuttle Transfer
• Narita Airport: 1-Way Shared Shuttle Transfer

Our recommended tours in Tokyo:

• Tokyo: Full-Day Private Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide (Must-do!)
• Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic Day Tour (Best day trip from Tokyo!)
• Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Culture Walking Tour (For foodies!)

Our recommended places to stay in Tokyo:

• Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier (Luxurious and affordable!)
• The Gate Hotel Ryogoku by Hulic (AMAZING value-for-money)
• &And Hostel Asakusa Kappabashi (Perfect for backpackers)

What To Do In Tokyo At Night: 19 Best Things To Do In Tokyo At Night

1. visit sensoji at night, tokyo’s oldest temple.

If I have to summarize the Kawaii Monster Cafe with 3 words, they would be: crazy, weird, and crazy . Oops, did I say crazy twice? It’s almost like I’ve gone crazy, as if I have just visited the Kawaii Monster Cafe!

Kawaii Monster Cafe is very similar to the famous Robot Restaurant, in the way that they both contain a ridiculous show full of sensory overload and absurdity . Many visitors compare the Kawaii Monster Cafe to the movie “ Alice in the Wonderland” , but with some added psychedelics and 2-day sleep deprivation.

Though a maniacal experience, the artwork and decoration are very creative and unique. In any other part of the world, you wouldn’t see anything similar. Along with the decor, food and drinks are served here, though they are not anything worthy of mentioning.

Shows happened regularly throughout the day. As long as you are in the Kawaii Monster Cafe when the show happens, you can watch it. You don’t have to pay extra money to watch the show, though the cafe has a cover charge of 500 Yen.

There are events on certain nights, such as the burlesque performance on Thursday. If you are traveling Tokyo with kids, that might not be appropriate. Plan accordingly by referring to their website first!

(Note: Kawaii Monster Cafe is now permanently closed. )

10. Go On A Tokyo Bay Dinner Cruise!

If you are looking for a night activity that is relaxing and romantic, then going on a Tokyo Bay Dinner Cruise is perfect for you.

On the 2.5-hour cruise, guests will get the chance to admire the stunning skyline of Tokyo lit up at night. We saw some of the most notable landmarks in Tokyo, such as the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.

The views are spectacular, but what makes the experience so extraordinary is the food and the ambiance. When you sign up for the dinner cruise, you can pick what type of cuisine you would like. We were not expecting the quality of the food to be so high but the dishes were just fantastic.

If you are sure what to do at night in Tokyo, a Tokyo Bay dinner cruise is always a good option, no matter if you are alone, a couple, or a family!

Enjoy Tokyo’s Nightlife!

1.  go bar hopping at golden gai.

Suggested By: Sydney from  A World in Reach Golden Gai is one of Tokyo’s most famous nightlife spots and should be on any visitor’s Tokyo bucket list. Located in a corner of Kabukicho, the red light district of Shinjuku, it is a network of alleys full of tiny bars, clubs, and restaurants .

In the 1960s,  Golden Gai was known as a prostitution hot spot ; since then, the area has transformed into a nightlife hotspot for locals and tourists alike. To get there, take the subway to Shinjuku Station and leave from the east exit. From there, it is just about a 10-minute walk away.

Golden Gai is made up of six alleys , each lined with several bars. Most of the bars are extremely small, some only seating a handful of people. There is simply no better place to go bar hopping in Tokyo than Golden Gai.

Many of the bars are themed – some of them have a unique theme, like a hospital, while others have more typical themes such as jazz or R&B.

Unfortunately, many of the bars only admit locals . It’s pretty easy to tell which bars are for locals only; a bar with a closed door is a good sign that foreigners won’t be allowed in. Many of the bars have cover charges and almost all are cash-only, so bring along plenty of yen for the night.

With its dimly lit lights and unique architecture, Golden Gai is one of the best places for photography in Japan. However, many of the bars do not permit photography – inside or out.

If someone asks you to stop taking photos or there are signs stating that photography is not permitted, make sure to follow the rules.

If you are traveling alone in Tokyo and want to explore the nightlife, check out this bar-hopping tour !

2. Find A Unique Nightlife Experience At Tokyo’s Gay Bars

Bordering Golden Gai and to the Northeast of the Shinjuku Station is a neighborhood known as Kabukicho, most famously known as the red light district of Tokyo . This neon-filled district is filled with the city’s best hostess clubs, love hotels, nightclubs, and massage parlors .

Unlike lots of the red light districts in other parts of the world, Kabukicho is completely safe to walk around . In fact, it is one of the most touristy areas in Tokyo with many tour buses stopping by daily.

This red light district mostly targets local clientele , and it is rare that a foreigner will come to interaction with any of the “employees” there. Most of the businesses come from hostess bars, a huge part of Japanese entertainment culture .

If you are interested in a seedier side of Tokyo, then Kabukicho is where you will find it. However, you need to be aware of how likely it is that you will be overcharged , sometimes against your will.

See Tokyo Night View!

1. free tokyo skyline view at tokyo metropolitan government building.

By: Clemens of Travellers Archive If anyone counted all the lights that light up Tokyo at night, this person would still be counting. Japan’s capital is truly magical at night and the best way to get a glimpse of this magic is by visiting the Tokyo Tower at night.

The Tokyo Tower is 332.6 meters high and has one viewing platform at 150 meters and a second one at 250 meters . When standing right in front of the tower, you might recognize similarities to another, quite famous tower.

Yes, you’re right. The Tokyo Tower was built in 1958 and is basically the Japanese copy of the Eiffel Tower in Paris . The main difference? Definitely the bright color of the Tokyo Tower, which is a fundamental part of the city’s skyline.

Also, the Tokyo Tower is the symbol of Tokyo’s reincarnation after the Second World War.

The Tokyo Tower is located at Shiba Park in Tokyo’s district Minato. Simply take the Toei Mita line to Onarimon and follow the ten-minute walk.

🤯 Fun fact:  The Tokyo Tower was the city’s largest tower until the year 2012 when the 634-meter tall Tokyo Skytree opened.

3. Shibuya Sky Observatory

UNPLAN Shinjuku is located in the Shinjuku neighborhood, one of the best places to stay in Tokyo for nightlife. Many incredible places such as the Golden Gai and the Kabukicho neighborhood are located within walking distance. The hostel features capsule-style beds, cozy common areas, and a smartphone for every guest to help navigate the city! 

Best Luxury Hotel in Tokyo-  Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu

King of the luxury hotels in Tokyo, the Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel is the place you want to be if you want an unforgettable experience. Elegantly designed with trendy vibes, this high-end hotel is your home away from home. Come here and experience all the rave about Japanese hospitality!

Tokyo At Night FAQs

Does tokyo have a good nightlife.

Tokyo has one of the most legendary nightlife in Japan. From laid-back bars in Shibuya to high-end clubs in Roppongi, there is something for all types of nightlife lovers. Matter of fact, one of the best things to do in Tokyo is to enjoy its nightlife!

Is Tokyo Safe At Night?

Without a doubt, Tokyo is very safe at night, even for solo travelers who are walking around in the streets. However, travelers should still beware of pickpockets in nightclubs and bars, as that can sometimes happen if you don’t keep an eye on your belongings or get too drunk.

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This is the end of our guide for things to do at night in Tokyo! We hope this has at least given you a rough idea of the available night activities in Tokyo!  Any questions? Leave a comment!!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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16 Best Things To Do in Tokyo At Night

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Tokyo has so much to offer, both during the day and in the evening. So, if you’re getting ready to spend the evening in Japan’s capital city, we’ve got the best things to do in Tokyo at night for you.

Neon lights, skyscrapers, and plenty of events throughout the seasons. As the ever-changing capital of Japan, Tokyo has a unique futuristic charm you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

At night, the city turns into an ocean of infinite lights and vibrant colours with lots of areas to explore. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or a first-timer in Japan, be prepared to discover something new around every corner. Here are the best things to do in Tokyo at night.

Things to do in Tokyo at night

You can indulge yourself in various activities to enjoy Tokyo nightlife to its fullest. Find out about the best things to do and the places to see in our list below.

1. Get lost in the lights of Shibuya

Shibuya is known to be one of the top attractions for anyone travelling to Tokyo. Even if you’re only in town for a couple of days, you’ll want to make sure you visit this area.

At the heart of this popular shopping district lies Shibuya Crossing – frequently referred to as the busiest intersection in the world. Every time the traffic lights turn green, more than 2,500 people cross the street.

While you can have a joyful experience in Shibuya at any time of the day, the area comes to life at night. The best spot to view the intersection from above is the second floor of Starbucks located right next to exit A6b of Shibuya Station. Grab yourself a matcha latte and enjoy the view for a while – but don’t leave yet! Shibuya has even more to offer.

2. Visit Shibuya Sky and Miyashita Park

Over the past few years, Shibuya has seen many changes. One of them is Shibuya Sky , which opened its gates to visitors in 2019. This observatory deck allows you to chase the perfect sunset and watch the shining lights of Tokyo at night with a 360° panoramic view. You can find more information regarding the opening hours and ticket prices on their official website or buy tickets directly through Klook .

Need a little break after a busy day full of walking? In 2020, Miyashita Park reopened its doors as a modern multi-purpose facility with new shops, restaurants, and dimly lit cafés. The rooftop park on the uppermost floor features a beach volleyball court, a skate park, and areas to relax and enjoy your time on mild evenings.

If you’re staying in Tokyo for a few nights, you want to make sure you pick the right hotel. Check out our guide on where to stay in Tokyo for our recommendations.

3. Watch the bustling city at your feet from Tokyo Skytree 

While Shibuya Sky is unmatched in popularity, Tokyo has more dazzling night view spots. Spice up your Tokyo itinerary with the following places to catch a glimpse of the city from high above.

As the second-tallest building in the world, Tokyo Skytree will treat you with an unprecedented view at night. Opened in 2012, the 634-meter-high tower is now one of the most impressive landmarks of the city with two observation decks on different levels.

Purchasing your tickets in advance will save you some money. Visitors can choose between two types of tickets, one giving access to only the lower platform at 350 m, or one combined ticket for both platforms. Special night view options include a drink at the Skytree Café 350.

4. Feel the nostalgia on Tokyo Tower  

If you’re rather seeking nostalgia, one of the most iconic buildings of Japan’s capital to visit must be Tokyo Tower . If you’re into popular culture, you might remember this landmark from famous animes such as Sailor Moon. Resembling the shape of the Eiffel Tower, its history dates back to 1958.

When the darkness takes over Tokyo, the 333 m high building lightens up the night in warm shades of orange. Every Monday, the exterior facade changes to special colours that vary depending on the time of the year.

5. Explore Asakusa at night

Asakusa is famously known as Tokyo’s traditional district and home to the city’s oldest temple Sensō-ji built in 645 AD. Kannon, the goddess of mercy, is being worshipped here – and you can visit it 24 hours a day. While Asakusa might be a nice area to explore during the daytime for all the food stalls on Nakamise Street, it is definitely worth a visit at night for the illuminated temple.

When the streets have quietened down, you’ll be able to fully appreciate all the details of the architecture and walk through the lit-up entrance gate of Kaminarimon without the crowds. Plus, you can easily combine this activity with a quick detour to the Sumida River.

Asakusa is also the place where Magical Trip hosts one of their incredible Tokyo food tours at night – you can go bar-hopping with a local guide.

6. Walk along the Sumida River

Sumida River is only a short walk away from Asakusa Station. Enjoy the exquisite view of Tokyo Skytree at night from here. If you’re up for a more traditional experience, you can also book a dinner cruise tour on a yakatabune boat. But there is more to experience depending on the season.

In late March, the banks of Sumida River are fringed by blooming cherry trees. During this time, Sumida Park holds an annual Sakura Festival – including a yozakura (night-time cherry blossom) event with glowing paper lanterns highlighting the white-pinkish colour of the petals.

Summer is the time for fireworks in Japan, with Tokyo being no exception. “Fireworks” in Japanese ( hanabi ) literally translates to “flower fire” – a lovely word that captures the image of all the colourful patterns painted across the night sky.

Every year in July, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival attracts more than one million visitors. Since this event is really popular, it is better to arrive at the venue way ahead of time for a good view.

If you’re planning to visit other cities in Japan, check out our guides to the best things to do at night in Kyoto and Osaka too!

7. Experience Tokyo at night in line with the seasons

As spring is one of the best seasons to visit Japan, the yozakura events enjoy great popularity every year. On average, the cherry blossoms in Tokyo start blooming in mid-March and last for around two weeks. 

One of the most renowned places to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo is Ueno Park , where the cherry trees will be lit up at night during peak season.

The cherry blossom promenade along Meguro River is also worth visiting at night. Every spring, pink paper lanterns are lighting up the small river meandering through the neighbourhood of Nakameguro in beautiful colours. 

Even when the cherry blossom season is nearing its end, you won’t regret passing by this dreamy place, as the petals will be floating down the river like a pink carpet. 

Tokyo’s countless winter illuminations are perfect for a romantic stroll through the city during the cold season.

In Roppongi, the Midtown Christmas Illumination and the Roppongi Hills Winter Illumination both start in mid-November and last throughout December. For the Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination in December, thousands of sparkling blue lights illuminate an alley of trees leading up to Yoyogi Park.

Depending on the time of the year you travel to Japan, consider searching for more information on seasonal events. As for things to do at night, you should look out for the aforementioned night cherry blossom events in spring and special illuminations in winter, whereas fireworks and autumn foliage light-ups should be on your agenda for summer and fall.

8. Enjoy the night view of Tokyo Bay in Odaiba 

Odaiba is an artificial island in the Tokyo Bay area. The easiest way to access this popular entertainment district is by Yurikamome Line which will lead you through a jungle of skyscrapers and across the famous Rainbow Bridge on your way.

For the best night view of the Rainbow Bridge, exit the train at Daiba Station and head to the observation deck right next to Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty. At night, the bridge is lit up in different cool and warm shades of white light.

The iconic rainbow-coloured illumination can only be seen throughout December, accompanied by a short firework sequence at 7 p.m. every Saturday. Don’t miss out on this beautiful photo spot on your next trip to Tokyo.

9. Go bar hopping in Golden Gai 

How about going out at night for some bar hopping? With over 200 small bars and localities scattered over several cramped alleyways in Shinjuku, Golden Gai is a popular nightlife spot and the right place in Tokyo to spend a convivial time with friends.

The history of this district goes back to the Shōwa Era (1926–1989), precisely to the late 1940s and 1950s. Before turning into a bar and pub area over the years, it was mostly known for its black market.

If you’re unsure about where to start your exploration, you can find many options for guided bar or food tours centred around Golden Gai online .

10. Try all the Korean food in Shin-Okubo

Sushi, ramen, and tonkatsu – experiencing the local food culture is an essential part of travelling. But that doesn’t mean you have to limit your culinary experience to Japanese food. In fact, Tokyo has a lot more to offer.

Amidst the worldwide boom of Korean popular culture, Shin-Okubo (also known as Tokyo’s Korea Town) has risen to popularity among locals as well as international visitors over the last two decades. The area is conveniently accessible by Yamanote Line, only one stop away from Shinjuku Station.

Shin-Okubo experienced its first boom in the early 2000s when the TV series Winter Sonata turned out to be a huge success in Japan. Nowadays, new trends revolve around all aspects of Korean popular culture including music, drama, fashion, beauty, and food.

If you want to restock on Korean skin care products, discover the newest street food trends, or simply like to experience a lesser-known side of Tokyo, this is your place to go.

Since many shops and eateries in the area are open until 10 PM or later, a visit to Shin-Okubo makes for a great activity to do at night. Don’t forget to explore the side streets, as you might find some nice hidden restaurants there.

11. Have a drink in Takadanobaba

Located close to educational institutions like Waseda University, Takadanobaba is particularly popular among students.

If you happen to be around Shinjuku at night, it is worth checking out the vicinity of this district. Besides shopping malls, you’ll find some cheap restaurants, bars, and izakaya that serve all kinds of dishes from grilled skewers to fried foods.

12. Sing the night away in a karaoke room 

One thing is for sure: As an essential aspect of Japanese culture and one of the most beloved activities to do in Tokyo at night, you can’t leave Japan without trying out karaoke at least once.

Bigger chains such as Big Echo or Joysound are scattered all over the city, so you shouldn’t face any difficulties finding a suitable place to sing the night away together.

You don’t need to worry about the language barrier either. Not only can you change the language settings of the music tablet in your room to English, but songs are also available in multiple languages aside from Japanese. 

Karaoke rooms tend to be more expensive on the weekend (including Fridays). If you want to save some money, plan your karaoke night on a regular weekday.

13. Enjoy nightlife in Roppongi

Known for its sophisticated flair, Roppongi allows you to explore the modern side of Tokyo. Theatres, art museums, and shopping centres, as well as high-end bars, pubs, and clubs, adorn the streets of this versatile multi-faceted district.

When the sun sets, Roppongi turns into what is said to be one of the best nightlife districts in Tokyo. If you‘re into clubbing and bar hopping, you’re in the right place here.

14. Play in Akihabara’s arcades

You’ll find arcades everywhere in Tokyo, but Akihabara has them in abundance. Known as the electronic hub of the city, this district will make every gamer’s heart overflow with joy. If you’re visiting during the day, make sure to check out some of the retro game stores , too.

No matter if you’re looking for crane and gacha machines, rhythm and dance games, or a heated Mario Kart battle – Tokyo’s Electric Town won’t let you down. Many of the arcades are open until late in the evening. Moreover, seeing Akihabara at night with all its neon lights and illuminated signs is something not to miss out on.

15. Visit Yomiuri Land and Tokyo Dome City 

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are undeniably among the most popular attractions to have a fun day. What many travellers don’t know: There are more theme parks to check out for a good rollercoaster ride. Not only that, some of them host special events at night, too.

Yomiuri Land , an amusement park located on the outskirts of Tokyo, is known for its special illumination in the colder months and makes for a great photo spot at night. Since the opening hours may vary during the light-up event between late autumn and early spring, it is best to double-check them just in case.

Tokyo Dome City may not be a theme park in the traditional sense, but it houses a nice selection of facilities.

Choose among a bowling alley, a roller skate arena, a space for indoor sports, and more on your visit. Additionally, you can ride a roller-coaster in the admission-free outdoor amusement area (open until 9 p.m.). However, be aware that you’ll have to pay for each ride separately. 

Tokyo Dome City is also great for unwinding. The natural hot spring spa and sauna are accessible all night long.

16. Buy tickets for an event at Tokyo Dome

Speaking of Tokyo Dome , how about attending a concert or sports match in one of the biggest venues in the city at night?

You can find an event calendar with upcoming concerts and instructions on how to book tickets for baseball matches on their official website .

Conclusion – The best things to do in Tokyo at night 

You see, there are plenty of things to do in Tokyo at night. 

As one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Japan’s capital has a variety of unique places and experiences to offer. Why not make your next night out in Tokyo even more memorable by adding some of the above activities to your bucket list?

If you’re looking for more tips, check out our guide to the best things to do in Tokyo (including the daytime!).

Sabrina holds a bachelor’s degree in Japanese Studies and has spent the past one and a half years studying in Germany, Japan, and Korea as a graduate student in Transnational European and East Asian Studies. In 2018, her journey led her to Kyoto where she experienced Japan’s traditional side for twelve months. Currently living near Tokyo, she enjoys her free time reading novels, trying all things matcha, and exploring the 47 prefectures of her favourite country.

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Tokyo at Night – 45 Things To Do Guide + Photos 2024

Tokyo at night is one of the best cities in the world – a kaleidoscope of colourful lights, late night bites and 24 hour shopping delights, Tokyo at night is an epic evening of entertainment.

From Akihabara’s Electric Town karaoke to the Kawaii delights of Harajuku and Takeshita Street , there is something to suit all ‘tastes’ – and yep, there is even a Love Hotel Hill in Shibuya.

This post may contain affiliate links to tours and hotels. These help us earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

There are lots of free things to enjoy in Tokyo at night too, from Shinjuku’s street performers to night-time observation decks, plus the world’s biggest free permanent light show.

From the Godzilla head to stress-relieving spas, maid cafes to craft beer bars , here is our ultimate guide to things to do in Tokyo at night in 2024.

You might like these Tokyo neighbourhood guides: Akihabara Asakusa Ginza Harajuku Ikebukuro Nakano Odaiba Ryogoku Shibuya Shimokitazawa Shinjuku Also check out our Where to stay in Tokyo guide

Table of Contents

Recommended Tokyo accommodation and hotels

If you want to see the best of Tokyo at night, be sure to stay in one of the central entertainment districts like Shinjuku , Shibuya or Akihabara ( Asakusa is also nice).

Tokyo’s best hotels include:

Budget ($) The Millennials Shibuya Highly rated hostel with modern capsule style rooms. Facilities include a workspace, kitchen and lounge, plus unlimited free draft beer between 5.30pm and 6.30pm everyday!  Check rates and availability for The Millennials Shibuya

Mid-Range ($$) Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (AKA Shinjuku Godzilla) Popular hotel with a terrace that has a giant Godzilla head!  Check rates and availability for Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Mid-Range ($$) The Tourist Hotel & Cafe Akihabara Highly rated 3 star hotel located close to Akihabara station.  Check rates and availability for The Tourist Hotel & Cafe Akihabara

Luxury ($$$) Hilton Tokyo Hotel Luxury 5 star hotel located in west Shinjuku, with indoor pool, sauna, fitness centre, salon, restaurants and a free shuttle to the train station.  Check rates and availability for The Hilton Tokyo

Luxury ($$$) Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya Stylish and centrally located 5 star boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace / bar / restaurant.  Check rates and availability for Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya

Check Tokyo Hotel rates and availability with Booking.com or Hostelworld.com .

Tokyo at Night things to do

1. shinjuku golden gai at night.

Best visited at night, Golden Gai is a series of narrow alleyways and streets packed full of small hole-in-the-wall style bars and tiny taprooms.

A popular place for locals and expats, Golden Gai comes alive at night with buzzing bars, popular pubs and small sake sipping spaces (try saying that after a few highballs).

Very photogenic (especially on rainy nights when the neon lights reflect in puddles) and atmospheric, most of the bars only have a handful of seats and each pub seemingly has its own set of rules and regulations.

Also take note that some (but not all) Golden Gai bars charge an entry fee on top of the drinks and snack prices and some bars are Japanese only – so you want to double check as you enter. ‘Kanpai’ to a memorable night out in Golden Gai!

Check out this Shinjuku izakaya and Golden Gai bar hopping tour or Shinjuku Golden Gai food tour.

2. Catch a Tokyo baseball game

Baseball in Tokyo and Japan is one of the countries most popular sports (along with sumo wrestling ).

So if you happen to be visiting Tokyo at night during the Japanese baseball season (usually March to October), you must purchase tickets and make a home-run to see the Yomiuri Giants play at the Tokyo Dome.

Tokyo Baseball tickets can easily be bought by foreigners or visitors, either online or in person at the Tokyo Dome Box Office. You can sometimes purchase tickets using the kiosks in Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven or Lawson .

From ticket prices to food and drink plus live entertainment, here is our guide to getting Tokyo baseball tickets plus what to expect at the ground >

You might like these Japan chain restaurants guides CoCo Ichibanya > Denny’s > Kura Sushi > Matsunoya Tonkatsu > Mister Donut > Saizeriya >

3. Late night Tokyo karaoke

OK, karaoke in Tokyo at night might be a cliche but we do know it is pretty inexpensive and really good fun (especially if you are visiting after going to an izakaya or Tokyo craft beer bar ).

Karaoke is commonplace in Tokyo / Japan but Akihabara has its fair share of karaoke booths and lounges (over 10 on our last count). Incidentally, if you’d rather do karaoke by day, the daytime rates are a bit cheaper.

Given the area’s reputation, several of the karaoke lounges even have themed rooms like the Monster Hunter concept karaoke room at Karaoke Pasela Akihabara.

All the major chains can be found in Tokyo like Big Echo, Karaoke Manekineko and Karaoke Kan , and song language choices usually include Japanese, English and Mandarin.

This is one of the best late night activities in Tokyo with most karaoke lounges open from 9am until 5am to 6am the next morning – so get singing!

Check out this karaoke night party in Tokyo or Tokyo karaoke party in Ikebukuro with a drink.

4. Kabukichō Tokyo night ‘delights’

If you only plan to see one lit-up area of Shinjuku/ Tokyo lit at night, make it Kabukichō, the heart and soul and night-time capital of the area.

Best described as a heady mix of sass and seediness, a lot of the bars in the Kabukichō area are quite ‘adult focused’ and many of the clubs have girls dressed in outfits beckoning you in or handing out flyers.

Be aware that many bars in Kabukichō have an admission fee or minimum spend and some tourists have been known to have been drugged and woken up to find their money gone and credit cards maxed out. So have fun in Tokyo at night but be safe too!

The Kabukichō Shinjuku streets are generally safe to walk around at night and there is lots of security outside most ‘entertainment’ establishments.

Check out this dark side of Tokyo night walking tour of Kabukicho or this Shinjuku guided walking tour at night .

5. Shinjuku Lightshow – the world’s largest projection mapping show

New for 2024, the world’s largest projection mapping show now takes place nightly projected onto the side of Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Number 1 building.

As featured in the Guinness World Records as the largest permanent show of its kind, the building lights up every evening between several different shows, each designed by a different local Tokyo artist (a recent introduction to the lightshow was Godzilla).

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building projection mapping shows currently run every day from 7pm in the winter months and from 7.30pm in the summer (until around 9pm to 9.30pm approx at night).

You might like – Plan My Japan’s guide to the top Tokyo immersive experiences >

6. Asakusa observatory at night (free)

One of the best free Tokyo observatories is open at night – head to the free Asakusa Observatory atop the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center .

Located on the top floor, the Asakusa observatory is open daily from 9am until 10pm and offers stunning views of Sensō-ji temple, nearby Nakamise-dori Street plus a view of the Sumida River and the Asahi Golden Flame building (jokingly known locally as the ‘golden turd’ due to its interesting shape).

One of the best free things to do in Asakusa , the observatory can be accessed via the lifts.

Try this – Top Asakusa tours with Viator >

7. Shinjuku street performers at night

One of our favourite sights and sounds of Shinjuku was the nightly array of buskers and street performers that sang and played live music outside Shinjuku Station.

They can be found from dusk onwards on the pavement, in front of the station, facing across from the Shinjuku Southern Terrace mall.

Whilst some singers were great (and some not so), most Shinjuku singers and street performers seem to have their own fan clubs / fan groups who attend every gig with light sticks, whooping along – it is so much fun!

Many Shinjuku singers also live stream their performances to their adoring followers, many of whom tip online.

Try this – Licensed guide Shinjuku underground mall tour in Tokyo >

8. NinjaBar Asakusa

Heard about the ‘underground’ ninja bar in Tokyo? Asakusa is usually associated with Sensō-ji Kappabashi street but beneath its streets lies a very unique and unusual thing to do in Tokyo – the subterranean NinjaBar, Tokyo’s top themed ninja bar.

A sake and beer bar operated by a secretive and stealthy ninja, the NinjaBar is a fun night out in Asakusa and a fun experience with over 300 sakes to choose from.

From the quirky interiors to drink prices (and the samurai sword toilet key), release your inner ‘otaku’ with our full guide to drinking in Tokyo’s NinjaBar >

Try this – Skip the lines at the Tokyo Samurai Museum or a family friendly samurai sword experience

9. Omoide Yokochō (AKA P*ss alley) at night

One of the best things to do in Shinjuku (link) at Tokyo at night – take a stroll down Omoide Yokochō, day or night.

By day, Omoide Yokocho is full of small eateries frequented by workers and salarymen.

As evening falls, the alleyways are teeming with tourists and locals drinking beer and sake in close proximity – conversations and good cheer emanate from the dozens of small bars and restaurants.

Omoide Yokochō means ‘Memory Lane’ in Japanese and started life as quite a notorious black market hang-out full of illicit back-street bars in the 1940s.

As the bars were so small and often didn’t have toilets, drinkers would often have to relieve themselves in alleys or train tracks outside – hence the ‘P*ss Alley’ nickname for Omoide Yokochō.

These days, it still retains a little of its original grit but many of the eateries here are quite mainstream now (like Coco Ichibanya ) and some of the most frequented in Shinjuku.

Popular joints include ramen stalls (with only a half dozen seats – eat quick!) and izakayas. The smell of grilled yakitori also wafts through the alleys – be sure to arrive hungry!

Try this – the best Shinjuku bar and izakaya crawls or Shinjuku Golden Gai drinking tours

10. Tokyo 3D Billboards at night

Fun for all ages at night in Tokyo (and free), huge crowds gather to watch several huge immersive 3D billboards across Tokyo, featuring immersive cartoon characters like a 3D cat or playful panda.

As of 2024, there are four huge and popular 3D billboards in Tokyo:

• the calico cat in Shinjuku (the very first 3D billboard that started it all off)
• the adorable akita inu puppy in Shibuya
• a playful panda near Shibuya Crossing
• a 3D billboard in Harajuku

Check out our cult of 3D billboards in Tokyo article with videos >

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Plan my Japan (@planmyjapan)

11. Hoppy Street at night

Kanpai to Asakusa’s Hoppy Street, packed full of izakayas, outdoor bars and a generally very merry place to be in Tokyo at night!

Hoppy Street lives up to its name and is full of boozed up characters, happy hours galore and some delicious smelling soul food like yakitori skewers or steaming bowls of ramen.

Open until very late, this is an awesome and atmospheric drinking street to visit at night, sip some sake and get friendly with the locals – so hop on over to Hoppy Street.

You might like – 40 things to do in Tokyo with kids >

12. Shinjuku Godzilla Head

Perhaps the most famous night-time sight in Shinjuku, the ‘roarsome’ Godzilla head sits atop Hotel Gracery Shinjuku and the Shinjuku Toho Building, looking out across Tokyo’s sublime cityscape. It even roars and has smoke emerging from the mouth every hour or so in the evening.

If you are lucky enough to stay at  Hotel Gracery Shinjuku , there are even some rooms you can pay a premium for to look out across the city with Shinjuku Godzilla’s head in shot – plus there is a small viewing deck next to it and lots of Godzilla theming across the hotel.

Don’t worry, if you aren’t staying in the hotel, you can still get a great view of Shinjuku Godzilla from Shinjuku Central road, next to Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho.

You might like – Top Tokyo Food Tours on Viator >

13. Love Hotel Hill, Shibuya

If you feel the need to rent a hotel by the hour in Shibuya (lucky you), head to the Love Hotel Hill (we explored here but just to visit the Mikkeller Tokyo craft beer bar – honest).

Tokyo is known for its love hotels and Shibuya is a hotspot of hourly hotels, known for their affairs and romantic themed rooms.

Ikebukuro is another neighbourhood with a hotchpotch of hourly hotels and themed hotels like Hotel West One.

It is quite the weird experience and you can even see some quite weird and wonderful posters in the hotel windows where you can rent ‘toy’s and the like.

Probably not somewhere you will want to visit with your parents or elderly relatives.

PS If you don’t get lucky on Love Hotel Hill, you can always check out our ‘stimulating’  guide to TENGA, Japan’s biggest love toy company >

Looking for Shibuya accommodation but not on Love Hotel Hill?  Check Shibuya accommodation availability with Booking.com >

You might like – Tokyo bar hopping night tour in Shinjuku >

14. Asakusa Yokocho

Asakusa Yokocho is a neon hotbed of cool street food eateries and Japanese restaurants with some top theming (you can even pose as a ninja next to a well ‘lit’ neon background).

As well as an epic epicurean experience at night, you can hire traditional costumes here plus in the daytime, there is a nice outdoor terrace (although not on the scale of nearby Asakusa Observatory).

Inside, you’ll find everything from iconic izakaya bars to sushi and sashimi plus Korean fried chicken. People come here for the festive theming of Asakusa Yokocho so some say this appears to be the focus more so than the food quality.

You might like – Our guide to BIC Camera stores in Japan >

15. Kimono Rental

Kimono rental in Tokyo is usually a daytime activity but many offer 24 hour rental so make the most of this and do some traditional kimono photos in Tokyo at night.

Given all of the historic temples and ancient alleyways in Asakusa, traditional kimono rental is a popular activity – we’d often see tourists wearing kimono rentals at night, often with the Tokyo Sky Tree tower as a stunning backdrop.

You can either hire costumes and take them out for the day or some kimono rental agencies can also organise professional photographers to accompany you.

There are several places to hire kimonos in Asakusa including:

• Kimono Yae rental experience in Asakusa >
• Kimono rental experience at Kimono Komachi Ruri Asakusa >
• Traditional kimono rental experience at WARGO Asakusa >

16. Don Quijote – 24 hour shopping

Don Quijote Japan discount department stores are home to thousands of items generally at low prices, from Hello Kitty to Japanese Kit Kats (plus more interesting ‘adult sections’ selling TENGA ).

The best Kawaii Don Quijote store in Tokyo has to Mega Don Quijote Shibuya – it has eight floors of purchasing pleasure plus you can even try the legendary 10 Yen cheese pancake!

Head to floor 7 of Shibuya Mega Don Quijote for one of Tokyo’s largest character selections (including Kirby and Hello Kitty) plus travel goods.

Don Quijote Akihabara is also one of the best Don Quijotes in Tokyo and is open 24 hours a day, so it is somewhere to shop day and night in Akihabara.

Please note many of Tokyo’s larger Don Quijotes are open 24 hours but some close in the early hours.

You might like Plan My Japan’s guide to Don Quijote stores >

17. AKB48 Theater live music venue

‘Give Me Five’! One of J-pop’s most iconic girl groups (with a mainly male fan-base), AKB48 is named after the Akihabara area and regularly perform in the AKB48 Theater, which is (weirdly) above the Don Quijote Akihabara store.

Formed in 2005, the AKB48 girl group has had many different members over the years (and various versions including trainees) and is one of the biggest selling Japanese female acts of all time.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by AKB48 (@akb48)

The AKB48 Theater in Akihabara is a way to see the girl group (or a version of it) up close (and well attended by sweaty men with glow sticks).

Such is the AKB48 phenomenon, they even have international AKB48 theatres and groups overseas in countries such as Taiwan and China.

AKB48 Theater tickets are not easy to come by – the theater only has a capacity of 250 people (so you can get up close) and AKB48 tickets are usually allocated by lottery.

You can increase your chances of getting AKB48 tickets by becoming a paying member of their fan-club.

Try this – A private night tour of Tokyo >

18. Shibuya Center Gai

The heart and soul of Shibuya, Center Gai is a narrow street packed full of chain restaurants, convenience stores, fashion shops and nightclubs.

One of the best places to explore in Tokyo at night, Shibuya Center Gai is an atmospheric alley-way and neon nirvana, home to pubs, bars and one of the city’s best collection of sneaker and record stores.

A bit like Akihabara or Kabukicho in Shinj u ku , join all of Tokyo’s cool kids with a Shibuya Center Gai late-night shopping or sunset supping session.

You might like – 20 best cheap chain restaurants in Tokyo >

19. Shopping in Tokyo at night

Tokyo is a shopping heaven, from the high end fashion stores of Ginza to cute Kawaii stores in Harajuku and Akihabara.

Japan’s capital city Tokyo makes for a joyful shopping experience with BIG malls, many of which have opulent interiors (plus incredible food halls to ‘reward’ yourself afterwards in).

Better yet, most Tokyo department stores and malls are usually open until at least 9pm at night (some later) – and don’t forget you can always head to selected MEGA Don Quijote stores for 24 hour shopping.

Check out our guide to Tokyo’s 30+ best shopping malls and districts >

20. Yurakucho Sanchoku Inshokugai

Hidden away beneath a busy railway arch, Yurakucho Alley is full of cool little eateries, dive bars and iconic izakayas and is one of the best things to do in Ginza at night.

Lit by lanterns and like a scene from a movie, Yurakucho Sanchoku Inshokugai Alley is famed for its regional ingredients and fresh foods.

Each restaurant in the alley has an indoor seating area plus lots of small box style tables and chairs outside.

Half the fun here is deciding where to eat plus the smells wafting along the alleyway are sublime.

Yurakucho Sanchoku Inshokugai Alley is located between JR Shimbashi station and Yurakucho Station.

You might like – Top 20 products to buy from Daiso Japan >

21. Tokyo Sumo Wrestling

‘Wrestling’ with what to do in Tokyo at night or some epic evening entertainment?

Sumo Wrestling is a BIG sport in Japan (literally) and no trip to Japan is complete without purchasing tickets for a Tokyo sumo wrestling match at the Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena.

If you happen to be in Tokyo during a national sumo tournament (usually every January, May or September in Tokyo), do try and get a ticket as it is one of our top 5 experiences in Japan, up there with seeing the snow monkeys in Nagano.

Check out our guide to going to a Tokyo sumo wrestling tournament here and how to get tickets >

Incidentally, if you are in Tokyo outside of sumo wrestling tournament time, there are lots of Tokyo sumo wrestling things to do from chowing down on ‘chanko nabe’ (sumo wrestler stew) to enjoying a sumo wrestling show with dinner .

You might like Plan My Japan’s guide to 10+ Tokyo sumo wrestling activities >

22. The American / New York Bar at Park Hyatt Tokyo (temporarily closed until October 2025)

Relive ‘Lost in Translation’ at Tokyo’s Park Hyatt hotel – not only does it have incredible views of Tokyo and live jazz music most nights, it is also where most of the key scenes between Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson took place in ‘Lost in Translation’.

Get there very early to guarantee a prime seat with city views or get a good spot to see the live musicians.

Please be aware that the New York Bar at the Park Hyatt Tokyo is currently closed for renovations until at least October 2025.

Try this – Tokyo after 5: savouring culinary delights of Japan >

23. Ikebukuro Nightlife

Perhaps best known for its late night bars, night-clubs and adult clubs, Ikebukuro is an izakaya hot-spot plus there are some very ‘interesting’ bars at night like the one with girls dressed as Playboy bunnies trying to beckon you in.

From maid and butler cafes to moonwalk bar, Bar Libre to Hub Pubs , Ikebukuro caters for all tastes at night, be they culinary or carnal. Be aware that many bars in Ikebukuro charge for entry or company and prices can be expensive – buyer beware.

Try this – Local bar and ramen hopping tour in Ikebukuro >

24. Tokyo late night gaming arcades

There are plenty of games arcades and retro gaming machines in Tokyo – the biggest and best arcades are typically Taito Station and SEGA GIGO (try Akihabara , Ikebukuro or Shinjuku ).

They all have the usual UFO / claw machines, dance machines, photo booths and cool games like Taiko no Tatsujin Japanese Drumming Game . If you only have time to visit one, our recommendation would be SEGA Ikebukuro GIGO.

Alternatively, Namco Akihabara arcade comprises six floors of gaming and is the first official Namco arcade in Akihabara. It has everything from trading card tables (5F) to official Bandai Namco gachapon machines (4F) and crane games galore plus Gundam.

You might like – Our guide to Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo in Ikebukuro, Japan’s biggest Pokémon Centre >

25. Tokyo craft beer bars at night

Kanpai to Tokyo’s craft beer bar scene and brewery beer halls ! From Tokyo’s top taprooms to more modern pubs, Tokyo’s craft beer bars are a fun thing to do at night after a day of sightseeing.

Tokyo has much to offer craft beer drinkers, from pour your own pints in Shinjuku to international beers at Mikeller or ØL by Oslo Brewing Co . Many Tokyo craft beer bars offer dozens of draft beers and hundreds of Japanese craft beer cans.

From legendary pubs like Beer Club Popeyes to backstreet gems like Shibuya’s Y.Y.G. Brewery & Beer Kitchen , here is our guide to the best Tokyo craft beer bars and brewery halls with photos >

Prefer sake over beer? Try this sake tasting class with a sake sommelier >

Please note the legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years of age – please drink responsibly.

26. Tokyo Go Karting at night

You’ve played the video games but now you can actually whizz through the streets of Tokyo at night on go-karts dressed as gaming characters (but not officially as Mario, Luigi or Princess Daisy as Nintendo’s lawyers have put paid to that).

Tour Tokyo’s night-time highlights dressed as cute, Kawaii comic characters seeing sights like the Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa and Akihabara.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Street Kart (@streetkarttour)

Tokyo street go-karting prices vary depending on the experience but most Tokyo go-kart experiences cost between 15,000 Yen to 20,000 Yen per person as of summer 2024. There are both daytime and night-time street karting tours in Tokyo.

Please note an international drivers license is required to go street karting in Tokyo.

Book your Tokyo Mario Style Go Kart tour with Klook or Viator.

27. Cat Cafe Mocha Tokyo

Tokyo Cat Cafe Mocha is one of the most ‘purr-fect’ things to do in Tokyo at night  – ‘fur’ real.

With around 7 Mocha Cat Cafe Tokyo locations including Akihabara , Harajuku and Shinjuku – you can also find them across Japan including Mocha cat cafes in Osaka , Kyoto and Fukuoka.

You might have been to cat cafes in the past but the Tokyo Mocha Cat Cafes take it to the next kitty level.

We think cat feeding time at Mocha Cat Cafe might be the cutest thing we ever did in Japan.  You should visit these top Tokyo cat cafes right ‘miaow’ – well before 8pm at night, as that is when they close.

Feeding time is usually 10:30am and 7:30pm at night (half an hour after opening and half an hour before closing).

From prices to cute kitty pictures, here is our guide to Mocha Cat Cafe in Tokyo with photos >

28. Tokyo Hub Pubs

‘Kanpai’ to a little bit of Britain in Tokyo – walk around Tokyo at night and it won’t be long before you see the gleaming lights and hanging pub sign of a HUB Bar or 82 Ale House.

One of Japan’s biggest bar chains with over 100 pubs, the 82 Ale House and HUB pubs are British themed pubs that have (VERY) happy hours, pub grub style food plus bar interiors just like British pubs.

You’ll find Hub Pubs in every Tokyo late-night neighborhood like Ikebukuro , Shinjuku , Akihabara and Shibuya.

The bars are popular with both locals (especially ‘salary men’) and overseas tourists (particularly from Europe, the USA and Australia).

Whilst it may not be a traditional Japanese night out, it does make for a fun night out in Tokyo (especially where there is live sports on).

Bringing a bit British pub culture to Tokyo, raise your glass to our guide to drinking and eating in 82 Ale Houses and Hub British bars in Japan >

29. Puri-kura a plenty – Japanese photo booths

Looking to take a cute Kawaii selfie or pop into a Japanese photo booth? There are plenty of ‘puri-kara’ photo booth stores in Harajuku open late at night especially along Takeshita Street.

Purikura Noa is one of the most popular Puri-kara / photo booth stalls here. You can choose character backgrounds or cosplay outfits, plus there are even make-up stations and tables full of props and plushies – so get snap happy!

You might like – Our guide to the 35+ top Japanese foods to try >

30. Ryu no Miyako Inshokugai

This neon-lit food court and late-night bar complex is epic – boasting almost 20 street food eateries, sake bars and dining experiences, Ryu no Miyako Inshokugai is one of the most popular places to eat in Shinjuku, especially at the weekends.

This Shinjuku Yokocho style eatery recreates the narrow alleyways of Tokyo in a cavernous huge building, kinda like Golden Gai on a grand scale.

There are three floors of food at Ryu no Miyako Inshokugai, from Japanese izakaya style bars to international eateries serving up Thai, Chinese noodles or pasta pronto.

The basement levels have a rather good line up of ramen noodle restaurants and the theming is top notch.

A short walk (or stumble) from Shinjuku Station, Ryu no Miyako Inshokugai is open 24 hours a day (selected stalls) and great for late night bites or boozy brunch and lunches.

31. Thermae-Yu Onsen

Time to get steamy in Shinjuku at night (and we don’t mean in a Golden Gai backroom kind of way).

Thermae-Yu Onsen is a public spa, sauna and hot pools that are open 24 hours a day. You can even have hot scrub treatments to get rid of the hangovers you might experience from all the nearby izakayas.

You could stay here for hours as there is a bar, restaurant, cafe and shop onsite to enjoy mid soak.

Please note onsen bathing at Thermae-Yu Shinjuku is nude and tattoos are not allowed.

Try this before the spa – Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku >

32. Hooters Tokyo

If you are looking for some cheap eats or daytime drinking in lively surroundings, the Hooters branch in Ginza might be for you! This is the last remaining Hooters Bar in Tokyo as of summer 2024.

If you weren’t already aware of this bright orange eatery, Hooters is a huge worldwide sports bar and American diner chain with several locations in Japan including Ginza in Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka .

As well as its cheap beer and massive food menus and lunch specials, Hooters is perhaps best known for its chirpy waitresses and happy hour specials such as cheap chicken wings.

You might like – Our guide to Tsukiji Outer Market Tokyo (formerly Tsukiji Fish Market) >

33. Kura Sushi Tokyo at night – open until 11pm

Kura Sushi has to be Japan’s most joyful revolving sushi bar (“kaitenzushi”) and conveyor belt restaurant.

All of the sushi and drinks arrive by conveyor belt, plus putting away your finished dishes has been ‘gamified’. For every five dirty plates you drop into a slot on your table, you get a free go at an online game – great for families and big kids of all ages!

As prices at Kura Sushi in Japan start from just 110 Yen ( less than $1 / £1 a piece), it is one of the most affordable and authentic revolving sushi bar experiences you’ll encounter.

Most Kura sushi restaurants are open until 11pm at night (last orders at 10:30pm) including the new Kura Sushi Ginza flagship branch.

From ordering food to sushi conveyor belt etiquette (plus our visit to Japan’s largest Kura Sushi), here is our ultimate guide to eating at Kura Sushi in Japan >

34. Nakano Fureai Road

Eat, drink and be merry around Fureai Road (which also translates as ‘Getting to Know Each Other’ in Japanese). From the merriment of maid cafes to copious beers in the numerous izakayas here, this is Nakano’s top nightspot and nocturnal playground.

A myriad of bars and restaurants, Nakano’s Fureai Road is also one of Tokyo’s most photogenic streets.

At night, all the various eateries and bar’s signs light up to create an incredible nightscape, reminiscent of a Hong Kong street-scene.

Given all the reflections, it is also a popular photography spot when it rains in Tokyo.

35. Late night okonomiyaki

One of our best nights in Tokyo was eating at the Aka Oni okonomiyaki restaurant (in Ikebukuro ) during a Tokyo baseball game .

The restaurant is renowned as a popular spot to watch the Tokyo and Hiroshima teams playing, and has baseball merchandise and posters all over the walls – a cool way to watch live Tokyo baseball with local fans.

Better still, the Aka Oni Okonomiyaki was one of the best okonomiyaki we had in Tokyo, cooked on a hot griddle in front of us, served up with ice-cold beers.

The place was packed with workers eating well, drinking highballs and watching the sign. Highly recommended

If you are based in the UK, check out our guide to London’s best okonomiyaki restaurants >

36. Grab a gachapon

Gachapon capsule toy stores are open until very late in Tokyo, and many are accessible 24 hours including the ones in convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart .

Popular with otaku (オタク – Japanese pop culture) and visiting families, Gachapon machines in Japan are vending machines that dispense capsule toys in a small round plastic case.

Most gachapon machines have four to six types in each machine meaning you often don’t know which one you are going to get.

The world’s biggest gachapon store is Gashapon Ikebukuro Main Store , which has between 3,000 and 4,000 gachapon machines (and open until 9pm).

Harajuku is also home to CAPSULE LAB Harajuku Takeshita Street which is open til 9pm. For the best choice of late night gachapon stores, head to the Akihabara neighbourhood .

You might like our guide to the coolest gashapon capsule toys in Japan >

37. Ginza Lion Beer Hall

No less than Tokyo’s oldest beer hall and pub, a trip to Ginza Lion is like taking a step back in time.

A world away from the shiny skyscrapers and sleek shopping malls just metres away, the Ginza Lion Beer Hall is one of the most unique things to do in Ginza.

Built in the 1930s and now a listed building, Ginza’s gorgeous beer hall is very similar to the beer halls of Munich – it is almost like a little piece of Germany in Ginza.

All of the staff are very attentive and wear traditional uniforms – we also found Ginza’s beer hall a very popular place with the Japanese after work crowd / ‘salary men’ and women.

Read more in our guide to Ginza Lion Beer Hall >

38. Shibuya Scramble crossing at night

Perhaps the number one thing to do in Shibuya at night, Scramble crossing is said to be the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, with hundreds of thousands of commuters and visitors crossing the four way intersection every day.

Best viewed from Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya (open until 10.30pm) or the nearby malls, you also have to experience and traverse Shibuya Scramble Crossing for yourselves.

It can be quite a challenge during peak periods but it is much easier to get across without bumping into others at night. Another alternative in Tokyo at night is to head to Mag’s Rooftop overlooking the Shibuya Crossing and grab a beer with the view.

A fun activity by day or even in Tokyo at night, Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a spectacular site – the annual New Year’s Eve celebrations here are pretty awesome too (crowds still turn up every year despite there being no fireworks or NYE time ball anymore).

You might like our Shibuya things to do + neighborhood guide >

39. Shibuya Yokocho

The best way to describe Shibuya Yokocho? Yum, yum yum – or even ‘Kanpai!’.

An epic epicurean evening experience (try saying that after several sakes), Shibuya Yokocho is an awesome alleyway of traditional izakaya bars and Japanese restaurants, recreated by a modern building (so it is all ‘fake’ old).

A short walk from Shibuya Station, all of the bars and outdoor chairs and tables in close proximity make for an atmospheric night out – you can even try the famous sumo wrestling stew, Chanko Nabe.

Inside, gaze at vintage interiors lit by lanterns and retro stalls like candy shops or an old bath house – Shibuya Yokocho is sublime for a post-sunset session of sake and skewers; you’re welcome!

You might like – Our guide to Tokyo’s best garden, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden >

40. Kabuki-za Theatre

Likely Tokyo’s most famous theater, this venerable venue plays host to kabuki style Japanese theater in the evenings (plus there are often matinee performances).

Kabuki is known for its incredible costumes and make-up and you can see a kabuki show most nights at Kabuki-za Theatre (but you generally have to book well in advance).

It is worth a visit even if you don’t have theater tickets as you’ll often see performers outside drumming up business for future shows plus the facade is so beautiful- we really think it is one of the most photogenic buildings in Tokyo at night

The original Kabuki-za Theatre was built in 1889 but it has been rebuilt several times due to fires, bombings or earthquakes – the current Kabuki-za theatre may look old but only dates around 10 years.

Check out this Kabuki talk in Ginza tour >

41. Nonbei Yokocho

Or as it means in Japanese, ‘Drinkers Alley’ – so yes, Nonbei Yokocho in Shibuya is certainly our kind of place!

A couple of small lanes of candle-lit bars, interesting izakayas and retro ramen restaurants Nonbei Yokocho has been around since the 1950s and is a popular salaryman spot after work.

Lit by lanterns, this place is ‘snoozeville’ by day but an entertaining evening may lie ahead in Shibuya.

42. Play Pachinko

Hear the noise of coins rattling and arcade slots ringing? That’ll likely be one of the numerous Pachinko parlours (you’ll find them all over Tokyo at night).

A bit like casinos in the West, Pachinko arcades consist of hundreds of machines in close proximity where players play the pinball style Pachinko machines, where getting the balls in certain areas wins tokens or cash prizes.

Given each machine has dozens of small ball bearings and there are hundreds of machines constantly in play, the noise can be quite deafening – we also found them to be quite smokey places as cigarettes linger in the area.

There are several huge Pachinko parlors and lounges in Shinjuku including Maruhan, Kaleido Shinjuku, Vegas Vegas and Aladdin.

You might like – Our guide to the 12 best Tokyo parks and gardens >

43. Yurakucho yakitori alley

An outdoor enclave of yummy yakitori restaurants and popular izakayas, this is one of the most popular evening dining spots in Ginza, frequented by students, workers and the occasional tourist.

Chock full of little eateries and huge great restaurants, the area is located under the railway line (although the sound of trains is often drowned out by all the noise of cheerful diners and lots of ‘cheers’).

As well as lanterns and neon-lights, look out for the huge sake barrels / bottles outside many restaurants. Given competition is so fierce, many restaurants and bars in Yakitori Alley have inexpensive set-menus or evening drinks and dining offers.

Try this – Japanese Whisky Tasting Experience at Local Bar in Tokyo >

44. Ginza 300 bar

Japan’s very first standing bar where all drinks cost just 300 YEN (plus tax), the first branch of Ginza 300 opened in 1992 and has been packing them in ever since with several new additions to the chain.

Upon arrival, drinkers buy drinking tokens / tickets at 300 YEN each (plus tax) which is around £1.60 / $2USD. These can then be changed for any drinks or food on the menu. The minimum ticket purchase is three tokens at any one time and if you buy 10, you also get one free.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by GINZA 300BAR (@ginza300bar)

300 Yen food includes persimmon and cheese pizza, assorted pickles or chicken ranch salad and cocktails range from mint julips to mojitos. This is incredibly good value and a great place in Ginza to hang out after a ‘hard’ day of sightseeing.

Ginza 300 also has a very Happy Hour between 5pm and 7pm each day where drinks are 2 for the price of 1.

At the time of writing (February 2024), there are three Ginza 300 Yen bars in operation, all open from 4.30pm until midnight on weekdays and Sundays (and until 2am on Saturdays).

Tokyo at night – our final thing to do

45. tokyo convenience stores at night.

Japanese convenience stores (also known as ‘konbinis’ in Japan) are mostly open 24 hours and are a treasure trove of tasty snacks like egg sandwiches , plus alcohol like beer and sake.

There are around 55,000 convenience stores in Japan as of summer 2024 and the biggest convenience store chain is 7-Eleven with 22,000 7-Eleven stores, who sell oodles of instant noodles every day (although we think FamilyMart is much better).

Check out our Tokyo konbini convenience store guides:

• Lawson (the best egg sandwiches and fried chicken)
• Daily Yamazaki (the best bakery products)

You might like our guide to Japan’s viral craft beer 7-Eleven Hammerheads store , that has hundreds of different craft beers!

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What to See and Do in Tokyo at Night: 21 Great Activities

As one of the safest places in Japan and even the world, Tokyo is a great city to enjoy both day and night. Whether you have just a few days or several weeks to explore Japan’s capital, the nightlife is undoubtedly going to be part of your plans. You want the best restaurants, bars, shopping, and entertainment you can find.

What can you see and do in Tokyo at night? You have nearly countless options for nighttime excitement in Tokyo, such as:

• Visiting a coin bar
• Seeing a shrine, temple, or flower garden all lit up
• Sampling the endless restaurants and other eateries
• Popping into a themed bar
• Partaking in a summertime barbeque party
• Revving up for a go-kart ride
• Attending a live sports event
• Playing video games at a café or arcade
• Riding a roller coaster at a theme park

Has the above list whet your appetite and got you itching to try all the nighttime offerings in Tokyo? In this article, I’ll give you even more activities to do, including specific addresses and places to put on your itinerary. Let’s get started!

1. Enjoy Cheap Drinking at the Coins Bar 300

If you’re wondering why the Coins Bar 300 is touted as being such an affordable option, it’s because drinks there cost just ¥300. That’s the equivalent of $2.73 United States dollars. Trust me when I say you won’t find another deal like that around.

You do need a voucher to begin an evening of drinking, but once you have it, you’re ready for a fun time ahead. Many US tourists will gravitate towards the Coins Bar 300, so you’ll be far from alone if you’re missing home. Most of the staff there speak English as well, making this a great stop if you’re still adjusting to the language.

By the way, did I mention the cheap beer? If you think American beer is expensive, wait until you go to Japan. You’ll want to do all your drinking at a place like the Coins Bar 300.

2. Experience a Different Side of the Tracks with Gado Shita

The railway tracks that crisscross through Tokyo are impressive. If you’re traveling through the city, you’ll rely on those rail lines often. Have you ever seen what’s underneath them, though? Probably not since you’re always bustling from one place to another.

As you venture out into Tokyo at night, give those railway tracks a second glance. There’s plenty of restaurants and bars to behold underneath them. These are known as Gado Shita establishments. In Japanese, Gado Shita translates to “under the girders.” Despite being off the beaten path (literally), some of the bars here have a rich history, having been around for more than 50 years.

Try strolling the Yamanote Line, particularly from Shimbashi to Yurakucho. There, you should be able to spot clumps of bars and restaurants in a seemingly endless row. Do keep in mind that sometimes the trains passing will cause some vibrations if you’re inside a bar or restaurant. Also, since these establishments are so small, they can get a little humid, especially in the summer. Plan accordingly.

3. Check Out the Vowz Bar

While sure, there’s the nearby Geronimo Shot Bar that feels a little more American (it boasts a Wild West theme, after all), you’re in Japan, so you might be craving an experience that’s truly authentic. The Vowz Bar is pretty much as authentic as it gets.

You won’t just be drinking in this Shinjuku establishment. You could be the one behind the bar, being instructed on how to make drinks with Buddhist Monks! Even if you’re on the other side of the bar the whole night, hearing the Buddhist verses and seeing the unique dress of these Monks makes the Vowz Bar a must-visit.

Then there are the drinks. The Vowz Bar specializes in shaved cocktails, calling itself an original in this area. One beverage on the bar’s menu is named the Lust of Hell. It’s a deep ruby red concoction that’s just begging you to try it. You should also see the Paradise Gokuraku-Jodo, as it lives up to its name with its rainbow colors.

4. Go to Hibiya Oktoberfest

If you happen to be visiting Tokyo in July, then you should not miss Hibiya Oktoberfest . It’s a captivating fusion of German and Japanese traditions and cultures. Plus, it’s a great chance to take in the Gothic flavor of Hibiya Park, which has been around since 1903.

It turns out Hibiya Park has German roots as well. Several years after the park opened, in 1910, a house was erected with German style design. That background makes it the perfect home to host Hibiya Oktoberfest.

All the beer, food, and atmosphere you’re used to at Oktoberfests on your home turf will be here, and then some. Yes, that includes the larger-than-life beer steins and the equally sizable soft pretzels. The Hibiya Oktoberfest lasts for 10 days, so there’s plenty of time to eat, drink, and be merry, even if you do it several days in a row. I won’t tell.

5. Lose Hours Immersing Yourself at the 8 Bit Café

Japan certainly has its fair share of themed cafés, but in the evening hours, the 8 Bit Café is a nice refuge from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s city streets. If you want to do more than sip and play video games, you can also get some small bites to eat.

If you want to see what it’s like, take a quick look at this video.

The weekday hours are a little limited, as you can only hang around until midnight. On Fridays, the 8 Bit Café is open until 5 a.m., and on Saturdays, the fun stops at 1:30 in the morning. It is a little tough to find, as you’ll have to get there on foot from the Shinjukugyeon-Mae Station, walking for about seven minutes. Then, head to the bar nearby and go up to the fifth floor. You should see signage pointing you in the right direction.

The quarters are a little close inside, but if you’re looking to make some pals for the evening, huddling up and playing Mario or other gaming classics is as good a way as any to do so.

6. Go to a Tokyo Barbeque Party

If you can brave the heat and the rains of Tokyo in the summertime, then treat yourself to a more familiar treat: barbeque! Futako Shinchi and other riverside parks are the homes of these events. While it’s hard to tell who will host a barbeque party, you can typically find one by the huge throngs of people these gatherings attract.

The time of day doesn’t seem to influence when the barbeques happen, nor does the weather. Even if it’s raining or the middle of a weekday afternoon, someone somewhere will want to party it up with some barbeque food. Yes, the parties go on at night, too.

There are fewer better ways to enjoy the summer and immerse yourself in the wonders of Tokyo than to partake in one of these parties. If you’re lucky, a known DJ might even spin some tunes to get everyone in a fun mood. Good music and good food? It hardly gets better.

7. Get Dazzled at Magic Bar Tejinaya

Magic Bar Tejinaya isn’t called that for no reason. This bar is one of the only places where you can see a magic show while sipping on a wide array of drinks. It may be another themed bar, but it stands out due to the nature of the entertainment.

If you’re near Seibu-Shinjuku Station, then Magic Bar Tejinaya is only a short five-minute trip by foot. The bar is open late into the night, like very late; it doesn’t close until 5 a.m. It’s a great option for those who want some middle-of-the night drinking and fun.  

You don’t have to young to appreciate the mysticism of a magic show, just young at heart. As you get bewitched and stupefied, you’ll find that the Magic Bar Tejinaya is just one more reason of many to love Tokyo.

Architecture/Nature

8. stroll through ashikaga flower park in the moonlight.

With a history that stretches way back to 1870, Ashikaga Flower Park is hard to miss due to its countless wisteria blooms. In Japan, the flower is known as fuji. If you want to see every fuji color available, you can at the park. Here, yellow, purple, and pink flowers grow in beautiful vividness.

There are eight other flower gardens to behold on the grounds, so plenty more blooms are well-represented as well. While you’d of course want to plan your trip to Ashikaga Flower Park in the spring or summer to see the full breadth of the flowers, if you’re in Tokyo in the winter, feel free to come by as well. There are winter light shows that will make your visit worthwhile and get you in the mood for the holidays to boot.

For those reasons and many more, you should certainly make it a point to come to Ashikaga Flower Park on at least one of your nights in Tokyo. By moonlight, the tall structures that house the hanging wisteria are illuminated by glowing lights that mingle with the flowers. It’s a magical, romantic experience you have to see to believe.

9. Take a Few Minutes to Appreciate the Huge Gundam Statue

If you’re near the Tokyo Teleport Station, you only have to walk about six minutes to get to the Gundam Statue. Trust me when I say you can’t miss it if you’re in the vicinity. The thing is 64.6 feet high. You don’t even have to be a fan of Gundams or anime to appreciate this oversized slice of Japanese culture.

The RX-78-2 Gundam was the original installation, but as of 2017, a Unicorn Gundam was added. It’s 5.5 feet higher, making the whole sight even more magnificent. Not only that, but it has a bonus Destroyer mode and will transform off and on daily. Since the area housing the statue is open 24/7, you can take in the magnificence of it anytime. I recommend doing so at night. Not only will there probably be less of a crowd (hopefully!), but the lights that surround the Gundam statue make it look even more awesome.

Make sure you snap a selfie or several to make all your friends back home jealous. Just don’t expect to fit the whole Gundam in the picture unless you’re standing several feet away from it.

10. Ascend the Skytree Observation Deck

There are tons of observation decks scattered throughout Japan, but if you’re limited on time and want the best of the best , that can only be the Skytree . It’s 2,080 feet high, making it the tallest tower in the world. Like the Gundam statue, it’s very hard to miss it. It’s even more pervasive than the giant robot figure. It’s only on overcast days that the Skytree becomes enshrouded and hard to detect.

As soon as you walk into the observation building, you’re greeted with a floor covered in glass. Continuing up, your view of Tokyo will be more and more awe-inspiring. There are hardly words to describe the view if you can make it to the very top. No matter how many spectacular sights there are in Tokyo, the Skytree is unmatchable.

If you’re by Sensoji Temple, you’ll have to hoof it 25 minutes on foot to get to the Skytree. Even from Asakusa Station, you’d have to walk 20 minutes. While it’s not necessarily the easiest structure to get to, you’ll want to put it on your must-see list regardless. Just be ready to do some more walking since the Skytree is such a behemoth of a building.  

Still not sure if Tokyo Skytree is for you? Then you really should read Is Tokyo Skytree Worth it? Original photos and a few pro tips.

11. Get a Dose of Culture at the Sensoji Temple

Speaking of the Sensoji Temple, I’d recommend you spend some time there if you’re near the Skytree. It’s worth seeing, and nighttime might be one of the only chances you get to do so. Most days, the Sensoji Temple is mobbed, but the crowd thins out once the sun goes down.

It’s one of the oldest pieces of architecture in Tokyo. Depending on which time of year (or day) you’re there, you can participate in all sorts of interesting events. On New Year’s Day, there’s the customary Hatsmuode trip to the shrine. This is considered a must to ensure a good year ahead. You can also receive your omikuji fortune, venture to the purification fountain, or join in on an incense ritual.

On Nakamise Dori, a nearby street, you’ll find plenty of delicious street food and souvenir shops, nearly 90 in all. It’s impossible to explore them all in one evening, but you can certainly try! Another landmark of note are the giant owaraji or woven sandals at the Thunder Gate. These are kept at the temple as a tribute to its Nio protectors. If all those reasons haven’t convinced you to go, then know that the Sensoji Temple just looks nicer at night when all the lights come on. Now aren’t you convinced?

12. Attend a Hanami Party

Few flowers are more beloved in Japan than sakura or cherry blossoms. These tall trees have large, stretching branches laced with seemingly millions of the pink flowers. To see as much sakura as you could ever wish for, make sure you go to a Hanami party. In Japanese, this means a “flower viewing.”

You’ll often have to be in Tokyo during the springtime for such an event, since this is when the sakura trees are in full bloom. Make sure you get to the party grounds as early as possible if you want a good spot. It’s not uncommon for people to arrive way ahead of time to claim their place, up to 12 hours early. Once you do settle in, you can mark your area with a blue mat. Make sure you take your shoes off as a sign of respect before you sit on the mat.

Besides just the flowers, sometimes there are live DJs at Hanami parties. Picnic food and alcohol are also common sights, but you’ll probably have to bring your own (unless someone is feeling generous!). If there’s no DJs around, expect live music or some other impromptu entertainment to make the party livelier.

Other Great Options

13. cruise the waters in a river boat (yakatabune).

While sure, you could always go on a boat ride around Tokyo during the day, Yakatabune only cruise the water at night. These river boats have a rich history. In the early days of Japan, specifically the Heian Period, aristocrats would ride Yakatabune to attend parties where they’d watch the moon. That’s why Yakatabune are known to travel at night.

You’ll be plenty comfy in one of these boats. Tatami floors and appealing interiors decorate the vessel, and some fancier ones even do dinner cruises. There’s also Nomihoudai offered, which is all-you-can-drink booze. Maybe don’t do this if you’re the type who gets seasick.

If you ride in a Yakatabune, it’ll typically be to Tokyo Bay and back.

14. Try a New Reality at a VR Park

Virtual reality is all the rage these days, and that’s true in Japan as well. Tokyo is home to the VR Park at the Adores Arcade. If you’re by the Shibuya Station, you only have to walk about seven minutes to get there, which isn’t bad.

Like the VR entertainment you’d find in America, at VR Park, you strap on a headset and partake in a variety of different games, puzzles, and digital adventures. These are all themed. In Circle of Saviors, you might hold items to make the game feel more realistic. That’s certainly true in Jungle Bungee VR, where you strap on bungeeing gear even though your feet never truly leave the ground.

The VR Park is open until nearly midnight every evening. If you’re tired but still want to enjoy some entertainment around Tokyo, this is a fun way to spend a night in the city.

15. Sing Your Heart out at a Karaoke Bar

With house parties sparse and Rock Band or Guitar Hero not always handy, the main way Japanese residents will sing is at karaoke bars. These are not the average karaoke bar you’re used to back home. Instead, there may be karaoke rooms in the hundreds depending on where you go.

You rent a room for several hours and then sing with your buddies. To get rid of those performance jitters, it’s not uncommon for karaoke bars to offer Nomihoudai. You might want to refrain since a night of karaoke in Japan is often quite pricy before you factor in the cost of alcohol.

Where can you find karaoke bars? The better question is where can’t you find them. Try Osaka’s Dotonbori or head to Shinjuku to track down plenty of places to showcase your voice.

16. Watch Live Soccer, Sumo, Baseball, or Wrestling

Another way you can spend your nights in Tokyo is by seeing some live sporting events. In Japan, soccer is soccer, not football. However, it will often be referred to as football, just like in other parts of the world. There are men’s and women’s teams, including the V-Varen Nagasaki, FC Tokyo, Shimizu S-Pulse, Urawa Red Diamonds, Nagoya Grampus, Gamba Osaka, Yokohama F. Marinos, Shonan Bellmare, and Kashima Antlers.

While the national sport of Japan is sumo wrestling , the events are limited. In Tokyo, the tournaments take place in September, May, and January. You can get balcony seats, box seats for four (don’t wear your shoes!), and ringside seats if you’re eager to be as close to all the action as possible.

For another type of wrestling, there’s pro wrestling or puroresu . New Japan Pro Wrestling is the best-known organization, and it includes stars like Hiroshi Tanahashi, Minoru Suzuki, Kazuchika Okada, and plenty more. There are shows throughout the year, including the organization’s major event, Wrestle Kingdom, every January 4 th .

If you prefer a more American pastime, then go see a baseball game in Tokyo. Since 1872, Japan has embraced this sport. It’s not exactly like what you’re used to back home. For instance, the playing field, strike zone, and the baseballs themselves are not as big as those in America. Some well-known Japanese baseball teams are the Chiba Lotte Marines, Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, Tokyo Yakult Swallows, Chunichi Dragons, and Hanshin Tigers.

The Kashima Soccer Stadium is home of the Kashima Antlers, but you can see sports of all kinds there and at the Nagoya Dome, Niigata Stadium, Sapporo Dome, Tokyo Dome, and many more.

17. Sign up for a Beauty of Japan Tour

Don’t be fooled by the name; during a Beauty of Japan tour, you’re going to be doing a lot more than sightseeing. This is a Tokyo staple that’s meant for passionate food lovers who want to try an experience that’s a little something different. Namely, the entire tour includes real sumo wrestlers acting as your guides.

I’m not saying you have to eat like a sumo, but getting to know a wrestler and seeing what they consume to bulk up and challenge opponents if quite a unique experience to say the least. Plus, these are locals who know the city like the back of their hands and can show you the best places to eat, not necessarily the most popular ones.

It’s not cheap to go on a Beauty of Japan tour. If you have a group of four or over, expect to pay about $130USD. If it’s three people, it’s $173USD, and if it’s just two, you might fork over $260USD. To participate, you’ll want to head to the west exit of the JR Ryogoku station. The tour lasts about two and a half hours.

18. Rev up Your Engines at MariCAR

If you’ve ever wished you could live out your Mario Kart fantasies in real life, it turns out you can, and in none other than Tokyo. MariCAR is an Akihabara service that lets you get behind the wheel of a go-kart and see the city in a brand-new manner.

Did I mention you get to dress up? Okay, more like you have to dress up. When you reserve your go-kart through MariCAR, you get a costume with the keys. These costumes are just like your favorite Mario Kart characters as well as some other recognizable favorites like Spider-Man, Superman, and even Hello Kitty.

To get to MariCAR and spend a fun evening driving, exit at Keikyu Kita-Shinagawa Station and walk for about three minutes. You’ll find it. Before you get too excited, do know that you must possess a driver’s license from Japan to drive the karts. Otherwise, you can ride in a convertible or a Thailand Tuk-Tuk. Still fun!

19. Spend a Night (or Day!) of Fun at Cosmo World

Japan is known for its amusement parks, so make sure you get to see one (or several) during your time in Tokyo. For a park that looks amazing even once the sun is down, Cosmo World is a phenomenal choice.

The main attraction is the ginormous Ferris wheel, which is available to ride at night. In fact, I’d go as far to say that it’s better to do so in the cloak of darkness since you can take in the amazing lights that surround the ride. You’ll also get a wondrous view of Yokohama and its shining skyline.

Not so much into Ferris wheels? Maybe you just want something else to ride. Don’t worry; Cosmo World has it in spades. You’ll be able to enjoy river rapid rides, roller coasters, and even kiddy rides. There’s something for everyone here!

20. Don’t Miss the Sky Circus Sunshine, As It’s Not Just Another Observation Deck

In the last section, I recommended the Skytree , as there’s no other taller observation deck around. That doesn’t mean you should skip over other observation decks, especially if they’re Sky Circus Sunshine . This is anything but a pretty view of a skyline.

Okay, so what is the Sky Circus Sunshine? That’s a great question. It’s like a mini arcade hidden in an observation center, specifically the Sunshine Observatory. With games, VR entertainment, food, a sports bar and café, live entertainment, and of course the lovely views outside, you’ll be able to spend an entire evening here for certain.

21. Play More at Joypolis Sega

If you need more games during a night in Tokyo, make it a point to get over to Joypolis Sega . This is both a theme park and a huge arcade, so you might want to come back more than one night. It’s convenient to get to Joypolis Sega, too, as you only need to exit the Odaiba-kaihinkoen Station and then walk about seven minutes on foot.

Plan for an early evening, as the place closes by 10 p.m. each night and people usually spend around three hours there. While you’re there, you can take in the breadth of entertainment, which includes race car driving (yes, in a race car, no VR here!), fortune reading, a spiraling rollercoaster that’s indoors, and 4D movies. You’ll also find the standard arcade fare, including VR games, claw machines, and as many prizes as you could ever hope to win.

Did we mention there’s food and drinks to have, too? There’s so much entertainment to take in at Joypolis Sega that there are three whole floors of fun and games. Like many parts of Tokyo, there’s no place like it.

Tokyo is one of the safest cities in Japan, and that goes for at night, too. There’s no reason to sit in your hotel and get an early night once the sun sets. Outside, the nightlife beckons. Whether your idea of nightlife is a bar, an arcade, or seeing shrines and flowers, you can find it in Tokyo. Check out this article if you want to read about what you should watch out for at night in Tokyo.

I hope this comprehensive guide gives you some great ideas for where to spend your evenings during your next Tokyo visit!

Why not pin it for later? You can also follow the The Tokyo Tourist on Pinterest. 🙂

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Japan’s buzzy capital, Tokyo, is exciting at any time of the day, but this thriving metropolis comes alive after dark. Packed with history, culture, adventure, and entertainment, Tokyo’s nightlife is an intoxicating mix. The atmosphere sizzles and crackles with electricity. Tokyo is fast, furious and filled with the sheer energy of 13 million human beings living, breathing and thinking in 2187 square kilometres of space. It’s incredible to think that today’s restless metropolis began life as a humble fishing village called Edo (‘Mouth of the Estuary’) in 1457 when lord Ota Dokan built his castle on a bluff overlooking the river.

Tokyo’s nightlife and entertainment options run the full gamut, from grand Kabuki theatres to broom-cupboard bars and live music venues. Most of the action can be found around the city’s lively places such as Ginza, Shibuya or Shinjuku. On the cultural side, all of Japan’s major performing arts can be sampled in Tokyo, from stately No (the oldest in its theatrical repertoire) to Buto (the country’s unique contribution to contemporary dance). However, the one not to be missed is Kabuki with its larger-than-life heroes, flamboyant costumes and dramatic finales. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your time in the city after dark? Here are some exciting best things to do in Tokyo at night.

Tours and Tickets

1- start at tokyo metropolitan building observatory, 2- walk down memory lane, 3- dine in a ninja restaurant, 4- see a samurai show, 5- go bar hopping at golden gai, 6- sing all night in karaoke bar, 7- go shopping at don quijote, 8- go shopping in harajuku, 9- see neon lights around shibuya, 10- try the all-you-can-drink sake, 11- walk over the rainbow bridge, 12- cruise tokyo bay on a yakatabune harumiya, 13- climb tokyo tower, 14- experience the thrills of tokyo joypolis, 15- enjoy an immersive experience at teamlab borderless, 16- relax at odeo-onsen monogatari, 17- drive through tokyo in a street go-kart, 18- visit senso-ji temple, 19- enjoy a nighttime local food tour in asakusa, 20- spend a night in the capsule hotel, 21- fly over tokyo in a helicopter, 22- explore pop culture in akihabara, 23- shop for electronics in akihabara, 23- explore the happiest place on earth, happo-en garden, chinsanzo garden, 25- visit the tokyo railway station, tokyo at night.

Order your Japan Rail Pass here – do not leave home without it (you can only purchase it from outside Japan).

An impressive landmark in Shinjuku, Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observatory is a great place to start a night out in the city.

It is a 243 m-tall building with two towers, each having an observatory at the height of 202 m.

Though there are many observation platforms in Tokyo, this building offers breathtaking views of the city skyline for free.

One of the observation decks remains open till 11 pm, and you can see the skyscrapers and highways lit up at night.

It is an excellent spot to hang around in the darkness if you plan to visit other places in Shinjuku.

Tokyo Metropolitan Building is at 2-chōme-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo.

Head to Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho), or Piss Alley (Nonbei Yokocho), for a late-night drink or food and a warm reception.

Memory Lane is a narrow side street where you’ll feel like stepping back into the Showa period.

Piss Alley is on the western side of Shinjuku Station and is a vibrant hub after dark between 5 pm to midnight.

It has an assortment of tiny bars and eateries that serve yakitori, soba noodles, nikomi (a type of udon noodle) and other weird food like pig testicles, frog sashimi, and grilled salamander.

Moreover, Japanese beer, sake, and highballs are available at affordable rates.

With red lanterns lit everywhere and smoke coming from the grills, it is an atmospheric place to wander at night.

Omoide Yokocho is at 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City. You may like to join this tour.

One of the unique night experiences in Tokyo is dining in a Ninja-themed restaurant, Ninja Akasaka or Ninja Shinjuku.

Located a short distance from Asakusa Station, Ninja Akasaka replicates the ninja hideout offering artfully presented Japanese food, together with impressive magic tricks.

A ninja waiter greets you at the entrance and escorts you to your seat.

While waiting for the food, the ninja waiters perform a range of impressive magic tricks to entertain the diners.

Ninja Shinjuku is at 160-0023 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Nishishinjuku, 1 Chome−11−11, Kono Building. Ninja Akasaka is at 1F, 2-14-3 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-Ku, Tokyo, 100-0014.

A trip to Tokyo is incomplete without experiencing a bar hop, Tokyo style.

Golden Gai, Shinjuku’s hole-in-the-wall, is the most famous nightlife spot in the city and a must-visit place on any visitor’s Tokyo bucket list.

Over 280 tiny bars are packed into the maze of narrow streets, making it an atmospheric place to spend the night barhopping and there are local tours that will take you to hidden bars .

Most of these bars are so tiny that they can only accommodate a handful of customers, which adds to the atmosphere, and narrow laneways connect the streets.

Some bars here only serve local customers, but many welcome foreign guests with signs and menus posted outside the bar in English.

These narrow alleys are hopping with activity after 9 pm and serve all kinds of drinks until the wee hours.

Golden Gai is at 1 Chome-1-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo.

Like all other Japanese cities, many of the karaoke bars in Tokyo are open 24 hours, so head to one and sing your heart out.

Karaoke is a favourite activity among many Japanese locals, some of who prefer singing karaoke with friends instead of partying all night at a club.

Karaoke booths equipped with a TV, speaker system, microphones, and a songbook, are rented by the hour.

Settle in for the evening and order food and drinks to make the experience more enjoyable.

Some of the city’s best karaoke bars are in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Roppongi.

Visiting Japan? Read these:

For more about Japan, read:

• 20 Incredible Landmarks in Japan
• 20 Best Beaches In Japan
• 25 Landmarks In Tokyo
• A Guide To Winter In Japan
• 50 Things To Do In Japan
• Japan Itinerary (10 days)
• Where To Stay In Tokyo
• Osaka Itinerary
• Nagoya Itinerary
• Where To Stay In Nagoya
• 12 Things To Do in Takayama
• How To Use The Toilets In Japan
• 20 Things To Do In Osaka At Night
• Where To Stay In Osaka
• 20 Things To Do In Hiroshima
• Where To Stay In Hiroshima
• 20 Things To Do In Yokohama
• 15 Things Japan Is Famous For
• 20 Things To Do In Kamakura
• 20 Things To Do In Nagano
• 20 Day Trips From Tokyo
• 3 Day Trips From Osaka
• The Most Beautiful Japan Tourist Spots
• Hakuba Hotels
• Hakuba Ski Resort
• Japanese Onsen Tips
• Where To Stay In Kyoto Like A Local
• Arashiyama Monkey Park
• Eating and Drinking Matcha
• Amanemu Review
• 20 Japanese Drinks
• 20 Things To Do In Kyoto At Night
• 20 Japanese Cities
• 20 Things To Do In Fukuoka
• Where To Stay In Fukuoka
• 20 Things To Do In Nara
• 20 Things To Do In Hakone
• 20 Things To Do In Sapporo
• Where To Stay In Sapporo
• 20 Things To Do In Kanazawa
• 20 Things To Do In Okinawa
• 20 Things To Do In Sendai
• 20 Things To Do In Saitama

If you’re having trouble choosing a souvenir for friends or family, pop into a Donki store, where there are various items for sale.

Don Don Donki, or Don Quijote, is the biggest discount store in Japan, offering virtually everything anybody could ask for.

From Japanese sweets and snacks to gadgets, cosmetics, household goods, and traditional souvenirs, one can find everything cheaper than in other stores.

Don Quijote stores are available in Tokyo at many locations, including Ginza, Shinjuku, Akihabara, Roppongi, and Shibuya.

Mega Donki is its bigger branches open round the clock and perfect for late-night shopping.

Head to Harajuku’s boutiques and malls to shop for trendy fashion.

Takeshita Street is the place for teenage fashion, while Omotesando and Meiji Streets are where you’ll find major shopping malls like PARCO and Tokyu Plaza.

It’s also worth taking a Harajuku pop and fashion culture tour to help you understand some weird sights.

PARCO is at 15-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya City.

See all the flashy neon lights of one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections, Shibuya Crossing. The crossing is the busiest in the world and is chaos when the lights turn green.

It’s a famous spot to see neon lights as it is known for its super-busy streets, catchy advertisements, classy boutiques, and teeming shopping malls.

While you can also visit this area during the day, the Shibuya crossing is the most dramatic at night when it’s neon-lit from the screens and billboards on the nearby buildings.

Take a selfie as you scramble across the Shibuya Crossing along with hundreds of thousands of people.

When thousands of people gather dressed in costumes, Halloween is a fun time to visit.

Another reason to visit Shibuya is it’s both one of the trendy places to visit in Tokyo and home to contemporary culture in Japan.

Here, you can eat good food and relax with a drink while people-watching.

Shibuya Crossing is at Shibuya City, Tokyo. You may like this tour.

Sake connoisseurs will hit the jackpot at Kurand Sake Market, where a six-hour journey through the world of sake takes place every night.

This activity is highly popular with locals and a fun way for visitors to meet Tokyoites.

It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing night with over 100 kinds of sake to taste, but food isn’t included, so you might want to pack a snack.

Kurand Sake Market is open until 11 pm on weekdays at Matsumoto Bldg. 3F 2-9-20 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.

Another exciting thing to do in Tokyo at night is to walk over the Rainbow Bridge as the night lights twinkle, turning the city into a fairyland.

The massive suspension bridge connects Tokyo to the artificial islet of Odaiba.

The panoramic views of the Odaiba waterfront and dazzling solar-powered illumination have made the Rainbow Bridge a significant tourist attraction in its right at night.

This double-decker bridge features an expressway and walkway run on one level where pedestrians can take a nice walk while witnessing the best views of Tokyo for free.

In summer, a flotilla of yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboats with lanterns) floats on Tokyo Bay, adding a lovely seasonal backdrop to the night view.

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Take in the beautiful views of Tokyo from the water by booking a cruise on a yakatabune (barge).

Operating during the warm season, these cruising restaurants travel beneath the iconic Rainbow Bridge and up the Sumida River, all while the passengers feast on the kaiseki dinner, with beer and sake also included.

Some cruises also feature lion dancing or Edo-style performances and wonderful views of Tokyo’s skyline at night.

Tokyo is truly magical at night, and the best way to get a glimpse of this magic is to visit the Tokyo Tower at night.

From the 250-m high vantage point at Tokyo Tower, the city sprawls endlessly in every direction spreading as far as the eye can see.

Distant skyscrapers lean into the sky, and modern highways crisscross in a web of confusion.

The tower is Japan’s version of the Eiffel Tower and dominates the city skyline at 333m high, even taller than the latter.

Walking towards this structure is part of the attraction, to see the tower illuminated every night with designs that suit the season or special events.

More than three million people visit this iconic tower annually to gaze at the city from its observation decks, one at 150 m and the other at 250 m.

Whether you stare at it from a distance or admire the cityscape from its viewing platform, all experiences are equally enjoyable at night in Tokyo.

Tokyo Tower is at 4-chōme-2-8 Shibakōen, Minato City, Tokyo. Skip the line and reserve your Tokyo tower ticket here .

Anybody wanting to play games and have fun late at night should head to Tokyo Joypolis.

Located in the Odaiba area of Tokyo, it’s one of the country’s biggest indoor theme parks offering fun and entertainment day and night.

Tokyo Joypolis is a SEGA-themed amusement centre ideal for thrill-seekers and video game fanatics.

It has three floors of games, amusement rides, VR experiences, 4D movies, simulators, arcade games, race car driving, and roller coasters.

Drinks and food are also available for the visitors.

Tokyo Joypolis is at 1-6-1 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo. 

Visiting TeamLab Borderless is one of the unique things to do in Tokyo at night that doesn’t involve alcohol.

It’s a digital art museum that uses hundreds of computers and projectors to create otherworldly experiences using sounds, lights, and graphics.

The most popular installation here is the Crystal World – a room full of mirrors and vibrant LEDs.

The other popular space is the Forest of Resonating Lamps, where people can marvel at the lanterns that change colours.

The museum remains open till 9 pm on weekends and holidays and later during the busiest times of the year.

TeamLab Borderless is at Odaiba Palette Town 2F, 1-3-8 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo. Skip the line and book your entry ticket here .

Located on Tokyo’s Odaiba island, Odeo-Onsen Monogatari is an Edo-themed hot-spring park offering a traditional-meets-modern Onsen experience.

It’s a relaxing oasis with extensive baths, entertainment, and dining options.

Visitors can take a Japanese bath and walk around the food court, enjoy spa treatments, and stay in the tatami rooms overnight.

The park remains open almost 24 hours a day, only closes between 9 am and 11 am for cleaning.

Odeo-Onsen Monogatari is at 2 Chome-6-3 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo.

Of all the ways to see the lights of Tokyo at night, the most exciting way is to tour in a Street Kart.

Unlike other cities where people can get rental bikes, Tokyo offers custom-built go-karts to drive around the city’s streets till 9 pm.

It’s a two-hour tour that involves driving through the popular areas of Shibuya, Harajuku, Roppongi, Akihabara and around Tokyo Tower.

To add to the fun, rent a costume and dress up as your favourite superhero.

Street Kart is at 2 Chome-10 Shinkiba, Koto City.

Senso-ji, or Asakusa Kannon Temple, is the most visited and oldest religious site in Tokyo that sees almost 30 million annual visitors.

Those who dislike sharing space with crowds of tourists should visit this site late at night.

After dark, it is an entirely different place where the walking experience is calm and meditative.

The grounds remain open throughout the night, and the structures look equally impressive, with the surrounding shrine’s pagoda lit up beautifully like a beacon.

It’s a popular place for photographers to go to capture night shots.

Senso-ji Temple is at 2-chōme-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo. This guided tour will take you to Senso-ji Temple.

During the day, Asakusa is a must-visit area in Tokyo, but locals prefer to visit this place at night to eat their favourite food.

Join a walking tour of this traditional town to soak up the local atmosphere, taste different kinds of sake and experience the Izakayas to enjoy traditional Japanese food with the locals.

Regularly, a four- to five-hour food tour takes place here, which involves walking around this traditional town, tasting different kinds of sake and beer, and visiting the Izakayas to enjoy traditional Japanese food with the locals, which include sukiyaki, dojo, sushi, dango, nikuman, and monja yaki.

Look out for Japanese savoury pancakes (Okonomiyaki or Monja yaki), which are a hit with locals and visitors.

The capsule hotel is one of the best among the many eccentric Japanese innovations.

Capsule hotels in Tokyo provide private budget-friendly accommodation in pods stacked like a spaceship.

The pod-like rooms are tiny, with only space to slide horizontally and roll around. Some people describe the experience of being in a morgue.

Basic facilities include a power outlet, light, AC and an alarm clock.

Check out the capsule hotels around Taito, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

If you’re looking to stay in an Airbnb in Tokyo , you’ll find a few around Shibuya and Shinjuku, which are also crammed with gay bars and gay-friendly hotels . 

Explore the beautiful city of Tokyo from a different perspective on a private helicopter tour.

It is a short ride that takes the passengers to the skies over the city and offers a breathtaking aerial view of Odaiba, the Rainbow Bridge, and many other iconic districts and landmarks at night.

Flying over the skyscrapers and seeing neon lights flashing across the city is an incredible experience.

Anime and manga lovers should head to Akihabara for an immersive experience.

A range of manga and gaming centres line the streets of Akihabara, where shoppers can find everything they want to complete their collection – magazines, comics, DVDs, figurines, playing cards, and so many knick-knacks.

It is also a great place to try on cosplay costumes, take pictures, and visit a local maid café.

Most anime and manga shops are to the north of Akihabara Station. A great way to visit is to join a anime gaming adventure tour .

Akihabara has several city blocks of Tokyo’s most significant stores selling electronic goods and gadgets alfresco-style along the pavement.

It can be bewildering with the big stores split into several outlets, each one a mega store of its own, with up to seven floors apiece selling everything from pocket calculators to electronic pets and plasma TVs.

Akihabara is the place to go if you’re keen on Japanese Otaku culture and electronic products.

Otaku culture encompasses electronics, gaming and anime but even if you aren’t, walking the streets of Akihabara is entertainment itself.

The area is also home to the strange phenomenon of Maid Cafes, where waitresses dress up in cutesy maid uniforms.

Celebrate your inner child at one of the famous places in Tokyo – Tokyo Disneyland.

It is a vast theme park based on Disney movies and houses many Disney and non-Disney parks, attractions, and shopping areas.

When the sky darkens at night and the colourful lights come on, Disneyland becomes magical.

The evening parades are mind-blowing, and the impressive projections on the castle and fireworks also happen at night.

The ultimate attraction is the Tokyo Disney Sea, where you can experience sailing the seven seas from the Mediterranean to the Americas.

Tokyo Disneyland is at 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan. Skip the line and book your tickets here .

24- Visit A Garden

It might surprise some that Tokyo contains many beautiful gardens once part of the estates of wealthy daimyo (lords).

Japanese gardens are ancient mystical places shaped by a harmonious blend of Buddhist, Taoist and Shinto traditions.

Some of these gardens are hidden on the grounds of the city’s prestigious hotels and restaurants.

Others are secluded behind the walls of temples, shrines and former estates.

The natural forms of their rocks, plants, trees, and ponds create a peaceful haven for spiritual meditation and quiet contemplation, and their gentle beauty is a soothing refuge from the hectic pace of the city.

Two such gardens are Happo-en (beautiful garden from any angle) and Cinzano (House of Camelia).

An adviser to the shogunate, Hikozaemon Okubo, lived at Happo-en gardens during the early seventeenth century.

Take a turn through its twisting pathways and pass 200-year-old bonsai trees and a central pond full of plump golden Koi.

Nestled amidst the trees is the delightful teahouse, where visitors can partake in a traditional tea ceremony and learn that the art of drinking tea is as important as the art of brewing it.

The Chinzanso garden uses the undulating topography of the grounds of Hotel Chinzanso in Tokyo.

Stroll along the winding path to encounter various historical relics such as the 16th century Stone statues of Rakan carved in the images of Buddha’s priests, the serene Shiratama Inari shrine and a three-story pagoda built 1000 years ago without the use of a single nail.

There is one exceptional garden on the grounds of the Imperial Palace.

Many of Tokyo’s gardens are a fairyland of twinkling lights at night time, often up to 9 pm.

Happo-en Garden is at 1 Chome-1-1 Shirokanedai, Minato City, Tokyo (open until 8.30 pm). Chinzanso Garden is at 2 Chome-10 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo City, Tokyo. Find out more about touring Tokyo’s gardens .

The 100-year-old Marunouchi side of the station is restored to its pre-war condition.

The station is split into Marunouchi and Yaesu sides and was built in 1914 by architect Tatsuno Kingo.

The station was badly firebombed during WWII during the B-29 firebombing on May 25, 1945, shattering its impressive rooftop domes.

There’s a ‘Traveller’s Help Office’ under the main dome staffed by helpful English-speaking experts who provide information on how to travel around Tokyo.

Order your Japan Rail Pass here

Do not leave home without it (you can only purchase it from outside Japan). 

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• Steve Csorgo

With over 35 million residents, it’s only natural that the Greater Tokyo Area has plenty to do both day and night. With a profusion of late-night shops, bars, restaurants, activities, and sightseeing spots, expeditions in Tokyo don’t have to stop once the sun disappears. In fact, the darkness brings out a new side to the city, entertaining the sleepless with both typical night-time fun like clubbing and drinking alongside unexpected activities like sports, spas, and shrine hopping. Best of all, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world, Tokyo remains safe for all deep into the night. To help get your after-dark itinerary kick-started, we’ve picked out 15 of the best things to do in Tokyo at night. Night-owls, read on!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

*Due to COVID-19, some facilities have shortened their opening hours. Check official websites for the latest information.

Get Tokyo Views

No Tokyo trip is complete without a panorama of the city’s endless urban sprawl. Fortunately, there are loads of observation decks open until late, allowing plenty of views no matter how crammed the itinerary. One of the most popular is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building , which opens until 11:00 pm (North Observatory) with free admission. While you won’t be able to spot as many landmarks as during the day, the infinite ocean of twinkling lights will take your breath away.

Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, opens until 9:00 pm, with admission until 8:00 pm, so you can still catch some night panoramas from here too. Tokyo Skytree itself can be viewed from the neighboring Solamachi Dining SKYTREE VIEW , open until 11:00 pm. Tokyo Tower , another unmissable icon, opens until 11:00 pm on the “Main Deck” and 10:45 pm on the “Top Deck.” For super late-night views of Tokyo Station, “marunouchi HOUSE” in the Shin-Marunouchi Building is open until a staggering 4:00 am! There are also the following:

• Tokyo City View in the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, open until 1:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Sky Lounge in the Yebisu Garden Place Tower, open until 11:00 pm.
• SKY CIRCUS Sunshine 60 Observation Deck, open until 10:00 pm.
• Observation Terrace in the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, open until 10:00 pm.
• Toranomon Hills Mori Tower, open until 1:00 am.
• Odaiba Seaside Park, open 24 hrs.

Scratch That Shopping Itch

Alongside the ever-present convenience store, there are several shops open late in Tokyo, adding breathing room to your souvenir scheduling. One of the most famous is Don Quijote , a discount store stocking virtually everything one can imagine, from snacks and drinks to kitchenware and even luxury brands. Outlets like the MEGA Don Quijote in Shibuya and the whopping six Don Quijotes in Shinjuku are open 24 hrs, making them great places to see the latest trends and snap up some bargains without the daytime crowds…or just gawk at the weird stuff! There are also 24 hr Don Quijote in Roppongi, Akihabara, Asakusa, Ikebukuro, and more.

Pro Tip: Before heading out on a Tokyo shopping spree, be sure to save the Don Quijote discount coupon below for a better deal!

Go Bar Hopping

Naturally, the ocean of bars in Tokyo don’t get going until late, giving those looking to drink and mingle plenty of opportunity. Many are set in narrow “yokocho” alleyways, often unseen from the main streets. These hole-in-the-wall joints usually only seat a few, flaunting retro Showa era (1926–1989) vibes and an authentic, homely character.

Two of the most popular bar hopping streets in Tokyo are the tourist-friendly Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku, which are great places for meeting fellow travelers, although some spots are for regulars only. For local vibes, check out the rustic Hobo Shinjuku Norengai in Shinjuku, the eccentric Ebisu Yokocho in Ebisu, the downtown Hoppy Street in Asakusa, the warm Harmonica Yokocho in Kichijoji, and the sprawling Noge in Yokohama. Most stations in Tokyo also have several bars surrounding them, so step inside and see what gems you uncover! Also, don’t forget to make a plan to get back to your accommodation after - trains in Tokyo are complex and services stop around midnight.

Get Your Club On

Clubbing is the most obvious way to enjoy a late night in any city, and Tokyo is no exception. There are dozens of clubs spread all over, with the biggest and brightest concentrations in Shibuya, Roppongi, and Ginza. Unlike most bars, clubs generally stay open well into the next morning and run on weekdays, making them a haven for party animal travelers. Some of the most popular are WARP in Shinjuku, SEL OCTAGON TOKYO, V2 TOKYO, and VILLA TOKYO in Roppongi, VISION, WOMB, CAMELOT, and ATOM TOKYO in Shibuya, Raise in Ginza, and Oak Tokyo in Azabujuban. Each boasts its own character and music style, attracting a different crowd - do some research in advance to find one that suits you. As mentioned, public transport in Tokyo winds down early, so if you’re planning to club, then booking accommodation within walking distance of a clubbing district is the best solution.

Sing at Karaoke

Outside bar hopping, karaoke is the definitive nocturnal pastime of the Japanese. Simply find a karaoke joint (you shouldn’t have any trouble with this, particularly around stations), pay for a room, and sing your favorite tunes until time’s up. Karaoke is most popular on Friday and Saturday nights, so expect to pay more and perhaps even wait for a room to open up. However, if you have a free weekday night, then prices will be cheaper and time limits more generous. While karaoke is generally done in groups, it’s perfectly acceptable to book a room for yourself too!

Practice Baseball Batting

Many of Tokyo’s night-owls frequent late-night batting centers for a calorie-burning workout and satisfying stress-reliever. Batting centers are common throughout Japan, allowing a place to practice your swing and let off steam without visiting a park or stadium. Balls will be automatically shot, with some of the more advanced systems allowing complete control over pitching style, speed, and more.

The go-to spot for insomniac baseballers is Shinjuku Batting Center, just a 10 min walk from Shinjuku Station. It’s open until 4:00 am, and costs 3,000 yen for 12 rounds. There is also the Asakusa Batting Stadium just a brief walk from Asakusa Station, which is open until 1:00 am. This latter establishment is quite advanced, and offers single games for just 400 yen if you don’t wish to stay long. You can also hone your pitching skills through several fun throwing games with prizes.

Better Your Bowling

If you’re still raring to go, then one of Tokyo’s late-night bowling alleys should be your next stop. Shinjuku Copabowl, just a 5 min walk from Shinjuku Station, is open until 6:30 am on weekdays and even longer on Fridays and weekends. The venue has a surreal, futuristic vibe with lively music and black-light flooring. There’s also table tennis, darts, alcoholic drinks, and food, making it a great base for the entire night. Others include Sasazuka Bowl in Shibuya and Heiwajima Star Bowl in Heiwajima, which both open until 5:00 am, along with the 24 hr Hyper Lane in Ikebukuro. There is also the iconic Round One, which is open 24 hrs with locations all throughout Tokyo. Bowling in Japan is generally on the cheap side, costing between 500-800 yen per game.

See a Magic Show

If simply drinking seems a tad dull, enchant your evening by visiting one of Tokyo’s magic bars. Many of these bars boast surreal, otherworldly vibes, with talented bartenders entertaining with jaw-dropping tricks or professional magicians performing in spectacular shows. One such establishment is Tejinaya Magic Bar in Kabukicho, which hosts an extravagant lineup of magicians open until 4:00 am. There’s also TOTO's Bar in Ginza until 3:00 am (weekdays), Magic Bar Surprise in Akasaka until 1:00 am (weekdays), and the casual Magic Shima in Ueno open until 2:00 am. While the bars open late, shows start at different intervals, so look up the schedule in advance to better time your visit.

Soak in a Spa

Traveling takes its toll, and there’s no better place to wash away fatigue than a spa. Thankfully, Tokyo is dotted by numerous luxury and well-priced spa facilities open late into the night. These spacious shared baths are often complemented by saunas, lounges, massage services, and even casual dining for maximum relaxation. They’re great places to warm up and wind down, especially during the frigid winter months. Some are even 24 hr, so you don’t have to concern yourself with time. Renowned late-night Tokyo spas include Raku Spa in Kanda (until 8:00 am), LaQua in Korakuen (until 9:00 am), Asakusa ROX Matsuri-Yu in Asakusa (until 9:00 am, except Sundays) and the 24 hr Thermae-Yu next to Shinjuku Golden Gai. They also come with handy amenities like towels, indoor clothes, and shampoo, with free wi-fi and a place to charge up the phone. Keep in mind that some are men/women only.

Walk the Rainbow Bridge

The iconic Rainbow Bridge connects Shibaura Pier and Odaiba in the north of Tokyo Bay. The 798 m suspension bridge is most known for its colorful solar-powered lights, illuminating it from sundown to midnight. Viewing spots are plentiful, including up-close at Shibaura Minami Futo Park and Daiba Park, or the all-encompassing, sweeping view from Harumi Wharf Park. Along with cars and trains, there are also walkways on the bridge for pedestrians, crossable in roughly 25 mins. The walkways are open until 9 pm in summer and 6 pm in winter, but entry is closed 30 mins before, so don’t turn up on the dot. The scene from the bridge is equally impressive, with views of Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Harbor, and Roppongi on the north route, and Odaiba and Shinagawa on the south. The closest station to the Rainbow Bridge walkways is Shibaura-futo Station on the Yurikamome Line.

Revel in Stunning Garden Light Ups

Many gardens throughout Tokyo host after-dark illumination festivals, allowing their beauty to be rediscovered in a new hue. These are largely seasonal, often taking place to celebrate the cherry blossoms of spring and foliage of autumn. Some of the most riveting springtime light-ups include those at Tokyo Midtown, Meguro River, Rikugien Gardens, Chidorigafuchi Park, and Ueno Park, which run during the peak cherry blossom season of late March/early April. Popular fall festivals are held at Showa Kinen Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, Happo-en, Otaguro Park, and Mejiro Garden. Most of these events usually wrap up around 9:00 pm, so it’s best to make them the first stop on your Tokyo night-time itinerary. Outside these periods, gardens and parks are generally not lit-up in Tokyo, however, many are still open, so feel free to take a midnight stroll amongst the tranquil darkness.

Recharge With Late-Night Food

Pulling an all-nighter in Tokyo, you’ll inevitably start to feel a bit peckish. Luckily, Tokyo is packed with late-night food options catered towards midnight cravings, serving up delicious local dishes at affordable prices. Many specialize in ramen, seafood, and fried food like " yakitori ," which are the ultimate pick-me-ups for an active night out. Also tempting are the omnipresent “ donburi ” beef bowl joints, which sit upon virtually every corner of central Tokyo. Popular chains include Yoshinoya, Sukiya, and Matsuya, many of which are open late or 24 hrs and specialize in hearty, nourishing meals to help cure hangovers. If you don’t want to visit a restaurant, convenience store food is a worthy alternative, with affordable bento boxes available all night heated up on the spot by staff.

Relish After-Dark Coffee

If you don’t want to waste your precious time in Tokyo, then a stop-over at a late-night cafe is the perfect remedy for oncoming sleepiness. There are plenty of options offering a sanctuary of peace and caffeine amongst the midnight madness. Popular choices include Frames in Nakameguro, open until 4:00 am on weekends, Udagawa Cafe and Cafe Bohemia in Shibuya, both open until 5:00 am, Bowery Kitchen in Komazawa, open until 3:00 am, Bondi Cafe in Hiroo, open until 2:00 am, and the 24 hr Coffee Aristocrat Edinburgh in Shinjuku.  While once lacking in decent coffee, Tokyo has wholly embraced authentic cafe culture , with loads of trendy, jazzy spots to sip on an artisan espresso with a book while chatting to the locals.

Explore Shrines

While Buddhist temples are often shut by the late afternoon, most Shinto shrines welcome the public all night long, giving travelers time to see as many as they please. Popular shrines are often illuminated after sunset, such as Kanda Shrine in Chiyoda, Akagi Shrine and Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku, and Tomioka Hachiman Shrine in Tomioka.

Plus, some renowned Buddhist temples are also illuminated after dark, such as the world-famous Senso-ji in Asakusa, which radiates magnificently until 11:00 pm. Many of these Tokyo shrines and temples are extremely crowded during the daytime, making the night a better time to absorb their spirituality without distraction. Just keep in mind that some of the more popular shrines will close around sunset, such as Meiji Jingu, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Rest at a Manga Cafe

Once you’ve had enough drinking, dancing, bathing, playing, and sightseeing, it’s time to settle down. However, trains in Tokyo don’t start until 5:00 am, and even if you book a hotel, check in won’t open until around 3:00 pm! Your saviour in times like these is the humble “manga cafe,” which open 24 hrs and are fitted with private booths, refreshments, internet, showers, and enough manga to last a lifetime. Many also have computers, making them a great spot to work or surf the web. Best of all, they’re extremely cheap, with most offering stays of 3 hours or so for just over 1,000 yen.

While you’ll need to register yourself at the front desk, the process is mostly painless with some basic Japanese. Manga cafes are everywhere in Tokyo, with the largest concentrations around central train stations like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro. Some will even use them as their main form of accommodation, however, while booths are often big enough to lie down in, they are far from comfortable. For a proper bed late at night, opting for one of Tokyo’s infamous yet surprisingly comfortable love hotels is a better solution.

Tokyo Nightlife Unveiled

While there’s loads to do in the day, experiencing the full charm of Tokyo requires one or two all-nighters. From heart-racing activities like clubbing, drinking, karaoke, and sports, to blissful leisure like spa treatments, local dining, and catching up on the latest manga, Tokyo never stops being the world’s most fun city, no matter the time!

Top picture: Page Light Studios / Shutterstock.com

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The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Things to do in Tokyo at night

After dark, Tokyo becomes a whole new city. Here are the best things to do in Tokyo at night.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: August 21, 2023

The best things to do in Tokyo at night

Japan's metropolis is exciting at any time of day, but the city really comes alive after dark and exploring Tokyo's nightlife is an important part of visiting the city.

There are lots of things to do in Tokyo at night - more than just the obvious - which is why I've put together this list of where to go in Tokyo at night.

Tokyo City View at Mori Tower

• Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Asakusa view hotel, helicopter ride, japanese food tour, the robot restaurant, night canoeing, batting centres, shabu shabu, golden gai in shinjuku.

Tokyo can seem electrifying enough during the day, with its constant controlled chaos and endless entertainment.

But at night, Japan’s capital takes it to another level. It becomes a neon jungle where light and colour seem to fill every available space.

Tokyo is one of those places where residents treat the city as an extension of their homes. It’s just as common to eat at a restaurant as to cook in your own kitchen; amusement parlours provide entertainment after work; small traditional bars are full of friends catching up; cafes offer places to nap; and the streets are just generally busy with people acting busy.

For visitors to Tokyo, this is one of the things that makes the city so exciting. But it can also make it terrifyingly confusing.

Where do you start when there is just a panoramic roar of sensory overload?!

The good news is that you can probably start anywhere and have a great time. When it comes to nightlife in Tokyo, there’s something happening everywhere and it’s all pretty safe.

Walk out of your accommodation and you’ll find somewhere good to eat, somewhere to have a drink, and a neighbourhood to explore. Don’t worry if you don’t speak any Japanese – with a bit of pointing and smiling, everyone will speak the language of a good night out!

But it’s probably better to have a bit of a plan so you can make the most of your nights in Tokyo. Even after a busy day of sightseeing, it’s worth making an effort to see the city after dark.

To help you with this, I’ve put together a few tips on things to do in Tokyo at night. Some are popular activities that you may have already heard of. But I’ve also got some unusual suggestions that will show you a different side of Tokyo.

Let’s start with an overall picture of Tokyo – and the best way to get a view of the city is from up high. The metropolis is absolutely stunning at night when all the lights are shining.

A fantastic option for a view across the city is from the Tokyo City View at the top of Mori Tower in Roppongi.

There are two levels that you can see the city from. You can use the indoor observation deck on the 52 nd floor (that’s open until 23:00 on Sunday to Thursday and until 01:00 on Friday and Saturday nights). Or there’s the outdoor Sky Deck on the roof (that’s open until 22:00 every night).

Within the same part of the tower, there’s the Mori Art Museum that you might also be interested in having a look at. Also, Roppongi is a fun area to go out at night (more on that later) so a ride up the elevator of Mori Tower could fir conveniently with your other plans.

Tokyo Skytree®

Another popular viewpoint is the Tokyo Skytree® – which holds the very impressive titles of tallest structure in Japan, tallest tower in the world, and second tallest structure in the world (after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai).

The issues with the Tokyo Skytree ® viewpoints come from its impressiveness, though. Because of the tower’s popularity, the admission tickets are quite expensive and there can often be long lines. It is worth the wait, though, and you can buy a more expensive ticket to get faster access.

For those looking to save money, another good option for views is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building . The observation decks here have free admission and one of them us open until 23:00 (the other closes at 17:30).

It’s not as tall as either Mori Tower or Tokyo Skytree® but it’s still an amazing vista from the 45 th floor. And the building has a great location in Shinjuku which could also be convenient for other plans you may have.

Now, you’re going to have to eat at some point (and I’ll talk more about that soon) so perhaps you can combine an evening view with your dinner. There’s a very comfortable option that will give you a lovely setting with a lot of choice.

The Asakusa View Hotel has a buffet restaurant on the 26 th floor that has large windows looking out over the temples at Asakusa and over to the Tokyo Skytree®. The buffet has a good selection of Western and Asian dishes. It would be worth making a reservation if you’re interested.

And then there’s one final idea I want to suggest – a real WOW thing to do in Tokyo. And that’s take a helicopter ride over the city at night!

As you fly over the skyscrapers, and see the neon lights flashing and the headlights of the cars moving across the city, you’ll get a very special perspective that most people will never experience. It’s also really interesting to see how the city is laid out and how close to the water the downtown actually is!

It’s also more affordable than you might think. It’s about $200 a person for a 15 minute ride. You can book it at this website . (Although it’s all in Japanese, just send an email in English and they’ll get back to you.)

  View this post on Instagram   So this is one of those WOW moments! 😮 A helicopter ride over Tokyo at night. Seeing one of the world’s largest cities from above, all lit up, full of colour and energy!! What an incredible way to experience a different side of Tokyo nightlife!! #tokyonightlife #PR A post shared by Time Travel Turtle (@michaelturtle) on Oct 23, 2018 at 4:08am PDT

Cultural Activities

You may think that nights are for fun and days are for culture – but there are plenty of fun cultural things to do in Tokyo at night that will show a different side of the city.

A lot of visitors to Tokyo will head to Asakusa during the day. Asakusa was an entertainment district during the Edo period in the 17 th and 18 th centuries and it still has elements of this heritage today. But it’s most famous for the religious buildings here – particularly the beautiful Senso-ji temple.

But many parts of Asakusa, and the Senso-ji temple in particular, are lit up at night and offer a different experience once the crowds have left. There’s something really beautiful about the religious compound after dark when there’s a quiet spirituality and locals stop to pray on their way home.

You can walk around and have a look yourself or you might like to join this tour that will show you some off-the-beaten path locations in Asakusa .

I’m going to talk later about some suggestions for places to eat, but one way to discover Japan’s culinary scene is with a food tour. The reason I think taking one of these is such a great option is because you’ll also learn a lot about the city’s culture and about Japanese way of life.

As you spend a few hours with your guide, moving from restaurant to restaurant, you’ll hear stories about why Japanese nightlife is the way it is – including the izakayas (small bars) and how local dishes developed. Of course, you’ll also have an expert with you who’l be able to answer all sorts of questions you may have about Japan.

I would recommend having a look at a tour like this one .

And while we’re on the topic of local food, it would be remiss of me not to mention the Robot Restaurant . You may have heard of it already, because it’s a popular attraction for tourists visiting Japan. But you may not really know what to expect.

Firstly, the name ‘restaurant’ is a bit misleading because all you can really get are snacks and bento boxes. So don’t assume this will be your only meal for the night. And when it comes to the ‘robots’, there are certainly plenty of them. But a lot of the action actually comes from the human performers.

Think of the Robot Restaurant as a show, with lots of light, colour and action. It is a special Tokyo experience because this is where it’s located, but it’s not the most authentic thing you can do.

Tickets sell out so you should try to book ahead either online or in person when you’re in Shinjuku.

Sports and games

I always have such fun in the evenings in Tokyo. It’s pretty clear that, because the local people have stressful jobs during the day, they’ve created an environment to blow off steam at night. It means there are all sorts of games and sports that you enjoy – whereas in other cities you might find only restaurants and bars.

It might not be the first thing you think of in Tokyo, but you can actually go canoeing and kayaking right in the middle of the city. At night, the waterways that go through Tokyo are quite peaceful and it’s a serene experience to slowly paddle along, looking at the lights around you.

I went kayaking on the Kyunaka River, which took me under some magnificent bridges and ultimately to a spectacular view of the Tokyo Skytree®. It’s all done with a couple of local guides, who provide all the equipment, so it’s very easy to do.

If you’re interested you can book here .

As you wander through the busy parts of Tokyo, you’ll no doubt notice the enormous arcades full of video games. In many other parts of the world, they would be filled only with teenagers. In Japan, people of all ages will pass their time playing games in the arcades.

I would suggest you pop in and spend a few yen on a couple of games yourself. You’ll probably find some classics that you remember from your childhood if you look hard enough (Streetfighter II, anyone?) – but the new ones that are only in Japan are some of the best fun.

Have a dance, hit some drums, and unleash the child inside you! The biggest arcades are around Akihabara but you’ll find them throughout the whole city.

Another Japanese cliche that is worth trying while you’re in Tokyo is karaoke. The Japanese have moved away from karaoke bars, where you sing in front of strangers (although they still exist). What’s much more common are private rooms inside large karaoke compounds.

You’ll see signs for these in lots of parts of Tokyo – but particularly in the nightlife areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Roppongi. It will probably be written in Japanese (カラオケ) but the company names are often in English – look for chains like Big Echo, Joysound or Cote d’Azur.

The big ones in Tokyo have instructions in English so don’t be scared (and embrace the experience of communicating in a foreign country). It can be quite cheap from about $2/hour per person in off-peak up to $8/hour per person in peak time. Drinks are quite reasonably-priced and there are often all-you-can drink packages with are excellent value.

The most popular sport in Japan is baseball but it’s not an easy game to play in your backyard (if you’re even lucky enough to have one in Tokyo). And so the idea of the indoor batting cages was born.

Throughout Tokyo, there are a number of these indoor centre where a machine will pelt baseballs at you and you can whack them as hard as want. There are different speed options for the machines and there’s something satisfying about joining a bunch of Japanese guys (it’s mainly guys) practising their swing or working through their frustrations.

One of the easiest baseball batting centres to find is OSLO in Shinjuku . You get 60 balls for about ten dollars (and the more you want, the cheaper it becomes – up to 500 balls for 50 dollars).

  View this post on Instagram   It turns out I’m not that good at baseball. But who cares when it’s this much fun! In the heart of Tokyo’s nightlife district, Shinjuku, you can try to hit some home runs at this indoor batting cage. For ¥1000 (about $10) you get 60 balls! #tokyonightlife #PR A post shared by Time Travel Turtle (@michaelturtle) on Oct 22, 2018 at 4:22am PDT

I’m not sure if anyone has actually stopped to count them, but it’s said that there are about 100,000 places for food and drink in Tokyo. If you had asked me, I would have guessed even higher! Honestly, it seems like every street is just full of places to eat and drink.

For this reason, I’m not going to offer any specific recommendations for restaurants. There are thousands of excellent options. But if you’re looking for a fun Tokyo experience, here are a few types of places that will provide an authentic meal.

I’m going to mention it first because it’s my favourite – but you have to try a ramen restaurant while you’re in Tokyo. It’s delicious and quick so it’s perfect for a bit when you’ve got a busy night ahead of you or (as many Japanese do) for something to fill the stomach on your way home from drinking.

At most ramen restaurants , you’ll need to buy a ticket for your meal at a machine at the entrance and then present that to the chefs. I always think it adds a bit of fun to it all.

For a night out in Tokyo, one of the most authentic things you can do is go to an ‘izakaya’. This basically means a ‘traditional pub’ in Japanese and they come in all shapes and sizes. At its simplest, you’ll see the smoky izakayas that are full of people drinking draught beer and eating fried meat on sticks (yakitori). This meat is often things like chicken hearts and livers.

Izakayas can also be much more upmarket, with good quality food and local sake. You may sit crosslegged on a tatami mat around a low table, for instance.

What makes an izakaya different from many other Japanese restaurants is that the food is shared and it’s brought out gradually, plate by plate (a bit like tapas). Look out for an izakaya and give it a try.

If you’re in a group, another fun style of dining in Tokyo is shabu shabu. It’s similar to hotpot in China, and basically you cook meat and vegetables yourself in a big pot of boiling liquid that sits in the middle of the table. You’ll then have different sauces to dip the food in.

Although there’s a range of quality with shabu shabu restaurants, but makes it a lot of fun is getting a reasonably-priced package with all you can eat and drink for a set period of time. Perfect to put you in the mood for some karaoke!

And last, but not least, it’s time to talk about drinking. Although there is plenty to do at night in Tokyo that doesn’t involve alcohol, there is a vibrant bar scene that is a lot of fun and a good way to meet locals and other travellers.

If you’re heading out, take note of what time the public transport ends for the night. It’s always easy to get a taxi back to your accommodation.

One of the popular nightlife districts in Tokyo is Roppongi, where you’ll find the Tokyo City View at Mori Tower that I mentioned earlier. It’s full of bars and restaurants and can get very busy on the weekends.

A lot of Japanese people go out in Roppongi but it does have a reputation as the place where expats are more likely to head for a drink. That can be good news if you’re looking for some comfort from home (like a burger) or you want to find a bar that will be screening your favourite sport.

With the Rugby World Cup in 2019, I expect this to be a very popular area for international fans who want to either watch a game on the big screen or meet up for a drink after the match at somewhere like Legends Sports Bar .

Another of Tokyo’s famous drinking districts is around the train station at Shimbashi – but I think this one is quite special because it’s almost entirely full of locals.

This is where the ‘salarymen’ – the business workers of Tokyo – come after a day at the office to drink and eat and chat with their colleagues. You’ll find lots of izakayas here serving cheap beer and yakitori and it’s a lot of fun to join in the action and have a few conversations yourself.

I wouldn’t suggest spending the whole night here or coming too late. But it’s a good way to start your evening around the time that the local workers leave the office.

And, finally, I need to mention Golden Gai in Shinjuku because it has become one of the most talked-about nightlife areas in Japan for foreigners.

What makes Golden Gai so appealing is that it’s different to most other places in the world. It is a collection of half a dozen small narrow streets that are full of little bars. Most of them can only hold a handful of people and each has its own unique identity or theme.

It’s a great experience to be able to jump around and visit a few of these bars, chat with the barmen and meet the locals. It’s becoming quite popular with tourists so have a look for English signs at each entrance to see whether there is a cover charge or any other rules about who is welcome.

Of course, there are lots of other districts that are great for eating and drinking – areas like the Nonbei Yokocho in Shibuya or the Ebisu Yokocho, for instance.

If you haven’t been to Japan before, I would actually recommend going on one of the many ‘nightlife tours’ that are offered, where locals will take you to different types of bars and restaurants and introduce you to the way things work.

Not only will it be a fun evening, but it will help you make the most of your other nights in town when you don’t have a Japanese guide.

I would recommend one of the following:

I hope this guide to Tokyo’s nightlife has given you some ideas of what to do with your evenings in the city. As you can see, there is no shortage of activities. Whatever you do, you’ll have a great time. Just make the most of being in one of the most exciting cities in the world!!

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION AT TOKYO STATION

Tokyo is a huge city and there are lots of different areas you could stay. For tourists, I would recommend either around Tokyo station or Shinjuku.

If you’re looking for a backpacker option, you can get comfortable dorm beds at the great Wise Owl Hostel .

Tokyo is expensive but APA Hotel Ginza-Takaracho is a g ood price for a nice hotel near the station.

For a trendy modern hotel close to the station, I think you’ll like The Gate Hotel Tokyo by Hulic .

And for one of the best hotels in Tokyo, I would recommend The Peninsula .

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN TOKYO: SHINJUKU

Staying in Shinjuku puts you in one of the busiest parts of city, which is great for exploring during the day and at night.

For backpackers, you can get good dorms beds at the cool Imano Hostel .

An affordable hotel in central Shinjuku is IBIS Tokyo Shinjuku .

If you’re looking for a cool design hotel, then Bespoke Hotel Shinjuku is a great choice.

And for a luxury stay, you can’t go past the gorgeous Park Hyatt .

Time Travel Turtle was supported by Tokyo Metropolitan Government but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

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15 Great Things to Do In Tokyo At Night

By: Author Lora

Posted on Last updated: May 31, 2024

If you’re looking for things to do in Tokyo at night, you’ve come to the right place.  

Tokyo comes alive at night with a vibrant array of activities that showcase the city’s dynamic culture and boundless energy.

Here are the top things to do in Tokyo Japan at night.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Japan Essentials

We almost always find the best flights to Tokyo and Osaka on Momondo .  It may be worthwhile to compare these with Skyscanner and a new but promising flight aggregator, WayAway .

Don’t lose time upon arrival at the airport and order your Japan travel SIM  or portable WiFi device in advance so that it’s ready and waiting for you at the airport when you arrive.

Find out which JR Pass will save you the most for your trip to Japan.

Check out our ultimate Japan travel blog where you can find many more interesting Japan articles to prepare for your trip.

Need help with your Japan trip planning? Check out this post on how to plan your trip to Japan.

Admire Tokyo Tower At Night 

Take in the graceful outline of Tokyo Tower against the evening sky, symbolizing Japan’s post-war revival.

As night falls, experience the tower’s illumination, reflecting Tokyo’s vibrant energy. 

Gaze upon the Rainbow Bridge stretching across Tokyo Bay, casting its shimmering lights onto the water, enriching the city’s nocturnal panorama. 

Furthermore, admire the captivating Tokyo Skytree, serving as a contemporary emblem of the city’s progress and strength, aglow against the dark backdrop. 

Tokyo Tower, when illuminated at night, presents a stunning perspective of the city’s lit skyline, offering a distinct yet equally remarkable sight. 

Note that Tokyo Tower is always busy. Don’t want to wait in line? Check out the skip-the-line tickets below.

Check prices and availability: Tokyo Tower Skip the Line

Personal Tip: Try to experience both day and night views if time allows. There’s no time limit for the Main Deck, so you can stay as long as you please. 

Witness Tokyo during daylight when it’s bright, then relax with refreshments or ice cream and wait for dusk. 

How to Get There: The tower is a short walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Oedo Line or Kamiyacho Station on the Hibiya Line. 

Experience Shibuya Crossing 

Shibuya Crossing transforms into an essential Tokyo landmark, vibrant with energy as night falls. Amidst shimmering lights, this renowned crossing becomes a mesmerizing sight.  

Neon lights and bustling crowds create an electric ambiance, encapsulating Tokyo’s vibrant spirit after dark. 

For an elevated view, Shibuya Sky offers an enticing option. Conveniently located beneath Shibuya station, accessing this vantage point is simple. 

Check prices and availability: Shibuya Sky Viewing Platform

Personal Tip: When visiting Shibuya Crossing, consider arriving during the late afternoon or early evening to experience the vibrant atmosphere as the day transitions into the night. 

This timing allows you to witness the crossing both in daylight and illuminated by the neon lights, capturing the dynamic energy of the area in different contexts. 

How to Get There: To reach Shibuya Crossing, head to Shibuya station, conveniently located directly beneath the crossing. 

Take the Hachiko exit for seamless access to the vibrant streets of Shibuya. 

On a budget? Here we share a list of the best free things to do in Tokyo.

Stroll Through Omoide Yokocho 

Omoide Yokocho offers a nostalgic glimpse of Tokyo’s post-war era. This narrow alleyway is lined with tiny bars and eateries. 

After dark the lantern-lit paths and aromatic smoke from grilled skewers create an inviting atmosphere. 

It’s a great place to experience traditional Japanese izakaya culture. 

Personal Tip: When visiting Omoide Yokocho, we recommend trying several dishes by hopping between different izakayas (traditional Japanese pubs) to experience the diverse flavors and atmosphere. 

How to Get There: Located near Shinjuku Station, use the West Exit for a short walk to the alley. 

EPIC Tokyo Itinerary: 5 Days of Unforgettable Adventures

Enjoy The Night View From Roppongi Hills Mori Tower 

The observation deck at Roppongi Hills Mori Tower offers some of the best night views of Tokyo. 

From the 52nd floor, you can see Tokyo’s skyline illuminated against the night sky.

The Tokyo City View Sky Deck is an open-air experience that makes the view even more stunning. 

Personal Tip: Consider checking the schedule for any special events or exhibitions that are held in the tower or the surrounding Roppongi Hills complex, as they often showcase the vibrant cultural scene of Tokyo. 

How to Get There: The tower is a short walk from Roppongi Station on the Hibiya Line. 

The best places to visit in Tokyo

Explore Golden Gai 

Golden Gai is famous for its unique nightlife scene with over 200 tiny bars. 

Each bar has its distinct character, from jazz lounges to punk rock dives.

The area retains an old-world charm, offering an intimate and eclectic drinking experience. 

Personal Tip: Respect individual bar rules and be open to trying new and unique drinks that can enhance your overall experience in this iconic area. 

How To Get There: Located in Shinjuku, it’s a ten-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s East Exit. 

12 Best Things To Do In Tokyo

Take A Sumida River Cruise 

A night cruise along the Sumida River is a serene way to see Tokyo. 

The illuminated cityscape reflecting on the water is enchanting. 

Popular routes include views of the Tokyo Skytree and Rainbow Bridge, providing a different perspective of the city. 

Personal Tip: Be sure to dress warmly, especially during the cooler months, to fully appreciate the outdoor elements of the cruise while taking in the breathtaking scenery. 

How To Get There: Board the cruise at Asakusa Pier, near Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line. 

Best Hidden Gems in Tokyo

Walk Through Akihabara’s Electric Town 

Akihabara is a paradise for tech enthusiasts and anime fans, especially at night. 

The district is filled with bright lights and electronic stores.

Anime shops and themed cafes add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a hub for pop culture lovers. 

Personal Tip: Check out the various themed cafes that cater to different pop culture interests.

It’s important to note that some themed cafes may have specific entry requirements or time limits, so it’s a good idea to plan and make reservations if needed 

How To Get There: Akihabara Station, accessible via the JR Yamanote Line, is at the heart of the district. 

Relax In An Onsen At Odaiba 

Relaxing in an onsen at Odaiba at night offers a serene and enchanting experience.

The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the gentle glow of city lights reflecting on the water, creates a soothing and picturesque setting. 

Whether it’s a traditional onsen or a modern hot spring facility, the nighttime ambiance adds an extra layer of tranquility, making it the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. 

After a calming soak, taking a stroll along the waterfront to savor the nighttime views of Tokyo Bay completes the experience, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. 

Personal Tip: Don’t forget to check the closing times of the onsen to ensure you have enough time to fully unwind and make the most of this experience. 

How to Get There: Take the Yurikamome Line to Telecom Center Station. From here it is a short walk to the onsen. 

17 Best Onsen Hotels in Tokyo You Need To Stay At

Wander Through Kabukicho 

When venturing into Kabukicho at night, prepare to be captivated by Tokyo’s most renowned red-light district, celebrated for its lively and diverse nightlife. 

As you stroll through the district, you’ll be enveloped by a mesmerizing display of neon lights, beckoning you to explore the bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that line the vibrant streets. 

How to Get There: Kabukicho is a short walk from Shinjuku Station’s East Exit. 

Visit Tsukiji Outer Market 

The Tsukiji Outer Market, though the inner market has relocated, continues to bustle with activity into the evening. 

This is a prime opportunity to savor a wide array of fresh seafood and other delectable delicacies. 

The lively atmosphere and diverse food stalls create a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a delightful culinary experience even after dark. 

Personal Tip: Check the operating hours of specific stalls beforehand to make the most of your nighttime culinary adventure at the Tsukiji Outer Market. 

How to Get There: Take the Hibiya Line to Tsukiji Station. From there it is a short walk to the market. 

Discover The Magic Of TeamLab Borderless 

Visiting teamLab Borderless at night offers a mesmerizing and immersive experience unlike any other. 

As the sun sets, the digital art installations come to life in a whole new light, creating a magical and ethereal atmosphere. 

The way light, color, and movement work together in the big exhibition space makes visitors feel amazed and enchanted, letting them get lost in the beautiful and always changing scenes. 

Exploring the maze of digital art becomes even more captivating as the evening goes on, creating an unforgettable journey through the immersive world of teamLab Borderless. 

Check prices and availability: Teamlab Borderless Mori Tokyo

Personal Tip: When visiting TeamLab Planets, keep in mind the water rooms as a unique feature. In some areas, you’ll walk through shallow water, so wearing shorts or trousers that you can roll up to the knees is recommended.  

Also, due to several rooms having mirrored floors, it’s best to avoid wearing skirts. 

How To Get There: The museum is accessible by metro, the closest stop is Aomi Station. From the station, walk to the Toyota showroom and go through it. 

The entrance to the museum is near the giant Ferris Wheel. 

Shop In Harajuku’s Takeshita Street 

Harajuku’s Takeshita Street is bustling with activity even after dark. 

Famous for its trendy shops and eclectic vibe, it’s a great place for evening shopping.

The street is lined with fashion boutiques, quirky stores, and eateries offering unique snacks. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to try some delicious street food while taking in the lively energy of the area. 

How To Get There: Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line is right next to Takeshita Street. 

The best Japan 5-day itinerary suggestions for first-timers

Visit Sensō-ji Temple 

Exploring Sensō-ji Temple at night offers a serene and enchanting experience, with the illuminated architecture creating a magical atmosphere. 

The crowds are usually thinner, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of the temple grounds and surrounding area. 

The serene atmosphere and softly lit lanterns offer a different perspective compared to daytime visits, making it an ideal time for reflection and peaceful contemplation. 

How To Get There: The temple is a short walk from Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line. 

Dine At A Themed Restaurant 

Treat your taste buds to a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure at one of Tokyo’s themed restaurants. 

From whimsical maid cafes to immersive robot-themed eateries, these dining establishments offer more than just delicious cuisine—they provide a feast for the senses. 

Immerse yourself in a world of fantasy and creativity as you indulge in delectable dishes amidst themed decor and entertaining performances. 

Here are some of the best-themed cafes you should visit:

• Pokémon Café Tokyo
• Pom Pom Purin
• Peanuts Cafe Snoopy Museum Tokyo
• Sanrio Cafe
• Ninja Asakusa
• The Vampire Cafe
• Samurai Restaurant

Night Shopping 

Experience the thrill of nighttime shopping in Tokyo’s vibrant districts, where the city’s eclectic blend of culture, fashion, and commerce truly shines. 

Tokyo provides a wide range of shopping opportunities after dark, from lively markets to stylish boutiques. 

Discover unique treasures, stylish fashion, and local delicacies as you explore the illuminated streets and lively atmosphere of Tokyo’s nighttime shopping scene. 

Personal Tip : When night shopping in Tokyo, consider exploring the vibrant and eclectic markets like Ameyoko in Ueno or the various night markets in areas such as Asakusa and Shimokitazawa. 

How to Get There: Tokyo’s major shopping districts, including Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza, are easily accessible by public transportation.

Simply take the train to the nearest station and follow the signs to the shopping district of your choice. 

Having a hard time navigating Tokyo’s metro? Check out this post where we share how to use Tokyo’s public transport.

Best Japanese Souvenirs You Should Take Home

Conclusion 

Tokyo’s nightlife offers something for everyone, from serene temple visits to vibrant entertainment districts. 

Each activity provides a unique glimpse into the city’s culture and charm, making nights in Tokyo unforgettable. 

Whether you’re seeking tranquility or excitement, Tokyo at night is an experience not to be missed. 

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10 Awesome Things to Do in Tokyo at Night

Updated September 17, 2023

Tokyo is a dynamic place during the day. But guys. It’s something else entirely once the sun goes down. With so much to choose from ( amusement parks to spooky tours to world-class sushi), we’ve put together ten of the most awesome things to do in Tokyo at night. Any questions? Send us a message !

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners— Heroes —who build unique, locally-curated trip plans, designed just for you.  Get started .

#1: Enjoy Tokyo’s delicious late-night eats

It’s a no brainer that some of the best things to do in Tokyo include FOOD. At night, this is especially true.

• Sushi: Some of the best sushi in the world is found in Tokyo. Treat yourself at the famous Jiro sushi or check out the more budget-friendly (and fun!) kaiten sushi—aka sushi delivered by conveyor belt.
• Ramen: Ramen is huge in Japan, and it’s the ultimate drunk food. Make sure to chow down!
• Crazy restaurants: Feeling wild? Eating at one of Tokyo’s famous themed restaurants is a crazy-fun thing to do in Japan . The electric and colorful Robot Restaurant is one of the most awesome (and delicious).
• Local flavor: For the most authentic culinary experience, definitely talk to a Tokyo local about their favorite restaurants.

Pro tip : French food is surprisingly awesome in Japan . So if you *feel* like topping off dinner with a macaron , you definitely can.

#2: Karaoke your heart out

It’s Tokyo—so you know there’s going to be a killer karaoke scene. Tokyo, is, after all, the karaoke capital of the world !

Most places will charge a fee that includes *unlimited* karaoke and a certain number of drinks, so get your liquid courage going—it’s time to expand your audience beyond your shower. Seriously though—spending the night in a Karaoke bar is one of the coolest things to do in Tokyo . Since there are so many karaoke bars in the city, get some advice from a Tokyo trip planner to know which to hit up first.

#3: Get crazy in Shibuya

One of the biggest draws in Shibuya is the world-famous Shibuya crossing. The busiest crosswalk in the world , more than two thousand people cross at peak times—and yet it works! With the glow of traffic lights and buildings nearby (think Times Square) the almost-effortless synchronization of so many people is almost magical.  is even cooler at night.

Aside from crossing the street (which you may want to do two or three times), the Shibuya district ranks among the most exciting in Tokyo. What is there to do in Shibuya ? You name it!

• Shibuya Hikarie Observatory: Once you’ve enjoyed the thrill of rushing across the famous crosswalk, check it out from above! The Shibuya Hikarie Observatory is free and the view is pretty priceless.
• Wander to Drunkard Alley: You may have already guessed—this one involves drinking. But Drunkard Alley is about more than getting tanked—it's about exploring the 50-or-so bars that are crammed in two tiny parallel alleyways. When we say tiny, we mean it! Most bars here only fit four or five people.
• Go shopping in the Omotesandō district: This is like Tokyo’s Champs Elysees—the district is filled with high-class brands and stores, which makes it a shopper’s paradise. While in the area, check out the Museum of Modern Art (yes, same as NYC), where MoMA has a branch focused on design.
• Pro tip: resist the temptation to add a tag of your own: tourists have been arrested for this.
• Club it up : With tons of clubs within walking distance from Shibuya Station, going out in this part of town is a cinch. Chat with a local to help choose a club you’ll love, and check out some of our favorites including Sound Museum Vision and Club Asia.

#4: Indulge in Tokyo’s great nightlife

And speaking of Shibuya, Tokyo is one of the best cities to visit in Japan because of its insanely awesome nightlife. There’s something for every type of person. Some highlights:

• Japan’s craft beer scene: Even if you aren’t in town for Tokyo’s Oedo Beer Festival , you can still indulge in Japan’s exciting craft beer scene. For beer fans, Beer Club Popeye is the place to go. Craft Beer Bar IBrew is also a popular spot.
• Wild nightclubs: There are a ton of great nightclubs in Tokyo . Ageha is one of the favorites in town. Both Contact   and Vent are known for their world-class sound systems. Party it up! You won’t lack for choices.
• Izakaya Hopping (bar crawl, baby!): There are tons of little alleyways in Tokyo that are crammed with Izakaya (basically Japanese pubs). They’re great places to sample a lot of sake and enjoy local food. Have a Tokyo trip planner find you an Izakaya Hopping tour, or simply ask them for their favorite spots.
• Find a fancy cocktail: Get thee to Ginza, an upscale part of Tokyo, for some of the best cocktails in town. Ginza 300 Bar Next offers over 150 different cocktails. At Little Smith, cocktail connaisseurs can ask for a custom cocktail. And High Five was recently named one of the world’s best bars .

Pro tip : this is a good time to mention that while Uber exists in Japan , it is rare and expensive and hardly used. Don’t fret! Classic taxis are everywhere. And here’s another tip for travel in Tokyo : download the Hyperdia app to make using the metro easy.

#5: Catch a ballgame at the Tokyo Dome

Baseball may be America’s pastime, but it’s also HUGE in Japan. And Tokyo is the place to catch a game. Have a local trip planner help you buy tickets for a game at the Tokyo Dome , where you can cheer on the Yomiuri Giants —one of the best- known Japanese teams.

Let’s plaaaaaay ball!! (プレーボール!! Er, definitely ask your trip planner for pronunciation tips).

Pro tip : In another direction, check out a sumo match. It’s a classic must-do while you’re in Tokyo . Since the highest ranked sumo wrestlers meet around 6 PM, it’s also a great nighttime activity!

#6: Relive your childhood at Tokyo Disney

Among all the wonderful destinations in Tokyo, there is one *especially* magical place. Yup! Tokyo Disneyland is one of the most fun places to go in Tokyo .

Only about fifteen minutes from downtown Tokyo, there are tons of great rides, foods, and plenty to explore, even for people who spent *every* vacation at Disneyland as a child. Plus it’s open until 10 PM, which means that visitors can squeeze in a few hours of post-sundown enchantment.

#7: Check out the incredible Shinjuku district

The Shinjuku district in Tokyo deserves a space on any Tokyo itinerary , as there are literally thousands of things to do here. And as Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, you can feel confident exploring this exciting part of town.

Some highlights include:

• Spectacular city views: Ascend to the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a spectacular view of this vibrant district.
• Bar hop in Golden Gai : With over 200 tiny bars crammed onto this block in Shinjuku, bar hopping is a breeze! Bars that welcome foreigners will have signs in English—but some are just for locals—so make sure to get some local tips before you go!
• Revel in rare whiskey: Japan is known for its crazy good whiskey, so check out Zoetrope to sample some of the 300 whiskeys on the shelf.
• Play ball: Of course you can watch baseball in Japan. OR you can play at the real thing—by checking out the all-night batting cages in Shinjuku.
• Catch a midnight show: The Shinjuku Wald 9 movie theater has showtimes that stretch way late into the night. Just be sure to check if the movie has been dubbed!

#8: Satisfy your late night cravings with crazy Japanese candy

Japanese candy is delicious and crazy fun. You’ll recognize some brands, but with so many awesome unique flavors there’s still plenty to explore. Find some wasabi Kit Kats (or one of the other 299 Japanese Kit Kat flavors ), birthday cake Oreos, sushi Lays, or...well, we’ll let you discover it for yourself.

Plus there are tons of Japanese candies you probably can’t find elsewhere. Whatever you pick, make sure to get some extra snacks to bring home from Japan !

#9: Get creepy on a ghost tour

Tokyo may feel like a city from the future, but it’s actually brimming with reminders of its rich history and deep spirituality. Ghost tours are amazing because they cast light on a part of Tokyo that’s often overlooked.

Book a tour through a group like the Haunted Tokyo Tour to learn about the ghosts and goblins that also call Tokyo home. Take the day tour if you’re scared, or book the night tour (starting at 7 PM) for a creepy start to a crazy Tokyo night.

#10: Sleep Japanese-style in a Capsule Hotel or Ryokan

Just because the night is winding down does not mean the adventure has to stop. Bedtime offers another chance to explore.

Here’s the thing to do in Tokyo : book a night at either a capsule hotel (which is exactly what it sounds like and a great option for keeping under budget) or make reservations at a Ryokan —basically a super cool traditional inn that also provides meals.

Night owls, rejoice! Some of the best things to do in Japan can be found in Tokyo at night. From delicious food to awesome activities, Tokyo’s night scene is not to be missed. For a truly incredible night in Tokyo, get the help of a Tokyo trip planner . They’ll help build a custom itinerary and will be available to help if you run into issues Questions? Send us a message !

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in Japan
• 10 Day Trips from Tokyo You Have to Experience
• In Case You’re Wondering ‘Will My Phone Work in Japan?’
• Plan a Trip to Japan: The 2024 Guide
• How to Find Cheap Flights to Japan Under $500

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• Destinations

14 Best Nightlife Activities in Tokyo

Enjoy Tokyo all night long! Best things to do in Tokyo at night!

Tokyo is the city that never sleeps! Many entertainment facilities in Tokyo are open all day, and nightlife in Tokyo is as enjoyable as daytime. From authentic drinking alleys to observation decks for a stunning night city view, here are the most recommended activities and things to see in Tokyo at night!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

1. Robot Restaurant/Samurai Restaurant

Robot Restaurant has been one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo for past years. It’s located in the biggest red light district in Tokyo, Kabukicho, Shinjuku district. Robots, neon-lights and pretty girls.. let’s party in the most extravagant way! Robot Restaurant, which once closed in 2021, has reopened in the same location in Shinjuku in May 2023. At the time of opening, there is only one performance per day from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., but other schedules may be added in the future.

Despite the announcement of comeback, the Robot Restaurant is still closed due to technical issues and no reopening date has been announced. However, there is a new show called the Samurai Restaurant launched by the same creator as the Robot Restaurant, moreover, it’s in the same location. If you wish to visit Robot Restaurant, you can have the similar experience with the brand new Samurai Restaurant, featuring a vibrant and crazy samurai show!

Review: Samurai Restaurant to Open in Shinjuku

You can reserve your seat at Robot Restaurant/Samurai Restaurant through the link blow with the special discounted rate!!

2. Shinjuku

Shinjuku is Tokyo’s best neighbourhood for night-out with three famous nightlife spots. Kabukicho: the biggest red light district in Japan, Golden Gai: the area with many tiny and cozy bars gather and Omoide Yokocho: old-fashion and nostalgic Izakaya alley. On top of these, Shinjuku offers numbers of nightclubs, bars and entertainment facilities that are open until late night.

Shinjuku nightlife wouldn’t complete without eating local dishes and at traditional izakaya bars. Try this Tokyo Bar Hopping Food tour by Magical Trip to explore hidden izakaya bars at night.

3. Izakaya Hopping (Pub Crawl)

Like Shinjuku, there are many other areas in Tokyo where many local Izakaya bars gather. Joining some of Izakaya hopping tours could be the best way to explore the local drinking culture. Sip some Sake and enjoy Japanese pub food to experience the local nightlife in Japan!

Shibuya and Asakusa are two most popular areas to explore Tokyo’s nightlife besides Shinjuku area. Shibuya area offers a young and energetic nightlife which is perfect for trendy foodie travellers. On the other hand, Asakusa is a perfect area to learn the retro and historical culture of Tokyo. If you want to know the old-fashioned nightlife of Tokyo rather than modern and glaring nightlife, Asakusa is more for you. Check out the links below for more details about night food tour in Shibuya and Asakusa areas.

4. Observatories

Gazing the city view from skyscrapers is one of must-do things in Tokyo. Tokyo has numbers of amazing observatories to see the panoramic view of the city even including Kanto area and Mt.Fuji when the visibility is good during the day. Also the views are even more spectacular at night when the whole city glows like a jewel box. Here are some of the most recommended observatory decks that you shouldn’t miss in Tokyo!

▶ Tokyo City View at Roppongi Hills ▶ Tokyo Tower ▶ Tokyo Skytree ▶ Shibuya Sky

5. Night Cruise

Looking for different way to enjoy the city view? Watching Tokyo from the ocean could be more exclusive, and it’s even better with meals. The Tokyo Bay Cruise offers luxurious french course lunch or dinner with the romantic view of Tokyo.

▶ Tokyo Bay Dinner Cruise

For the unique cruising experience, Yakatabune is also recommended. Yakatabune is a traditional Japanese houseboat that takes guests sightseeing tour while serving authentic Japanese cuisine.

▶ Tokyo Landmarks Sightseeing Houseboat Cruise Tour

6. teamLab Planets

teamLab Planets is a digital art museum located in Toyosu area. The body-immersive museum comprises with four large-scale artwork space where visitors can walk through and immerse into. The indoor museum is a great place to visit both in daytime or night as they are open from 9am to 9pm (10pm on weekend).

▶Book teamLab Planets Tokyo ticket

7. Clubbing

Tokyo has numbers night clubs where you can party all night long, and many of them gather in Roppongi and Shibuya areas. If you love clubbing, how about hop in at several great clubs and enjoy dancing along amazing music?? Some of most popular night clubs in Tokyo are Womb, Atom Tokyo, Camelot, 1OAK Tokyo, Warp and Raise Tokyo.

8. Live Shows

There are many different kinds of live performance shows available in Tokyo today, such as a traditional Japanese show, comedy show held in a local bar and unique themed performance! Here are some of recommended night shows available in Tokyo today!

▶ Roppongi Kingyo https://www.kingyo.co.jp/ ▶ Tantra https://tantra-tokyo.com/ ▶ Tokyo Comedy Bar https://www.tokyocomedybar.com/

9. Baseball Games

Baseball is the most popular sport in Japan, and during the season, baseball games are held frequently in Tokyo. The biggest baseball stadium, Tokyo Dome is home to Yomiuri Giants and Jingu Stadium is home to Yakult Swallows, which is located near Harajuku and Shibuya area. If you are around during the season, don’t miss a chance to see the world’s greatest baseball matches in Tokyo!

10. Local Food Walking Tour

If you wish to have an authentic food experience in Tokyo, joining one of food walking tours in Tokyo is highly recommended. Not only tasting delicious Japanese dishes, but also learn the real food culture and discover hidden eateries which you may not find on guidebooks. This night foodie tour is one of the most popular food tours which takes place in Shinjuku. Visit some restaurants and enjoy authentic Japanese dishes and desserts! Click the link below for more details and book the tour with discount now 🙂

11. Helicopter

If observatory decks and cruising are not impressive enough for you, how about gazing the city from the sky? The Tokyo Sky Cruising with a helicopter tour offers the best experience of viewing Tokyo City from the sky, only for yourself!

▶ Tokyo Helicopter Cruise

12. Karaoke

Karaoke is one of the most unique culture in Japan, and it’s extremely popular. Especially, many Japanese go to Karaoke after drinking! It doesn’t matter if you like singing or not, Karaoke is simply the great way to have fun with friends, and also learn the Japanese culture! Join the local tour “Night-time Karaoke Bar Experience in Tokyo” which will take you to one of the best Izakaya streets of Tokyo, get tipsy then hit Karaoke to party like Japanese!

13. Ninja Shinjuku

Ninja Shinjuku is the great entertaining restaurant featuring the world of Ninja from Edo period and delicious Japanese cuisine. The high quality Japanese food including Wagyu Beef and creative fusion dishes are served by Ninjas who also play magical illusions in front of guests.

Ninja Shinjuku ▶ http://ninjaworld.jp/shinjuku/

14.  Light-up Spots/Events

Japanese people love illuminations. And there are several spots and events available through the year, offering spectacular and romantic lights to illuminate the city.

The best season to see spectacular light-ups in Japan is winter as winter illumination events are held across the country from late autumn to early spring. Likewise, there are numbers of illumination events held in Tokyo, and it’s indeed the most popular activity in winter time. Check the article for more info about winter illuminations in Tokyo. ▶ Tokyo Winter Illumination Guide

Other recommended season is spring and autumn, as these two seasons hosts particularly popular events in the country: cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. During the peak season for both events, light-ups are specially held at numbers of best viewing spots in the city, such as temples, gardens and parks. Check the articles below for popular cherry blossoms and autumn leaves spots in Tokyo.

▶ 10 BEST Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Tokyo ▶ Top 5 Autumn Leaves Spots in Tokyo

Did you enjoy the list?? Tokyo is absolutely entertaining both day and night! Enjoy your day in Tokyo all day long with fun and unique night activities 🙂

For more info about special activities and interesting things to do in Tokyo, you may wanna check out these articles, too!

▽ Related Articles ▽

▼ Editor’s Picks ▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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25 unforgettable things to do in Tokyo at night: your ultimate guide

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July 18, 2023

Dive into Tokyo's culinary scene: from street food to traditional delicacies

Let loose at a karaoke bar, connect with locals, splurge at the peninsula hotel, roppongi area, omotesando area.

• Experience the nightlife in Shinjuku's Kabukicho district

Visit the Tokyo Skytree at night for a panoramic view of the city

Experience an izakaya (japanese pub) night out, stroll around odaiba seaside park and its illuminated attractions, enjoy the stunning teamlab borderless digital art museum, attend a live show in one of the many music venues around the city, enjoy a night at a japanese bathhouse (sento) or a hot spring (onsen), explore the tsukiji outer market, which stays open until late, take part in a traditional tea ceremony in hama-rikyu gardens, visit a themed café or restaurant, enjoy late-night shopping in shibuya and harajuku areas, go for a relaxing night cruise in tokyo bay, attend a japanese baseball game at the tokyo dome, experience the thrill of a pachinko parlor, visit a japanese whiskey bar for a tasting tour, walk along the beautifully lit meguro river during the cherry blossom season, tokyo tower, book private experiences in tokyo.

When in Osaka make sure to try “kushikatsu”!

About 18 years ago I came to Tokyo to visit a friend. Long story short, I ended up getting married here and even after moving back to Europe, I realized Japan is the place I really want to be! If I had to describe Tokyo in one sentence, it would be as a city that never sleeps, never stops moving and never ceases to amaze you. The nightlife in Tokyo is incredible. You'll always find something to do no matter the time of day or night. So if you're looking for a party scene, you'll have a ball in Tokyo. Here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Tokyo at night to feel like a Tokyoite!

Dine at one of Tokyo's favorite local or chain eateries

Tokyo's food is a world unto its own. I love trying local Japanese dishes and exploring the new Tokyo restaurants that constantly pop up all over the city. There are so many places to eat in Tokyo that it's impossible to pick a favorite!

A few of my recommendations for good Japanese food are Sushi Zanmai and Ippudo for ramen. These are chain restaurants, but they offer fantastic food at reasonable prices. Another couple of chain restaurants that Tokyo locals adore are Yoshinoya, famous for its gyudon (beef bowl), and Ootoya, where you can enjoy a wholesome teishoku, or set meal.

And if you're looking for something a bit different, do check out Moz Burgers, a Japanese fast-food chain known for its delicious and creative burgers. There's also CoCo Ichibanya, which offers a customizable curry experience that can suit all tastes and preferences.

These eateries are generally more affordable than upscale restaurants like Peter at the Peninsula, which I'd highly recommend if you're willing to splurge a little on a night out. And if you're looking for vegan or vegetarian options, I'd suggest Mr. Farmer in Shibuya. They have a few branches in different locations in Tokyo, and they're committed to serving great food using only fresh produce.

Street food is one of my favorite things about Asian food culture, and Japan is no exception! Street food is not only the most affordable way of eating in Tokyo, but it's also a great way to experience local culture. My top recommendations for must-try foods in Tokyo are sushi, ramen, soba noodles with tempura, shabu-shabu, and yakitori. And sake, of course! Soba noodles are made from buckwheat, setting it apart from regular udon noodles made of thick white wheat. I like to order it on the side of tempura. Shabu-shabu is a traditional Japanese hotpot dish consisting of thinly sliced meat served with vegetables. Yakitori is a very common Japanese street food dish where chicken, seafood, or vegetables are served grilled on a skewer. Yanaka Ginza, Togoshi Ginza, and Ueno Park are really good areas to go for street food in Tokyo.

 Karaoke is an integral part of Japan's nightlife – definitely a top pick if you're looking for fun things to do in Tokyo at night! My husband and I love going to karaoke bars when we have a night out in Tokyo city. One of our favourite places is BAR Queen's-Q in Roppongi, who also has a karaoke room. Karaoke Kan is a very popular bar in the Shibuya district, made famous by the movie Lost in Translation. Big Echo Karaoke is another popular on in the Ginza district, known for its Hello Kitty-themed rooms and all-you-can-drink specials. Most karaoke bars work on the principle of paying for 30-minute blocks, for which prices range from as little as ¥100 and going up to ¥400 during peak hours over weekends. There is also the option of paying for free time, which means that there is no limit to the time you can spend in your karaoke room. Prices for free time usually start around ¥1000.

The best way to immerse in the culture of a foreign city is to hang out with locals – the most enriching experience you can have! Besides, locals will be able to tell you much more about their home city than any travel guide. Locals' favorite hangout spots are usually hidden away from locations already ‘found' by tourists. When you walk down the street in Tokyo, watch out for small restaurants and bars that don't necessarily look like anything special: minimal décor, no signage, and little to no street-side marketing to invite you inside. These places are Tokyo's real hidden gems! You'll find great food and drinks and even better local company. My suggestion would be to hang out with Japanese locals in this way at least one night out of your time in Tokyo, which will leave you with plenty of time to explore the destinations more popular on the many  Tokyo tours available.

If you want to spend a little more on a night out in Tokyo, head to the Peninsula Hotel. Peter at the Peninsula is an upscale bar and restaurant where you'll pay for the experience and view just as much as the delicious food itself. Located on the 54th floor of the building, you'll have a spectacular view of the Imperial Palace, especially at night. The restaurant offers a fine dining experience like no other, and the bar has some of the best cocktails in all of Tokyo. Even if you don't stay for dinner, I definitely recommend spoiling yourself with a cocktail or two while enjoying the incredible view of the sun setting over Tokyo's skyscrapers.

Tokyo's Roppongi district, with its lively bar-hopping scene, is probably my favorite city area. People are often overwhelmed by its chaos but that's nothing to be scared of! It may be a little crazy but as a local, I always have a lot of fun in Roppongi. The bars and restaurants in Roppongi cater for the younger and more mature crowd, so whether you're bar- hopping or settling in one spot, you're guaranteed to find something you like.

One of my favorite stops when I'm out bar-hopping in this area is BAR Queen's-Q, which I mentioned earlier as well. This spot is ideal for a casual night out in Tokyo – you can play darts or pool, have a few drinks, order some bar food and do karaoke.

When the night starts getting deeper, another great place to hit during your bar-hopping adventure in Roppongi is Mogambo Bar. It's perfect for late-night drinks and some more karaoke, really showcasing the vibrant and varied nightlife of Tokyo.

Ginza is the most stylish area in Tokyo. Shops and restaurants are somewhat on the higher end which means that this district generally appeals to the more mature crowd. I like going to Ginza when I'm feeling fancy and want to treat myself to a few classy cocktails! I'd recommend going to the New York Grill in Park Hyatt for their live music nights on Fridays.

For a truly unique Tokyo experience, you've got to visit Bar Gaslight Eve in Ginza. Known for their deliciously crafted cocktails and tempting snacks, it's the kind of place that welcomes you with its warm atmosphere. With its vibrant yet intimate setting, you'll quickly find yourself immersed in engaging conversations. So, if you're seeking a night out that feels authentic yet lively, Bar Gaslight Eve is your go-to spot!

Located in the Shibuya area, just a stone's throw away from the captivating Shibuya Sky observation deck, Omotesando is a shopping street that's often referred to as Tokyo's Champs-Elysees. Like Ginza, Omotesando is generally a bit more expensive, but it's well worth exploring for its unique blend of luxury and style.

A great bar in Omotesando, particularly if you're wrapping up a visit to Shibuya Sky, is Two Rooms Bar & Grill. They serve really good cocktails and the view from the outside seating area on the terrace is beautiful! It's a wonderful place to wind down and reflect on the panoramic city views you've just taken in from Shibuya Sky.

Another notable spot close to Shibuya Sky is Omotesando Hills, a massive shopping building that also houses a lot of really good cafes and restaurants. This is the number one luxury shopping location in Tokyo city, featuring international brands like Jimmy Choo, Dolce & Gabbana, and Yves Saint Laurent.

When it comes to things to do in Tokyo at night, I can't help but recommend the electrifying energy of Shinjuku's Kabukicho district, conveniently situated near the always lively Shinjuku Station. As a local, I can tell you there's a unique buzz here that captures the essence of Tokyo nightlife like nowhere else, and Golden Gai, with its narrow alleys of tiny bars, is a highlight you mustn't miss.

One of my personal highlights in the district is Don Quijote, the sprawling and quirky discount store. This place offers a shopping experience that's truly extraordinary, even by Tokyo standards. You'll find yourself amidst bright neon lights, an eclectic range of products, and the pulse of vibrant Tokyo life. It's worth noting that this area was once home to the popular and wonderfully bizarre Robot Restaurant, adding a layer of intrigue to your visit.

After exploring the intriguing labyrinth that is Don Quijote, I suggest heading over to Golden Gai for a bit of bar hopping. This network of small, distinct bars offers a truly authentic taste of Tokyo's nightlife. Each bar has its own unique appeal, making your night out an essential Tokyo experience.

Just a stone's throw away from Shinjuku Station and Golden Gai is Omoide Yokocho, a hidden gem in the midst of the city's hustle. As a local, I've spent countless evenings nestled in this charming alleyway, indulging in the wide variety of yakitori stalls on offer. The perfect treat after a day filled with sightseeing. And if you still have energy to spare after your bar hopping in Golden Gai, Kabukicho, a hotspot in Tokyo nightlife, is home to a multitude of karaoke joints.

When considering things to do in Tokyo at night as a local, I would definitely suggest adding a visit to the Tokyo Skytree to your visitor's Tokyo bucket list. As one of the most popular tourist attractions, the nighttime view from this iconic landmark is truly breath-taking. The city sprawls out below you under a canvas of stars, illuminated by countless twinkling and neon lights. It's a unique perspective that brings Tokyo's vastness into view in a mesmerizing way.

Despite the city's bustling energy, the Tokyo Skytree offers a tranquil escape. Up there, with the illuminated cityscape beneath you, everything feels calm and serene. As a local, I often recommend this experience to visitors seeking a moment of quiet in the midst of all the hustle and bustle. The Tokyo Skytree should definitely be on your Tokyo night tour itinerary. After all, it's not just one of the most popular tourist attractions, it's a whole different way to appreciate the city!

When you're pondering over things to do in Tokyo at night, an izakaya night out should definitely pop up on your list. It's a uniquely Japanese way to experience the local nightlife. Imagine a cozy pub scene, tantalizing food, and a diverse range of drinks - it's the ideal spot to unwind, exchange tales, and even embark on a mini pub crawl.

The beauty of it is that each izakaya is unique, boasting its own specialty dishes, ranging from mouth-watering skewers to fresh sashimi. And the drinks? Oh, they're varied too, with choices from traditional beer, to sake, and local shochu.

I'm quite fond of venturing over to Ameya Yokocho in Ueno, an inviting open-air market conveniently situated near Ueno Station. Nestled within the bustling market street, you'll find a cluster of Izakayas complete with outdoor seating. These spots make for a delightful hangout, where patrons can unwind with their drinks until the wee hours of the night.

When you're considering things to do in Tokyo at night, don't overlook the chance to experience the relaxed nightlife in Odaiba Seaside Park. This artificial island in Tokyo Bay magically transforms at night, with twinkling lights enhancing the charm of its famous tourist attractions, such as the Statue of Liberty replica and the awe-inspiring Palette Town's Giant Sky Wheel.

You can either chill out on the beach or marvel at the stunning view of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo skyline all lit up. It's all quite mesmerizing. The peaceful vibe in Odaiba provides a calm sanctuary from the usual hustle and bustle of the city, making it a delightful addition to your Tokyo night escapades.

If you're looking for things to do in Tokyo at night that are a bit different, I'd suggest a visit to the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, which is due to reopen in Toranomon-Azabudai in 2023. This isn't your ordinary museum – here, art goes beyond the usual confines. The interactive exhibits constantly shift, blend and react to visitors, creating a completely immersive experience.

You've got to check out the Forest of Resonating Lamps. It's a room filled with lamps that dance to the rhythm of your movements, creating a dynamic light show that's seriously impressive.

But teamLab Borderless is more than just a visual spectacle. It's about diving into the art, becoming part of it. It's an experience that could add a unique touch to your nighttime exploration in Tokyo.

If you're wondering about things to do in Tokyo at night and you're a music fan like me, then catching a live gig in one of Tokyo's numerous venues should be on your list. Tokyo is a real melting pot of music, serving up everything from J-Pop and rock to jazz. Being there, feeling the buzz of these venues, it's something you've got to do at least once - whether it's chilling to jazz tunes in the snug bars of Shibuya or grooving to catchy rhythms at a Roppongi concert.

If you're into jazz like I am, I can't recommend The Blue Note enough. It's a buzzing venue that hosts both local talents and international artists. But if you're more into rock or electronic beats, you might want to check out Liquidroom in Ebisu.

Going to a live gig is not only a fantastic way to dive into Tokyo's energetic nightlife, but it also gives you a flavor of the city's diverse music and entertainment scene.

Exploring further into Japanese culture, I'd highly recommend diving into the traditional world of bathhouses, known as 'sento', and hot springs, called 'onsen'.

An evening at a sento or onsen isn't just about cleanliness; it's a time for rejuvenation. You're immersed in warm water, surrounded by tranquility, participating in a ritual deeply rooted in Japanese lifestyle. This is more than a bath – it's a haven to unwind, contemplate, and step away from the city's constant energy.

Sento are common, public bathhouses found in urban areas, while onsen are natural hot springs, often private and nestled in more rural surroundings. Each carries its unique allure. Sento lets you peek into everyday local life, whereas onsen offers a chance to luxuriate in natural hot springs amid stunning landscapes.

Choosing to spend an evening in a sento or onsen could weave a thread of tranquility and rejuvenation into your Tokyo tour.

For food enthusiasts or those intrigued by local food, the Tsukiji Outer Market is a must-visit during your Tokyo nightlife exploration, especially if you're interested in the walking tours Tokyo has to offer. This bustling food hub, once home to the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, offers a variety of stalls and vendors selling a gamut of seafood, produce, and Japanese specialties. It's the perfect place for a nighttime food tour. From fresh sashimi to grilled skewers and unique pickles, the market is not just a treat for the taste buds but an immersion into local life.

Shifting gears from the digital to the traditional, I'd suggest taking some time to partake in a tea ceremony at the serene Hama-rikyu Gardens. Nestled within Tokyo's busy pace, this peaceful spot, once home to a feudal lord, is like a tranquil oasis.

The traditional Japanese tea ceremony is not just a cultural experience but a beautiful blend of aesthetics and mindfulness. As you sit in a teahouse overlooking the scenic gardens, you'll watch the mindful preparation and serving of the tea. This meditative practice invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and find beauty in the simple act of tea-making.

Participating in a tea ceremony is like stepping into a time machine, offering a quiet moment of reflection and a glimpse into an ancient tradition that is the heart of Japanese culture.

When it comes to dining in Tokyo, let me tell you, it's not just about the food—it's a whole experience. And for a taste of the unique and unexpected, I'd recommend checking out the city's assortment of Japanese restaurants, each with their own distinctive themes and styles. Each spot crafts its own atmosphere and story, turning a meal into a truly memorable event, all while showcasing the quintessential Japanese style of blending tradition with innovation.

Perhaps start with a visit to a maid café, a very popular type of Japanese restaurant. Here, you'll be served by staff dressed in cute maid costumes, setting a scene straight out of an anime series. Or, if you're up for a bit of the extraordinary, you've got to try the Vampire Cafe. This place isn't just about dining, it's an experience - Imagine eating in a Gothic ambiance filled with dramatic decor, where the fun is not only in the meal but also in the captivating performances. If you fancy something a tad more secretive, a ninja restaurant or café might be right up your alley. Watch as servers clad in ninja gear weave their way through a maze-like interior, perfectly epitomizing the blend of history and fantasy that's so unique to Japanese restaurants.

If you're into late-night shopping in Tokyo, check out Shibuya and Harajuku. These neighborhoods, a blend of fashion and otaku culture, offer unique shopping experiences.

Shibuya, known for the bustling Shibuya Crossing, boasts a variety of stores. From luxury brands to local boutiques and otaku havens, don't miss out on Shibuya 109 for the trendiest picks.

A 20 minute walk from Shibuya Crossing, you'll find Harajuku, a hub for one-of-a-kind finds. Takeshita Street, the heart of this area, is teeming with boutiques offering vintage clothes, quirky accessories, and otaku-friendly souvenirs.

But remember, shopping in Shibuya and Harajuku is more than just buying. It's immersing in Tokyo's vibrant fashion and otaku culture. Take it from a local, it's worth the experience!

For those of you looking to balance out the vibrancy of Tokyo at night with a bit of tranquility, I can't recommend a night cruise in Tokyo Bay enough. It gives you a whole different perspective of the city and the nightlife.

From the deck of a cruise ship, you get to experience the magic of Tokyo at night, as the city lights up the night. The cityscape is simply mesmerizing, with all its lights twinkling and reflecting off the bay. The iconic view of the Rainbow Bridge, with its multicolored lights, adds to the vibrant scene of Tokyo at night.

But a night cruise is more than just the stunning city views. It's about the peacefulness that comes with being out on the water amidst the hustle of Tokyo at night. The gentle sound of waves, the cool sea breeze - it's a welcome break from the fast pace of city life.

So, if you're looking for an experience that's as serene as it is beautiful, consider spending an evening on a Tokyo Bay cruise. Experiencing Tokyo at night from this vantage point is a truly memorable way to see the city.

If you're looking for something uniquely Tokyo, I'd recommend attending a baseball game at the Tokyo Dome, where the Yomiuri Giants play. It's not just about the sport; it's a way to dive into Japan's deep-seated passion for baseball.

When you're there, you'll find the crowd's energy is absolutely infectious. The cheers are perfectly timed, and the atmosphere is just electric. You'll see fans singing team anthems, and vendors weaving through the stands with bento boxes and drinks.

Even if you don't speak Japanese or aren't typically a baseball fan, you'll feel a part of it all. The sense of community and the thrill in the air make this more than just a game - it's an unforgettable piece of Tokyo's culture.

If you're keen on a unique taste of Tokyo's famous nightlife spots and entertainment, I'd recommend stepping into one of the city's pachinko parlors. Filled with the bright neon lights flashing and chiming sounds of vertical pinball-style machines, it's an iconic piece of Tokyo's pop culture.

Playing pachinko is a mix of luck and skill, and it can add a uniquely enjoyable twist to your Tokyo experience. Whether you're up for giving it a go or just prefer to soak up the lively atmosphere, a trip to a pachinko parlor promises an interesting encounter.

Just keep in mind, as with any game, it's all about enjoying the experience while maintaining moderation. So, have fun, but always play responsibly!

If you share my intrigue for Japanese whiskey, I'd highly recommend bar-hopping focused on whiskey tasting. You see, it's not just about the sip, It's about the entire narrative that comes with each glass - from the heritage of the distilleries, the crafting process, to the differing aging techniques, each with their own distinct flavor profiles.

One of my personal favorites for a unique whiskey experience is The Mash Tun in Meguro. It's a cozy, authentic spot with an incredible selection of Scotch and Japanese whiskies. There's no snobbery here; just genuine, friendly folks who are passionate about sharing their love of whiskey. They'll guide you through an unforgettable tasting, no matter your experience level. Swing by The Mash Tun for the ultimate whiskey bar hopping adventure in Tokyo. It's sure to add a flavor-packed highlight to your trip!

If you happen to catch cherry blossom season in Tokyo, I can't recommend enough a stroll along the Meguro River. The place is just enchanting, with hundreds of cherry trees in full bloom lining the river. It's a great sight during the day, but trust me, it's the night when the magic truly happens. The illuminated cherry blossoms cast this surreal glow on the river that you just have to see for yourself.

Plus, it's more than just the blossoms. The whole area buzzes with life – food stalls serving local snacks and drinks pop up, and you see people just walking and marveling under the sakura trees. I mean, who wouldn't? It's a sight to behold.

So, if you're around during sakura season, a nighttime walk along the Meguro River is something you wouldn't want to miss. It's one of those few things to do in tokyo at night that just perfectly encapsulates the beauty of Tokyo – a bit of nature's charm smack in the middle of city life.

If you're exploring Tokyo at night, don't miss out on a visit to the Tokyo Tower. Trust me, this iconic red and white symbol of the city is a sight to behold when it's all lit up against the night sky.

But the beauty of Tokyo Tower isn't just about admiring it from a distance. You've got to go up to the observation deck. From there, you get this sweeping view of the city, with thousands of lights as far as the eye can see.

I have visited the Tokyo Tower during daylight hours, and it is certainly a sight to behold. Moreover, you could even go to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in the daytime for equally breathtaking views at no cost. However, the nighttime spectacle from the Tokyo Tower is in a league of its own. The illuminated skyline against the tranquil backdrop of darkness is simply entrancing.

So, here's a suggestion: if you want to end your evening in Tokyo on a high note, take a trip up the Tokyo Tower. It's a memory you won't easily forget.

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15 Places to Visit for the Best Tokyo Views at Night

Do you want to see the best views of Tokyo at night?

Today, we’re going to show you exactly where to go for incredible views of the city.

These includes the number towers, high-rise buildings, Ferris wheels and even some fancy bars.

Read on to find out where you can get access to see Tokyo light up at night.

Table of Contents

1. Tokyo Tower

Painted in a shade of bright orange and balanced with white, Tokyo Tower is known to evoke an awe-inspiring feeling in people.

It is the second tallest structure in Japan and at 333 meters, it is 13 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and has earned the bragging rights.

After WWII, the tower has become somewhat of a patriotic symbol, and locals and tourists flock to the observation deck to view the panoramas of the city.

To access the top deck, reservations are required.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-11pm
• Address: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

Check Tickets Official site

Where to Stay

Featuring stunning interiors and a chic brickwork facade, Prince Hotel Tokyo is the closest place to stay near Tokyo Tower

You can take a night stroll in the park and also see Zojoji Temple at night.

After a long day of site seeing, Prince Hotel Tokyo will provide the best overnight sleep before you do more exploring the next day.

Check Rooms

2. Tokyo Skytree

The imperial city’s glittering lights and vibrant nights are best witnessed from Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest structures in the world.

Reaching the magnificent height of 634m, Skytree has become the world’s tallest ‘free-standing tower’.

Futuristic designs of circular corridors, triangles and silvery metallic mesh open onto two observation decks; Tembō Deck, the lower observatory at 350m; and Tembō Galleria, the upper observatory at 450m.

From the decks, views as far as 100km are visible during the day including the sweeping vistas of iconic Mount Fuji.

Purchase the tickets from 4th floor, get into the glass elevator and watch the city grow smaller as you go up.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 8am-10pm
• Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan

3. Tokyo City View Observatory & Sky Deck at Roppongi Hills

If you ever want to gaze at Tokyo’s panoramas including the tallest towers and Mt Fuji, make a beeline for Tokyo City View in Roppongi.

It has an indoor observation gallery sitting at the height of 250 meters above sea level affording bird’s eye vistas of the entire city.

From balmy afternoons to the dusk settling over the mountains, the tower is able to channel different dynamics of the city day and night.

At the observatory, guests also have access to the Mori Art Museum which is situated one floor above the deck.

The museum is a must-visit and features a variety of critically acclaimed exhibitions and displays.

• Opening Hours:  Observatory daily 10am-11pm; Skydeck daily 10am-8pm weather permitting

4. Seaside Top Observatory

Seaside Top Observatory is yet another popular spot in the city to take in the breathtaking views of Tokyo particularly during the sunset.

The observation deck is located on the fortieth floor of the World Trade Center near the Hamamatsu-cho subway station.

Compared to other towers, Seaside Top Observatory sits at only 152m, but don’t underestimate it.

Sunsets, twilight, and velvety nighttime are the best times to head to the observatory and enjoy the sweeping views of Tokyo including Tokyo Tower.

Look down and you will see the magnificent Kyu-Shiba Rikyu Gardens and a sparkling Ferris Wheel in Kasai can also be spotted in the distance.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10am-8:30pm
• Address: Tokyo World Trade Center; 2-chōme-4 Hamamatsuchō, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0013, Japan

Check Tickets

5. Metropolitan Government Building

Commonly referred to as Tochō, Metropolitan Government Building is noted for its free observation decks in both of its tower.

Let’s not forget it also happens to be the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government that governs pretty much the entire city.

The building is 243 meter tall and decks are the height of 202 meters.

There is a cafe and souvenir store on the decks where guests can hang out.

To catch a glimpse of Tokyo at night time, head over to the North Observatory which opens later at night.

Some of the popular landmarks you can view from Tochō include Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Dome and Mt Fuji.

• Opening Hours: North Observatory daily 9:30am-11pm; South Observatory 9:30am-5:30pm
• Address: 2-8-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 163-8001 Japan

6. Shibuya Sky

If you want unobstructive panoramic vistas of Tokyo, Shibuya Sky is the best spot.

The 360° open-air observation deck is perched on the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square, and is the highest point in Shibuya District.

There is a corner called ‘Sky Edge’ from where you can witness Tokyo’s endless landscapes sprawling all around.

One of the highlights of Shibuya Sky are the hammocks on the rooftop.

Plop down, relax and gaze at the fluffy clouds floating by.

Visitors are provided with an observation compass to identify popular spots like Tokyo Tower and Mt Fuji.

After sunset, see the night skies flood with lights during a glorious light show called the ‘Crossing Light’.

• Address: Japan, 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Shibuya, 2 Chome−24−12 最上階 スクランブルスクエア

Official site

7. Bunkyo Civic Center

Bearing close resemblance to a Pez dispenser, the Bunkyo Civic Center features an observation deck on its 25th floor.

Thanks to its slated windows, the deck offers clear views of the city far and wide.

It doesn’t hurt that it is totally free to access!

From Mount Fuji and sunsets to skyscrapers and crowded streets, the center covers most of Tokyo’s noted landmarks.

Looking through the deck of Bunkyo Civic Center, the surroundings appear unique and imposing.

Tokyo Skytree lights up and illuminates the night skies while Mt Fuji stands magnificently in the background.

Similarly, the rush hour and heavy traffic brighten up the roads when you look from the top.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 9am-8:30pm
• Address: Japan, 〒112-8555 Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Kasuga, 1 Chome−16−21 文京シビックセンター25階

8. Telecom Center Observatory

With a dazzling background of Tokyo’s glittery skyline, and the majestic Odaiba at the forefront, the Telecom Center Observatory beckons you to its 21 st floor.

You can enjoy a 260 degree view of the city skyline and capture many insta-worthy moments with iconic attractions at night, including the Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge.

The sunsets are absolutely breathtaking but nighttime views pierce through the heart with their distinctive charm.

You can also capture some rare shots of the Tokyo Skytree and the famous Ferris Wheel of Palette Town.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 3pm-9:30pm; Weekends 11am-9:30pm
• Address: 2 Chome-5-10 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan

9. SKY CIRCUS Sunshine 60 Observation Deck

On the 60 th floor of this stately skyscraper, visitors can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Tokyo’s enthralling skyline.

The deck is situated at the soaring height of 251 meters above sea level.

It offers a unique angle that soaks up the entire city skyline, creating a stunning snapshot.

Sky Circus Sunshine’s observation desk has stunning 360-degree panoramic views Tokyo at night.

You can spot the Tokyo Sky Tree, Otsuka Station, Tokyo Disney Resort, the Arakawa River, Mt. Tsukuba, and even Mt. Fuji if the weather is kind.

Moreover, it has other interactive experiences as well, such as a VR swing coaster, sky trampoline and Infinitescape.

• Opening Hours:  Daily 10am-10pm
• Address: Sunshine City, 3 Chome-1-1 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0013, Japan

10. Giant Sky Wheel in Palette Town

Japan’s Daikanransha gives a tough competition to London’s Eye with its whimsical charm.

The Giant Sky Wheel in Palette Town is one of the most popular attractions in Odaiba and is a must-have experience when you are in Tokyo.

Hop upon the ride and allow your eyes to feast on all the prominent attractions of the city and a stunningly illuminated view of the bayside region.

The beautifully lit Ferris Wheel offers a even more rewarding experience with its night rides when the city is all glitter and twinkles.

You can see the Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Gate Bridge, Rainbow Bridge and much more.

• Opening Hours:  Sunday to Thursday 10am-10pm; Friday to Saturday 10am-11pm
• Address: 1 Chome-3-10 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan

11. Flowers and Diamonds Ferris Wheel

The second tallest Ferris wheel in the city, and the tallest one in Japan, Flowers and Diamonds Ferris Wheel is named after its unique lights and shapes.

It opened in 2001 in Kasai Rinkai Park in Edogawa and is one of the most popular experiences.

The ride takes you on a quaint journey of stunning nighttime views of the Tokyo skyline that will leave you awestruck with their beauty.

The display of illumination and glittery lights is spellbinding, and you find yourself lost in translation until the ride comes to an end.

You can spot the Tokyo Disney Sea and Land, Chiba, the Boso Peninsula and even Mount Fuji.

• Opening Hours:  Monday to Friday 10am-8pm; Weekend 10am-9pm
• Address: 6 Chome-2 Rinkaicho, Edogawa City, Tokyo 134-0086, Japan

12. The Andaz Hotel’s Rooftop Bar

Welcome to Andaz Hotel Rooftop Bar – the perfect place for a romantic candlelight dinner with a beautifully illuminated Tokyo skyline glittering in the background.

You can enjoy rich wines and delicacies while feasting your eyes on the city’s dazzling display of lights and illumination.

The bar is located on the 52nd floor of the Toranomon Hills skyscraper and it is an ideal escape package with stunning views of the skyline, scrumptious food and a relaxing ambience.

You can spot a wide range of attractions from the rooftop bar including the Tokyo Sky Tree, the Tokyo Bay and much more.

• Opening Hours: Daily 5pm-1am
• Address: 52nd floor Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

13. Sky Lounge Stellar Garden

Sky Lounge Stellar Garden is top-floor lounge at the Prince Park Tower Hotel that combine tea and cocktails with spectacular vistas for a visual delight.

Take a sip of your drink, and rest your eyes on a stunning panorama of the city skyline and lose yourself in the dazzling beauty of the nighttime lights.

The Sky Lounge Stellar Garden is an eclectic and relaxing bar lounge, situated on the 33rd floor.

It is your chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, find the perfect corner to unwind, and calmly gaze at Tokyo Tower.

This destination is highly recommended for intimate dinners as it has a lovely ambience.

• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 5pm-1:30am; Saturday 3pm-1:30am; Sunday 3pm-11:30pm
• Address: 33rd floor, 4 Chome-8-1 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

14. Bellovisto Bar

At Bellovisto Bar, have gourmet appetizers and drinks as you look at Tokyo’s enchanting lights from the 40th floor of the Cerulean Tower.

The bar is a beguiling combination of scenic panoramic views of Tokyo, fancy cocktails and romantic ambience.

Here you can kick back and relax, indulge in lively conversations and gaze at the spectacular beauty of the city laid out before you.

The bar is one of the hippest destinations in the city with a distinctive view of the illuminated skyscrapers of Tokyo.

Bellovisto Bar has classy food which makes it one of the best places to enjoy the city skyline in all its nighttime glory!

• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 4pm-1am; Weekends 1:30pm-1am
• Address: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel; 40th floor, 26-1 Sakuragaokacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-8512, Japan

15. Starbucks to see Shibuya Crossing

Tokyo is dotted with countless Starbucks and famous baristas but this particular Starbucks is incredibly popular because of its perfect view of the chaotic Shibuya Crossing.

As you sip your favorite coffee, watch hundreds of people from all different directions cross this busy intersection.

Starbucks is located on the second floor of Q FRONT Shibuya right above the ever-busy Shibuya station.

It receives scores of people who seek to capture the rush of Shibuya at night and the surrounding buildings.

After taking a few photos of the crossing madness, there’s still plenty of time to shop around at night.

• Opening Hours: Daily 6:30am-2pm
• Address: Q FRONT Shibuya; 21-6 Udagawacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan

All the places mentioned offer unique experiences of Tokyo views at night.

We definitely recommend visiting at least a couple of these famous attractions while you’re in Tokyo.

Make sure you bring a proper camera to snap the best photos of Tokyo at night!

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6 Best Places To Go In Tokyo At Night

By gowithguide travel specialist: amy d..

Things To Do

Tokyo comes to life at night. The best places to experience nightlife in Tokyo are Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, Roppongi and Tokyo Tower. In Tokyo, you can find every thing, from cheap bars and izakayas to fine dining and exclusive clubs. After sunset, there is never a lack of things to do in Tokyo. Sightseeing, partying, dining or chilling out in a bar, there is always something for everyone in this city that never sleeps. Check out this list of top nightlife spots in Tokyo and party till dawn!

1. Kabukicho, Shinjuku

Kabukicho is the notorious red-light district of Tokyo. But don't worry as there is plenty of other entertainment that is more pg rated. Kabukichō is the location of many host and hostess bars, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs, and is often referred to as the sleepless town. No matter what day of the week, Kabukicho is bustling. The famous  Robot restaurant  is also located here, as well as the Godzilla statue, which watches over Shinjuku.

Kabukicho gained notoriety for its connection to the Yakuza gang. This causes many people to believe that the area was dangerous. However, this is not the case. Although many hosts and hostess line the streets and try to pull you into their stores, as a foreigner walking through the area, you have nothing to worry about. Just make sure if you are going into any clubs that it is a legitimate establishment and not going to rip you off. I highly recommend just taking some time to stroll through and admire the neon lights.

Location: Shinjuku, East side

Click here for more information.

Shibuya is one of the best nightlife destinations in Tokyo that is particularly popular with young people. It is generally less seedy than Kabukicho and safer. There is a great selection of nightclubs, bars, restaurants and entertainment to keep you partying until the morning in this vibrant Tokyo district. Shibuya is typically more easily accessible to foreigners, and you are much less likely to be scammed here.

Shops in Shibuya often stay open quite late, so it is a great spot to hit up some late night shopping at malls such as Shibuya 109. There are also many themed restaurants located here, such as the Alice in Wonderland café.

3.  Shinjuku Golden Gai (Golden Street)

Shinjuku’s hole-in-the-wall, with 200 bars and restaurants squeezed into a maze of narrow streets Golden Gai is a postwar black market and prostitution area that was transformed into a village of watering holes. Tiny shops are packed into the labyrinth of alleys. The dimly-lit neon brings a nostalgic air. Tokyo’s busiest commercial district of Shinjuku is divided into various areas with their own character. There is the shopping area which attracts the young, the area of soaring office skyscrapers and the pleasure area of cabarets and clubs. Among them, on a side street a block away from the boulevard lined with showy buildings and department stores next to Hanazono Shrine at Kabukicho 1-chome lies Shinjuku Golden Gai. Click here for more information

Phone 03-3209-6418

4. Roppongi

Roppongi is the district, most popular nightlife district in Tokyo with foreigners. The streets of Roppongi are lined with foreign touts trying to bring you into their clubs and bars. Roppongi is an expensive area with many high class bars and restaurants. However, you must exercise caution in this area since many people get scammed here. Many foreign visitors have been scammed here by Nigerion bar owners who charge crazy prices for drinks.  Don't let this deter you from coming here, though. As long as you avoid the people trying to offer you deals on the streets, you shouldn't have any problems. It is one of the most upscale districts of Tokyo. Roppongi is packed with dance clubs, upscale bars, strip joints and dive bars. This is the place where both Japanese and non-Japanese, desperate to let loose, come to mingle. 

Ginza is the best are to experience sophisticated and upscale nightlife in Tokyo. If you want to enjoy fine dining and high class bars, then Ginza is the spot for you. After shopping, Ginza is best known for its nightlife, which includes bars, lounges and nightclubs. They are typically small venues that attract a decidedly fashionable and mature crowd. 

Ginza is also one of the best places to see neon in Tokyo. The streets are transformed into a light show after dark as the bars and clubs start to open their doors. Ginza also has a red-light district of mostly high class hostess clubs. 

However, it is important to note that some places here are on the more expensive side and not as easily accessible to foreigners who cannot speak Japanese, so it is better if you come with a Japanese person if you wish to properly experience nightlife in Ginza.

6.  Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower was built as a radio broadcast tower in 1958, during a point in time when television began to spread throughout Japan. The construction costs of the tower were immense, at over 3 billion yen. The tower was built during a time when Tokyo started flourishing economically, and since then, it has become a symbol and landmark for the rapid industrial growth of the city.   Click here for more information.

Business hours - Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 10:00 PM ) Phone 03-3433-5111 Price - Adult: 1600 JPY - Child: 1000 JPY Website www.tokyotower.co.jp/en/

Ready To Plan Your Itinerary For Tokyo?

Spending time in Tokyo can be daunting, especially if you are not familiar with the language, transportation, or culture. Whether it is spending helping with navigation or convenience, I recommend  GoWithGuide , as they have over 1,000 professional tour guides that can help you navigate Tokyo efficiently while eliminating the risk of getting lost. Not only that, but the guides are all experts in their local areas, so you would be able to receive  customized itineraries  with whatever you want to specifically do or see in the city. Tokyo can be quite crowded in many of these areas, so if you are not willing to make the trek to any of the above locations via public transportation but still want to experience the city's wonders, check out the  private car tours  that are offered, and feel free to send a message to any of the  local Tokyo guides  for more information about planning your trip. If you're short on time or still unsure, feel free to send us here at GoWithGuide a Tour Request .

Furthermore, if none of the above locations are aligned with what you want to do in Tokyo or if you already have some locations you want to go to, you should check out some of the  cultural activities  that are happening in the city as there are so many more interesting and fun events to partake in that will make your trip the most memorable trip you've had!

Finally, before you can travel safely, why not check out the Online Virtual Tours, that the guide will take you to the places you want to visit through the screen, and let you sample the tour to save time and cost. Here is one of the virtual tours that can be customized to your request: Online - Live Zoom Tour in Tokyo

Aside from our top rated tours in Japan, we are now also expanding to more countries all over the globe!

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Hello, my name is Yasuro (Mr). I was born and brought up in Kansai, graduated from a univ in Kobe city, after moved into Kanto, 30 years in Tokyo, 2.5 years in Nagoya city, 7.5 years abroad (KL & S'pore) as a rep of a construction company and I got the National Guide Certificate in 2011. My hobbies are making Haiku poems, singing various songs (voice-training for 18 years), playing the folk-guitar, trekking in mountains like Takao and Okutama in the West of Tokyo, visiting museums like in Ueno Park and travelling around Japan to make Haiku poems. Thank you for your attention.                                                                                                                                  

I’m so excited to have a chance to show you around my favorite spots in Kanagawa prefecture. I was born in Kanagawa. I spent my whole school life, including university, here in Kanagawa. I worked as a high school English teacher here for 40 years. I love Kanagawa so much. We have many interesting tourist spots, like Hakone, Kamakura, Enoshima and Yokohama. I got my tour guide license in English in 2009. I am still an English teacher. To give an interesting and impressive lesson to young high school students, I’ve learnt and gathered many kinds of information. I also have a license to teach social studies, so I have a wide range of knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I’m sure to provide you an interesting tour.                                                                                                                                  

My name is Grant I lived more than 10 years in Japan. I graduated University and translation school in Tokyo. I am fluent in Japanese. I have a degree in Asian studies and have expert-level knowledge of Japanese culture and history. I have memorized the JR rail system across all of Japan, I use the same train timetable calculators as the station staff, and I have experience using bullet train passes that are exclusive to foreign visitors. I can optimally navigate the Tokyo underground and maximize value from a Tokyo metro pass and also understand Tokyo above ground which will allow for seamless transitions between different metro stations and landmarks with minimal backtracking. *There will be a price revision at the end of June* My tour fee is Half-Day Tour: 20,000yen for 1-5hours Full-Day Tour: 40,000yen for 5-10hours The time transiting to and from your hotel for pick up or drop off within Tokyo 23wards does not count towards the time. I am also able to guide historical sites and cities such as Kyoto, Kanazawa, Nikko, and Kamakura on request if you pay my rail fare.                                                                                                                                  

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Best things to do in Tokyo at night if you're not drinking – updated

Nightlife in Tokyo is more than just the bars and clubs. Here are some top late-night booze-free activities that don't involve drinking

Photo: teamLab

Given up drinking, or just not a fan of the bar and club scene? Good news: sobriety doesn't mean boredom when the sun goes down in Tokyo. There are late-night museums , sushi joints that open round-the-clock, sports centres where you can work out a sweat at 10pm, bathhouses that stay open through the night, and more fun things to do even when you're avoiding the watering holes of Ginza and Shinjuku. Here are some of our favourite nighttime activities in Tokyo.

RECOMMENDED: Best night views in Tokyo

Late-night attractions

Tokyo city view.

• Attractions
• Sightseeing

Since Tokyo is so orderly, it’s hard to tell just how dense the metropolis is – until you see it from above. At Toky City View’s rooftop Sky Deck, you’ll be confronted with the immensity of the capital, a sprawling urban jigsaw of tightly squeezed buildings stretching all the way to the horizon. It’s a breathtaking experience up here, and quite literally so as you’ll be walking along the (barricaded) edges of the rooftop – but keep your eyes on the prize and spot all the iconic landmarks including Tokyo Tower and Skytree as well as Tokyo Bay in the distance.

Tokyo is especially enchanting come nightfall when the lights are on, and we can understand if you want to spend more time soaking up the view. So stay: when the Sky Deck closes at 8pm, head down a few levels to the observation deck on the 52nd floor and you can continue to stare into the mesmerising vista until 1am (on Friday, Saturday and holiday eve). Who needs a drink when the views are this intoxicating?

teamLab Planets Tokyo

• Mixed media

While this temporary teamLab museum doesn’t contain as many works of art as the permanent Borderless over in Odaiba, the smaller crowds here make this a much more leisurely experience, and there’s also the bonus of a later closing time. But rest assured, this is still iconically teamLab, with digital art installations that are not just interactive and immersive but also tactile and sensorial.

You are to explore the museum barefooted: walking up a slope through running water, treading knee-deep in a pond with digital koi fish swimming around you, lumbering across a room whose floor feels like one giant bean bag... They’re all designed to make you more aware of your own body, especially how it moves across different surfaces. In one surreal installation, you’ll even feel like you’re spinning around an ‘outer space’ of larger-than-life flowers. It’s like you’ve fallen through a rabbit hole into a trippy, psychedelic dimension – no, you’re not hallucinating, not even the least bit inebriated.

Samurai Museum

The samurai has been an iconic symbol of courage, power and masculinity for over 700 years of Japanese warfare history. Finally, the gripping soul of the samurai can be felt at this Samurai Museum in Shinjuku. The well designed interior covers two floors, showcasing a wide array of samurai costumes, head gear, guns, swords and other related equipment. The highlight is a chance to have yourself photographed in a samurai costume of your choice...

Daikanyama T-Site Tsutaya

In a perfect world, all bookshops would be like this. Tokyo's Klein Dytham Architecture won an award at the World Architecture Festival for their work on Daikanyama T-Site, which is spread across three interlinked buildings adorned with lattices of interlocking Ts. That 'T' stands for rental chain Tsutaya, whose seemingly bottomless pockets helped fund the kind of book emporium that most capital cities can only dream of. It's easy to lose hours thumbing through the selections here, which include a good range of English-language titles, art books, antique tomes and magazine back issues. There are also music and DVD sections as well as branches of Starbucks and Family Mart, while you'll find specialist camera, bicycle and pet shops elsewhere in the complex.

Purikura no Mecca

Derived from ‘purinto kurabu’ (literally ‘Print Club’, the photo booth brand that started this trend), purikura are a phenomenon in their own right: photobooth prints in which you can make yourself look infinitely cuter, creating an almost Japanese pop idol-esque version of yourself. You’ll find these booths at most large arcades, where a set of photos goes for ¥300 to ¥500. But if you want to experience the full range, head to Shibuya’s Purikura no Mecca. This famous spot has an extraordinary variety of these machines on offer, and it's open round the clock.

Tokyo Shooting Gallery

• Arcades and amusements

Step back in time and file on your marksmanship at this unique shooting gallery located right next to Shinjuku’s Golden Gai. With its tiny tiled roof, wood sliding door and red lanterns, the facade looks like it came straight from a movie out of the Showa era (1926–1989). Grab an air gun for ¥500 and show off your skills at a typical shooting game popular during Japanese festivals. Don’t worry, you won’t leave empty handed − pick up your prizes which are based on the points you earn during the game before you head on out. 

Shinjuku Copa Bowl

• Sport and fitness

If you thought ten-pin bowling was passé, check out this late night bowling alley that's livened up the game with 'Fantasic Lanes' featuring sound and lighting. Located a five minutes' walk from Shinjuku Station, this boisterous bowling alley is the perfect spot to let out a little steam after a rowdy night out on the town. Aside from bowling, the space also features a ping pong area, darts and a food concession stand if you start to get the munchies. 

Adidas Futsal Park

There’s no beating the location of this singularly picturesque football pitch: it sits atop the Tokyu Toyoko department store, right next to Shibuya Station. Adidas Futsal Park opened in 2001, in the run-up to the FIFA World Cup that Japan and South Korea co-hosted the following year, and it's been doing a strong trade ever since. Prices start at ¥5,250 per hour for teams that are members (¥8,400 for teams that aren't), rising to over ¥20,000 for 1.5 hours at peak times.

B-Bump Akihabara

This climbing gym has daily lessons for beginners who'd like to learn more about bouldering or rope climbing, and also features training sessions for first-timers and children. It's a great place to find new climbing buddies – no reservations are required, and all classes are free of charge (except for registration and entrance fees). Finally, the blacklight-decorated 'Space Wall' will remind you that you're still in Akihabara after all. The same company also operates a gym in Ogikubo.

Asakusa Batting Stadium

Blow off some steam after work by swinging at mechanical pitches or perfect your fastball in the bullpen – this batting centre is instantly recognisable by the giant glove above the entrance and stays open until 1am every day.

Late-night spas and sento

• Health and beauty
• Saunas and baths

Edoyu is a slick, modern and design-focused super sento (bathhouse). In fact, it looks, feels and operates like a luxurious spa. The bathing area is especially gorgeous, what with the contemporary Mt Fuji mosaic wall presiding over many different types of bath: hot, cold, jacuzzi, herbal and carbonated. On top of that, you’ll also find two types of sauna – a Finnish version and a mid-temperature one that’s about 75ºC (the women’s section has a steam aroma sauna instead). There’s even two options for the waterless bedrock bathing, where you lie in a heated room, on a slab of natural stone to promote blood circulation and metabolism. However, that’s not all you can do here. Spread across multiple levels, with a dedicated floor each for men and women, Edoyu also offers a restaurant, a café and lots of quiet corners, relaxation lounges and nap-inducing recliners, with free wi-fi throughout. It’s the perfect place to unplug and just be idle. There’s no need to rush when you get there: Edoyu is open through the night until 9am.

The impressive spa complex in Kabukicho is apparently inspired by the popular Thermae Romae series of manga and movies. Open 24 hours every day, Thermae-Yu features hot spring baths and rotenburo – supplied with onsen water from Izu daily – stone saunas, a full-on beauty salon, scrub treatments and a lounge complete with a café, bar and restaurant. Sounds like the perfect spot for relaxation after a long night out in Shinjuku.

Times Spa Resta

One of the classiest spa complexes in central Tokyo, Spa Resta occupies an unlikely location: floors 10 to 12 of the Times Station parking garage and car rental facility in Ikebukuro. Don't let that get in your way though, as this spot is perfect for a long, lazy day of soaking, eating and relaxing. The men's side has a wide range of baths, a Finnish-style sauna, rotenburo and even a terrace area with deck chairs, while women can look forward to an open-air jacuzzi, a 'clear mist' sauna complete with refreshing aroma, and other beauty-enhancing facilities...

In many ways, LaQua feels more like a 'super sento' than an onsen. This sprawling bathhouse inside the Tokyo Dome City complex uses sodium-chloride-enriched hot spring water drawn from 1,700m underground, which is said to help circulation and relieve muscle ache, neuralgia and arthritis. In addition to an open-air rotenburo and foaming massage bath, the complex has three types of sauna, including an unusual rock salt one that's supposed to be good for improving metabolism. Spa LaQua is open all night, though note that there's a surcharge if you stay past 1am...

• Things to do

This popular public bath was established in 1949 and since its major renovation in 2010, it now attracts more guests due to its unique wall paintings. Inside, women can look forward to a large image of Mt Fuji fronted by Tokyo Skytree, Senso-ji Temple’s iconic Kaminarimon-gate and Sumida River, rounded off by a broom-riding witch in the upper left corner of the mural. The bathing area for men, on the other hand, sees nearly the same composition but topped off with an image of Godzilla (we're not kidding!) peeking over the mountain into the bath. In spring, the bathhouse is even more photogenic as the traditional architecture is surrounded by dozens of blooming wisteria flowers...

Late-night restaurants

Parfaiteria momobukuro.

An influence from the Hokkaido capital city of Sapporo in northern Japan, parfaits are gaining traction as a night-time indulgence in Tokyo, and it’s just perfect for the teetotaling nightowl. This Sapporo parfait specialist is known for its gravity-defying creations. They are the Jenga block of desserts, with no fewer than 12 elements from jelly and ice cream of many different flavours to tuiles and cookies and fresh fruit balancing precariously on top of one another. These pretty ensembles play right into the feed of the Instagram generation, but the bigger joy lies in discovering the varying tastes and textures among the different layers.

Uogashi Nihon-ichi Shibuya Dogenzaka

• price 1 of 4

You’ll find this chain standing sushi bar in a few areas around Tokyo, including its newly reopened outlet in Shibuya Dogenzaka. The best part about visiting this joint is watching the sushi chefs up close as they whip up your order at lightning speed. There’s an English menu – or you can just point to the seafood you recognise at the counter. Apart from Dogenzaka, there are branches all over town, including in Kyobashi, Akihabara, Kojimachi, Kichijoji, Asakusabashi and Akasaka.

Yakiniku Gen-Chan

If you’re craving tender, juicy grilled slices of meat 24 hours around the clock, then this yakiniku joint located in Shinjuku’s lively Kabukicho district is your place to go. Open daily from 7am to 6.30am the next day, this eatery is cherished by a large number of barbecue lovers due to the smoky taste provided by the charcoal grills on each table. The all-you-can-eat course menus range from ¥3,480 for the girls and ¥3,980 for the guys (all-you-can-drink plan included). Choose from more than 70 dishes including their A4-grade meat options and Korean delicacies such as bibimbap...

Onigiri Asakusa Yadoroku

Located just behind Sensoji in Asakusa, Yadoroku is the oldest onigiri specialist in Tokyo. Choose from a range of different toppings including salmon, ume, tarako, shirasu and okaka, all for an affordable ¥280-330. The place stays open until 2am – perfect if you're craving a late-night snack.

Sushi Zanmai (Shibuya east exit branch)

Sushi Zanmai's main branch is in Tsukiji, where visitors can whet their appetites with a tuna-butchering show, but it also has two restaurants in Shibuya: one close to Tokyu Honten Department Store and another opposite the east exit of Shibuya Station. Covering two floors, the latter boasts a more easy-going atmosphere than its siblings, and stays open 24 hours a day, year-round.

Gyoza Hohei

Sister shop to their ever-popular Kyoto-based restaurant, this is the perfect spot to get your late-night gyoza fix as most nights it's open till an early 3am. The Kyoto-born shop is best known for their signature dumplings stuffed with a savoury garlic and leek filling and crisp exterior, but their ginger gyoza which contains no garlic or onion are a popular alternative for those who are wary about serious garlic breath.

Late-night coffee

Fuglen asakusa.

The original Fuglen coffee shop in Tokyo looks like it came straight out of the pages of Monocle magazine; its second outlet, opened last year under the Nine Hours capsule hotel in Asakusa, doubles down on that mod Scandinavian aesthetic. The space is bigger too, with two floors of comfy seating, a communal table made for digital nomads, plus nooks and crannies perfect for chilling out. More importantly, it is one of the very few cafés in the city that opens till late, 2am on Friday and Saturday. Fuglen Asakusa is also a place to which you can bring your imbibing friends along: they can peruse the small selection of craft beer and cocktails (we love the ginger daiquiri) while you stick to tea, coffee or even a glass of warm milk with honey.

• Shinjuku-Sanchome
• price 2 of 4

Furnished in a Western style that's both ostentatious and deeply ersatz, this café dispenses cups of siphon coffee 24 hours a day, at prices ranging from higher-than-average (¥800 for the Kizoku original blend) to eye-watering (Royal Blend, ¥3,000). That said, you can normally get a couple of cups out of each pot of coffee, while the free Wi-Fi will have you linger a little longer.

Sarutahiko Coffee

• Coffeeshops

Ebisu's dinkiest coffee spot feature seating for twenty-five people, and while most of the customers seem to be getting takeaway when we visit, the chill-out soundtrack encourages us to linger a little longer. The owner got his start in drip coffee, which is available with five varieties of bean; he also makes espresso drinks on a Synesso machine. The best part is, this café is within walking distance from Ebisu station and it's open until 12.30am daily.

Unir Akasaka

Coffee shops in Tokyo tend to open late (usually after 10am) and close early, which kind of defeats the point of caffeine – to help wake you up in the morning, or to help keep you awake at night. But coming to the rescue is Unir, where you can get your caffeine fix any time of the day or night. Located on the first floor of the fittingly titled Hotel Innsomnia Akasaka, this smart, slick speciality coffee haunt offers espresso, French press brews, granola and excellent pastries.

Late-night shopping

Don quijote shibuya.

It's a special kind of retail chaos at Don Quijote, an odds-and-sods shop that stays open 24 hours a day, year round. The floors are crammed with a bewildering selection of products – from groceries and liquor to brand goods, fancy dress and sex toys – most of them squeezed into disorderly, narrow aisles that are unlikely to appeal to the more claustrophobic shopper. However, it's the best place to stock up on souvenirs, Japan-exclusive snacks and daily necessities any time of the day.

• Ikejiri-Ohashi

Specialising in basic but stylish secondhand clothing from the '80s and '90s, Aobadai's Tam is where to pick up brand sweaters at as low as ¥6,000. You'll also want to check out their original button-down shirts and inspiring import selection, which faithfully reflects current trends. Make your purchase after 9pm and get 10 percent off.

More things to do in Tokyo

88 things to do in tokyo.

Discover the city with our ultimate checklist of the best things to do and things to see in Tokyo, from museums and tours to restaurants and bars

Prefer to go drinking instead?

The best tokyo bars with a view.

Get a taste of the high life at these fine establishments

Best cocktail bars in Tokyo

• Cocktail bars

Whether you fancy a classic drink or the kind of creative concoction you’d only ever find in Tokyo, these cocktail bars are the best in the city

Best cheap bars in Tokyo

Forget happy hours with their pesky time restrictions, these cheap ‘one-coin’ bars serve drinks for just ¥500 or less all night long

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Tokyo By Night: 14 Best Izakayas To Visit

• Key takeaways:
• Tokyo has a wide variety of izakayas, which are popular with locals for after-work drinks and affordable snacks.
• Each izakaya has its own unique offerings, from grilled fish with miso dressing to seafood creations and straw-roasted cuisine.
• Visitors can experience a lively and authentic night out in Tokyo by visiting traditional izakayas in different neighborhoods.

Tokyo is a vibrant city with many different wards or districts to explore. Of all the interesting facts about Tokyo , one that many tourists don't actually know is that each part of the city has a distinct vibe that makes it unique and draws crowds for a specific reason.

For example, Shinjuku is the heart of Tokyo’s nightlife scene, while the temple-filled area of Asakusa retains the feeling of a historic Tokyo. Japan's capital is also known for its food scene, from the many quirky cafés in Tokyo to vending machine meals and goodies to traditional bars. Head to these traditional bars (Izakayas) across various neighborhoods for a lively night in Tokyo.

UPDATE: 2023/11/07 16:41 EST BY LUANA FERREIRA

More Fun Izakayas In Tokyo

Tokyo has countless izakayas, and the best ones are often hidden in alleys of busy neighborhoods. They are the place locals often go after work to drink and eat affordable snacks and dishes. This list has been expanded to add four more popular izakayas.

RELATED: Shop Till You Drop: The Most Iconic Vintage Shops In Tokyo

Sasagin, Shimbashi

Shimbashi is home to several old-school izikayas, such as Sasagin . Guests may encounter groups of business people smoking outside when entering the place. This izakaya serves many grilled fishes topped with miso dressed that can be paired with many outstanding sakes—no, they are not all the same.

There is a large selection of beer for those who are not fans of sake. They are prepared to welcome foreign customers, and the menu is also in English.

• Address : Japan, 〒151-0064 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Uehara, 1 Chome−32−15 第二小林ビル

Shimbashi Shimizu

Shimbashi Shimizu is a classic and inviting izakaya located in the Minato-ku, a special ward in Tokyo. This traditional establishment offers various grilled dishes, including yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other savory options.

While it caters to a range of budgets, it generally falls in the mid-price range. Visitors will find a lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. Sake, shochu, and beer are popular drink choices to accompany the delectable grilled fare. Shimbashi Shimizu promises a quintessential izakaya experience in the heart of Tokyo.

• Address : 2 Chome-15-10 Shinbashi, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan

Most tourists won't pay attention to a small izakaya in an alley in the Shibuya area. The Toridosi Shibuya is a discreet izakaya, but guests are impressed by its menu, which offers grilled chicken and tasty meaty gyoza wings. The dishes can be paired with seasonal fruit drinks.

Reviews praise the service and the grilled chicken leg served in the izakaya. As it's not a popular place among tourists, it is also the chance to blend with locals and have a typical experience.

Address : Japan, 〒150-0043 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Dogenzaka, 1 Chome−13−3 ＭＳＴ道玄坂 3F

Kaikaya by the Sea, Shibuya

Kaikaya by the Sea in Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district is a seafood lover's haven. This renowned izakaya-style restaurant is celebrated for its delectable and inventive seafood creations, showcasing the finest catch from local fishermen. However, guests can also find great meat options.

This place is strongly committed to sustainability and guarantees freshness and quality in every dish. From exquisite sashimi to expertly grilled fish, the menu offers diverse seafood delights. The cozy and inviting ambiance adds to the charm, making it a beloved spot for Tokyoites and visitors seeking a memorable seafood dining experience in the city's heart.

Address : 23-7 Maruyamacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0044, Japan

Ebisu Yokocho Alley, Shibuya

Ebisu Yokocho is not a specific Izakaya but rather an alley full of traditional Izakayas in Shibuya. It’s a covered alleyway in southwest Tokyo with retro lighting and neon signs that are sure to give travelers a memorable night out.

• Address: 1 Chome-7-4 Ebisu, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0013, Japan

RELATED: 16 Japanese Cities To Visit Besides Tokyo And Kyoto

Ginza Toriko, Ginza

Ginza Toriko is a lively Izakaya and yakitori restaurant in Tokyo worth visiting at least once on a trip to the city. It’s open daily from 5 PM to 9 PM (except Sundays) and is the perfect place to spend an evening socializing with new friends or fellow travelers.

• Address: Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6 Chome−3−11 西銀座ビル ５階

Related: This Is What A Perfect 48 Hours In Tokyo Looks Like

Shinsuke Izakaya, Ueno

Shinsuke Izakaya is a traditional style Japanese Izakaya in the heart of Tokyo’s Ueno district. The kind-hearted staff makes the experience special for travelers, and as a bonus, they serve an excellent selection of Sake. Like most Izakayas in Tokyo, Shinsuke opens in the evening around 4 PM and closes at 8:30 PM.

• Address: Japan, 〒113-0034 Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Yushima, 3 Chome−31−5 YUSHIMA3315ビル

Warayakiya, Roppongi

This highly-rated Tokyo Izakaya is located in Roppongi and specializes in straw-roasted cuisine. The unique cooking style requires roasting the dishes over flames that are burning from straw. With straw-roasting, the dishes are seared all over so that the umami (Japanese word for sense of deliciousness) is trapped in the food and creates a rich flavor.

The open-air kitchen and bar counter seating allow guests to enjoy a drink while watching the artful preparation of their meal at this Izakaya. It’s definitely a unique place to hang out for a night out in Tokyo. It deserves a spot on any itinerary for travelers visiting the bustling city, whether for a week or a long layover in Tokyo .

• Address: Japan, 〒106-0032 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 6 Chome−8−8 六本木ゴーディビル 1F

Although some people don't suggest visiting Tokyo , there are ways to make it feel less touristy and more authentic.

Uoshin Nogizaka, Akasaka

Uoshin Nogizaka is another fantastic Izakaya option in Tokyo, this time in the rich neighborhood of Akasaka. It’s easy to walk there from the Nogizaka subway station. In addition to serving traditional Japanese tavern drinks and snacks and have incredible seafood.

• Address: 9 Chome-6-32 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan

Andy's Shin Hinomoto, Yurakucho

Andy’s Shin Hinomoto is a relaxed atmosphere for hanging out with friends in Yurakucho, Tokyo. The Izakaya is low-key and sells a variety of beers and shareable Japanese plates. They’ve been in business for over 70 years and even offer cooking classes as a fun activity while visiting the city.

• Address: 2 Chome-4-4 Yurakucho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0006, Japan

Related: 20 Surprising Things You Can Find In Tokyo's Narita Airport

Torikizoku, Shibuya

Torikizoku Shibuya Inokashira Street is a beautiful restaurant to visit in Shibuya, Tokyo, for dinner or drinks in the evening. The Izakaya serves traditional Japanese pub foods and has bar seating and a capacity to seat 65 people at tables . Reservations can be made online in advance to ensure visitors get a seat at this popular place to dine and drink in the city.

• Address: 31-3 Udagawacho 3rd Tanaka Building 3F, Shibuya 150-0042 Tokyo Prefecture

Namikibashi Nakamura Honten, Shibuya

Namikibashi Nakamura Honten is a trendy Izakaya in the bustling neighborhood of Shibuya. High-concept cuisine and a bar-style counter make this a fun place to indulge in Japanese shareable plates and drinks. This Izakaya opens around 5-5:30 PM and closes at 11:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays.

• Address: Japan, 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Shibuya, 3 Chome−13−5 Bprレジデンス渋谷 2階B

Shirubee, Kitazawa

The cover charge makes Shirubee a more expensive option than some other Izakayas in Tokyo, but it’s worth the price for the incredible experience. The charming interior of this Izakaya is inviting and comfortable. Guests are seated on the floor and must respectfully remove their shoes before sitting.

There is a bar counter where visitors can watch the chefs prepare food and drinks. The Izakaya serves shareable Japanese plates plus a wide selection of drinks. Like many Izakayas in Tokyo, it’s open only until 11:30 PM, with the busiest evening peaking around 9 PM.

• Address: 2 Chome-18-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan

RELATED: 10 Iconic And Instagram-Worthy Spots To Snap A Pic In Tokyo

Gonpachi Nishi Azabu, Roppongi

Gonapachi Nishi Azabu is a historic Japanese Izakaya in Tokyo with a gorgeous interior design reflecting its storied past. There is live entertainment at the venue, and it is open way later than many Izakayas in Tokyo, with doors open until 3:30 AM.

• Address: 1 Chome-13-11 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031, Japan

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Insights > Guide to Tokyo: The Best Places to Eat, Stay and Explore

Guide to Tokyo: The Best Places to Eat, Stay and Explore

If Tokyo or Japan is atop your bucket list, these last few years may have felt even longer than usual. Japan was among the last countries to fully reopen and even when it did, ways to get there remained very limited. Brush that off and fuggedaboutit, as they say! 

Japan is always en vogue, flights are back and points availability is too, so it’s time to say konichiwa to Japan, and we’ve got all the tips to get you there and to make your time in Tokyo unforgettable with this city guide.

point.me to a great Tokyo hotel

As a key business hub, major hotel programs thrive in Tokyo with points or cash prices for all tastes. World Of Hyatt fans will love the Andaz. Marriott Bonvoy – you can’t go wrong with the Edition, Prince Gallery, Westin and Mesm. And – Hilton – the Conrad, ain’t shabby either!

For something fun and different though, the Trunk Hotel is a fabulous and eclectic experience with a more local focus, and it’s right next to the shops of Jingumae. 

point.me to a great Tokyo bar

For tastes you’ll only find in Japan, with eccentricity out of a Wes Anderson movie, Bar High Five is a true delight. For a taste of this majestic city, the cherry blossom, shiso, gin and lemon cocktail is unforgettable. If you can’t get a seat, Bar Benfiddich remains one of the world’s 50 best!

point.me to a great Tokyo meal

For breakfast, you can’t miss Breadworks Omotesando. France has the pastry hype, but this Tokyo establishment challenges that big time. People line up! For dinner, Tonkatsu Hasegawa takes katsu to another level, Sushi Yuu is divine for an expensive “Omg” omakase experience and Kikanbo is the inexpensive ramen meal you’ll never forget, which will fill you for a full day! 

point.me to Tokyo Disney Resort

Arguably the snazziest Disney resort, don’t forget Tokyo Disney Resort as a fun family alternative to the US parks. While Disneyland and Disney World USA ticket prices have increased substantially, you can experience the Tokyo Disney Resort for less than half the daily cost. Go experience the joy of Disney in Tokyo! 

point.me to an amazing Tokyo award flight booking

point.me continues to serve up the rewards heat, so let’s dig into a fabulous award booking to Tokyo found using our self-serve tool ! PS — don’t forget to check Explore too! 

How about $6,640 worth of flights for 142K points and $11? 

This month’s amazing award booking highlights the value of having a diverse points arsenal, as well as Raimee being able to book Singapore Airline’s business class to Japan. Let’s break it down from Los Angeles to Tokyo (and back to LAX). 

Airline Booked: Singapore Airlines and Delta

Class of Service: Economy and Business Class

Points Used: Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards

Total Points Used: 142,000 vs Retail Value: $6,640

Interested in Economy only? This same trip would drop down to 77,500 points roundtrip. Let our self-serve tool do the heavy lifting so you can focus on enjoying Japan.

Here’s to your trip to Tokyo, Raimee!

point.me to a great Tokyo travel tip

A surprising number of Tokyo spots remain cash only. With no sign of that changing any time soon, you’ll want to make the most of your cash withdrawals. And here comes the tip: take money out at the airport. Many ATM machines in Tokyo don’t recognize US cards (you’ll need to find a Post Office or 7/11), but airport machines very much do. Take out all you need in one go, particularly with a no fee ATM card.

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