Yanaka Ginza is a shopping street located on the west side of Nippori Station. Around the 1950s, it naturally developed into a shopping street centered around individual shops. Large-scale redevelopment projects, said to occur only once every 100 years in Tokyo, have been progressing, and old townscapes have become scarce. However, the Yanaka Ginza shopping street cherishes its good old traditions, allowing you to enjoy the untouched retro townscape from back then.
Along the 170-meter street, over 60 shops of various types line up. Yanaka, with its many narrow alleys, is also called the "Cat Town," and you might be able to encounter cats. As a cat lover, this shopping street excites me.
In Yanaka Ginza, bars where you can enjoy drinks are also recommended. Unlike the lively nightlife areas of Shibuya or Shinjuku, you can experience the warmth unique to downtown areas in this town, where people's hearts are closer.
Recommended Bars on the Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street
While the Yanaka shopping street is popular for street foods like croquettes, perfect for food tours, and shops selling cat goods, bars where you can casually stop by during your stroll are also recommended.
This time, I'll introduce some recommended bars on the Yanaka Ginza shopping street.
Some shops are open during the day, so you can drop by to relieve your fatigue from sightseeing.
My recommendation is to immerse yourself in a nostalgic mood while watching the sunset at "Yuyakedandan" and then wrap up the day at a warm downtown bar where you can experience something only available here.
ICHIGOYA: Enjoy Wine
Source: Official website
ICHIGOYA, with its bistro-like stylish exterior, is a wine bar where you can casually enjoy wine for 600 yen per glass.
In addition to six types of wines from around the world carefully selected by the master, you can also enjoy various alcoholic beverages such as beer, whiskey, and cocktails.
They put effort into preparing side dishes that pair well with wine, such as the "Ham and Vegetable Pairing Snacks." The famous "Uonuma Mountain Vegetable Quiche" draws customers as well. You can enjoy conversations with the friendly master and staff while savoring your drinks.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 17:00-21:00 / Fri 17:00-22:30 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 13:00-21:00
・Address: 3-11-12 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo (Tokyo-to Taito-ku Yanaka 3-11-12)
・Phone: 03-3293-7515
・URL: https://ichigoya-yanaka.mystrikingly.com/
CRAFT SAKE STAND Yanaka Junmai-ya
Source: Tabelog
The glass-covered building that catches your eye is "CRAFT SAKE STAND Yanaka Junmai-ya."
Here, you can enjoy CRAFT sake meticulously crafted by artisans from all over Japan. From Japanese sake to highballs and fruit liquors, everything is reasonably priced at 550 yen. They particularly focus on Japanese sake, allowing you to encounter rare varieties.
My recommendation is the "Smoked Bacon Potato Salad," which pairs exquisitely with Japanese sake.
On weekends and holidays, they open as early as 10:30 AM, so you can also enjoy a drink while admiring the shopping street during the day.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 17:00-21:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 10:30-21:00
・Address: 2F Magazan Yanaka, 3-11-11 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo (Tokyo-to Taito-ku Yanaka 3-11-11 Magazan Yanaka 2F)
・URL: https://x.gd/l6nmu
Bar orso
Source: Tabelog
Located along a narrow alley, "Bar orso" is a small hidden bar with around five seats. The owner, who looks just like the illustration on the exterior wall, serves heartfelt drinks. With a friendly and approachable demeanor, the owner has been loved by locals since the bar's opening in 2012.
I'm a big fan of the fruity cocktails made with fresh fruits like oranges and strawberries, which are also recommended for women. As a popular spot, consider yourself lucky if you find a vacant seat! Be sure to create wonderful memories at orso.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 19:00 until late night
・Closed: Irregular (check Facebook for updates)
・Address: 3-44-1 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
・URL: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=131401190324739&_rdr
Recommended Bars Around Yanaka Ginza
BAR Hoshikuzu
Source: Official Facebook
If you want to enjoy a drink while listening to nostalgic Japanese melodies, "BAR Hoshikuzu" is recommended. In the relaxing atmosphere of the interior, you can listen to City Pop from the 1970s and 80s.
The music flowing from the records has a warmth to it, allowing you to immerse yourself in the emotional ambiance of old Japan while savoring your drinks. The shelves adorned with numerous records are impressive! You can even request your favorite songs to be played.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 18:00-0:00
・Closed: Mondays
・Address: 7-18-13 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 080-5169-5128
・URL: https://www.instagram.com/bar.hoshikuzu/
Beer pub Ishii: Enjoy Craft Beer
Source: Tabelog
If you want to enjoy Japanese craft beer, "Bia pabu Ishii" is recommended. Meticulously crafted craft beers from all over Japan are poured straight from the taps.
Four different beers are available daily from the four taps in the shop, allowing you to taste different beers every time you visit, making you want to come back day after day to try new varieties. They also offer a variety of side dishes, including homemade pickles and fish and chips with a choice of three types of fish, ensuring your stomach and heart are both satisfied!
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Wed-Sat 17:00-25:00 / Sun 15:00-22:00
・Closed: Mon & Tue
・Address: 3-45-8 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 03-3828-7300
・URL: https://www.beerpub-ishii.com/
Wine Bar "C'est qui?"
Source: Tabelog
At the very end of an arcade that makes you feel like you've gone back 30 years is "C'est qui?". Despite the stylish French name, the origin is the owner's nickname, "Sekki."
At Sekki's place, you can enjoy additive-free wines and cuisine, along with fun conversations with the cheerful owner. The dishes prepared by the owner, who trained in France, are exquisite! And surprisingly, they even serve ramen for dessert.
With only a counter seating area, the distance between the owner and customers is close, creating a warm, hospitable atmosphere.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 18:00-0:00
・Closed: Mondays
・Address: Hatunekouji, 7-18-13 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
・URL: https://www.facebook.com/winebarseki
Eau de vie
Source: Tabelog
The long-established "Eau de vie" is a bar where time flows quietly. In the dimly lit interior, cocktails sparkle like gems. The middle-aged master prepares original cocktails brimming with attention to detail.
The cocktail of the month, generously using seasonal fruits, is a popular menu item. Upon request, the master will craft a cocktail suited to your mood. Eau de vie exudes an exceptional ambiance in Yanaka, providing a relaxing experience whether you visit alone or with a special someone.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 19:00-0:00
・Closed: Sundays
・Address: 6-3-10 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo (Tokyo-to Taito-ku yanaka 6-3-10)
・Phone: 03-3822-8678
・URL: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131105/13018395/
Sake to Ate Chinnen
Source: Official Facebook
Down a flight of stairs from the street is "Sake to Ate Chinnen," a hidden Japanese sake bar. In the relaxing atmosphere, you can enjoy sake recommended by the master. In Japan, side dishes have traditionally been called "sakazuki," reflecting the perfect pairing of sake and fish dishes.
Grilled fish, fried fish, and salt-cured dishes using seasonal fish are offered on a rotating daily menu. The interior features Gundam plastic models, making it a recommended spot for Gundam fans. Enjoy sake in a relaxing ambiance while appreciating Gundam—a unique experience!
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 19:00-0:00
・Closed: Thursdays, Sundays, and Holidays
・Address: B109, 3-44-9 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (Tokyo-to Bunkyo-ku Sendagi 3-44-9 B109)
・Phone: 03-5809-0120
・Official X: https://twitter.com/1000dag3
Bar Ichihachi
Source: Tabelog
Located right after exiting Sendagi Subway Station, "Bar Ichihachi" offers cocktails and whiskeys. Despite the masculine interior, their specialty is fruity cocktails made with seasonal fruits.
From strawberries and pineapples to passion fruits, a wide variety of fruit cocktails are available. The cocktails, boldly topped with sliced fruits, are sure to excite you. With an extensive whiskey selection, you'll find yourself happily indulging in drink after drink.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 18:00 until late night (varies daily, check Twitter for updates)
・Closed: Irregular
・Address: 2F MH Building, 3-34-7 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 03-3822-7071
・Official X: https://twitter.com/bar_18
Bar Layover
Source: Official Twitter
Just a two-minute walk from Sendagi Station, "Bar Layover" offers a cozy atmosphere on the second floor of a red brick building.For those who find bars intimidating, this welcoming spot will put you at ease.
The popular menu features 10 varieties of seasonal fruit cocktails prepared by an experienced bartender who brings out the best in the ingredients.
The fruit cocktails can be made non-alcoholic, making this a recommended spot even for those who don't drink. Through partnerships with nearby restaurants, you can also enjoy hearty dishes like pasta and pizza.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: 19:00-26:00
・Closed: Irregular (varies monthly, check Twitter)
・Address: 3-1-17 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 03-5832-9786
・Official X: https://twitter.com/okunojun
Shout Essence: A Gathering Spot for Gamers
Source: Official Website
Upon entering, you'll be greeted by characters from Street Fighter and Dragon Quest! At "Shout Essence," you can amazingly enjoy drinks while playing games. Fighting game tournaments are frequently held here, so fans should definitely check it out!
Feel free to test your skills against Japanese fighting game players. The curry served at the bar is excellent, with regulars praising it as "restaurant quality!" Lunch hours offering curry and pasta are also available.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Fri (Lunch) 11:00-14:00 (Night) 18:00-24:00 / Sat, Sun & Holidays 11:00-24:00
・Closed: Irregular
・Address: 3-44-1 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 080-5312-1915
・URL: https://sites.google.com/view/shout-essence
Izakayas are Also Recommended
When you want to enjoy drinks and meals in a lively atmosphere with friends, family, or companions, izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) are recommended. Upon entering an izakaya, you'll be served "otoshi," a small appetizer (typically charged). Many izakayas take pride in their otoshi, and I personally look forward to tasting them. Izakayas offer a wide variety of alcoholic beverages and dishes, allowing you to fully satisfy your appetite.
In Japan, izakayas are typically visited for boisterous drinking parties with companions, while bars are preferred for quieter, more intimate experiences with drinks. It's common to choose the appropriate establishment based on the occasion.
Recommended Izakayas Around Yanaka Ginza
Tachi nomi Sharaku
Source: Tabelog
"Tachi nomi Sharaku" is an izakaya specializing in Kobe beef, oden (Japanese hot pot), and fresh lemon sours. Despite the name "tachi nomi" (standing bar), you can sit and leisurely enjoy drinks and cuisine. Their signature item is 10 varieties of fresh lemon sours made from homemade lemon syrup.
My recommendation is the combination of freshly fried homemade potato chips and the lemon sours—you won't be able to stop eating and drinking! Their meat dishes, like roast beef made with premium Kobe beef, are also exquisite. Takeout is available, so you can enjoy a lemon sour while strolling the shopping street on a hot day.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00-21:00 / Sat & Days before Holidays 11:00-22:00 / Sun & Holidays 12:00-21:00
・Closed: Irregular
・Address: 3-9-15 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 050-5494-1971
・URL: https://ge9p706.gorp.jp/
・Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharakuyanaka/
Washu Nikomi RAIDON
Source: Tabelog
"Washu Nikomi RAIDON" offers over 10 varieties of Japanese sake and more than 30 types of shochu (Japanese distilled spirit). True to its name, this izakaya specializes in a wide selection of Japanese alcoholic beverages. With the availability of all-you-can-drink options, you can indulge in as many varieties as you like!
Their recommended dishes include stewed offal like pork and beef innards, which pair well with alcohol. In addition to Japanese sake, you can also enjoy beer and wine to find the perfect pairing for your meal. With seating options ranging from counter to table, the izakaya welcomes both solo diners and groups. As a popular spot, making a reservation on weekdays is recommended.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 17:00-23:00 / Sat 11:00-14:00, 17:00-23:00
・Closed: Sun & Holidays (Open on the 1st & 3rd Sundays)
・Address: 3-24-7 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 050-5600-3744
・Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raidon_ynk/
Yanaka Tokiwa
Source:Tabelog
With its tastefully aged, retro exterior, "Yanaka Tokiwa" is a branch of the long-established Asakusa Tokiwa restaurant, operating for over 100 years. Previously a restaurant, it transitioned into an izakaya in 1989.
The yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), sashimi, and other Japanese dishes prepared by the owner are exquisite and highly regarded. Yanaka Tokiwa is bustling with regulars every night. Here, you're sure to experience the warmth of the local community and Yanaka's hospitable spirit.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 17:00-19:00
・Closed: Sundays
・Address: 3-2-9 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 03-5685-0091
・URL: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131106/13077030/
Nishikiya
Source: Tabelog
"Nishikiya" is a family-run establishment long beloved by the local community. The interior exudes an old-fashioned charm, with the walls covered in menus. Their extensive selection of dishes and drinks are all reasonably priced.
Seasonal offerings like spring mountain vegetables, summer oysters and loach fish, fall sauries and matsutake mushrooms, and winter pufferfish are highly popular. The izakaya is always lively with regulars, so reservations for small groups are recommended due to limited seating. Visitors are warmly welcomed in this hospitable establishment overflowing with kindness.
<Shop Information>
・Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 17:30-23:00
・Closed: Sundays
・Address: 3-34-7 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
・Phone: 03-3828-0935
・URL: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1311/A131106/13074771/
I've introduced bars and izakayas around the Yanaka Ginza shopping street. Were you able to find a spot that piqued your interest? If so, be sure to visit!
As many shops in Yanaka Ginza are independent establishments, credit cards and electronic payment may not be accepted, so carrying cash is essential.
Magical Trip also offers walking tours in Yanaka. By exploring with a local guide, you can deeply experience the daily lives of the downtown residents. I recommend joining a tour and visiting bars or izakayas in the evening to experience a unique side of Tokyo.
Check Detail >> Yanaka Historical Walking Tour in Tokyo's Old Town