Shibuya, a hub of youth culture in Japan, attracts attention from around the world. The town is constantly being redeveloped and evolving at the cutting edge.
The "Scramble Crossing" (Scramble Crossing), which could be called the symbol of Shibuya, is the busiest place in Shibuya. The scene of more than 3,000 people crossing in all directions at once is called "the most famous intersection in the world" and has become one of the two major tourist spots in Shibuya, along with the Hachiko Statue.
For me, an out-of-towner, it was a place that symbolized the city, and I was truly impressed when I first visited.
While Shibuya is at the forefront of youth trends with its concentration of fashion buildings, live houses, and theaters, it also has an artistic side with its many historical art museums and galleries.
A variety of restaurants have opened in this diverse town, offering a wide range of dining options for locals and travelers alike. The nightlife is also thriving, earning it the nickname "the city that never sleeps."
This time, I would like to introduce recommended bars in Shibuya, categorized by purpose.
What's the difference from izakaya (Japanese pubs)?
In Japan, alcohol is served at various restaurants, but before introducing the bars, I would like to explain the difference between them and izakaya, which are often compared.
Izakaya are places where you enjoy drinking while eating, so the priority is on the food.At bars, on the other hand, the priority is on drinking, and food is often limited to snacks or light meals.
Bars also have a counter where you can see the bartender making drinks right in front of you, which is a distinctive feature. Sitting at the counter allows you to enjoy conversation with the bartender, which is one of the pleasures of going to a bar.
Generally, izakaya has bright lighting and a lively, boisterous atmosphere, while bars have dimmer lighting and a more mature, moody vibe.
Bars with a relaxing atmosphere
BAR Sugahara
Source: Official Website
A hidden Japanese-style bar tucked away in a back alley of the Ura-Shibu area.
The gate entrance looks like an inn, and the purely Japanese-style entrance is surprising.
Once inside, you're greeted by a one-piece wooden counter with bottles and glasses lined up behind it, and a bartender in a Japanese-style bar setting.
The building, renovated from an old Japanese house, features touches of old Japanese charm throughout.
The open-ceiling area, in particular, with its beautiful caramel-colored materials, leaves a strong impression of retro Japanese style.
The cocktail menu is extensive, with juicy and delicious fruit cocktails.
It's nice that they can make original cocktails tailored to the season or your taste.
In addition to cocktails, they have a wide selection of other alcoholic beverages, with a particularly large whiskey selection and tasting courses available.There are private rooms on the second floor, and the bar is open until 4 am, so you can relax and enjoy yourself.
<Information>
・Access: 3-minute walk from Manzen-nakacho Station, 10-minute walk from Shibuya Station
・Address: 25-5 Maruyama-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
・Tel: 03-5456-5337
・Hours: 19:00-4:00
・Closed: None
・Official Website: http://bar-sugahara.com/main/
BAR legacy
Source: Tabelog
Just a 1-minute walk from Shibuya Station, this bar transports you to another world as soon as you open the door to the basement of a building and leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind.
The owner, who trained for 7 years in Ginza and 11 years in Shibuya, opened this bar in 2015 with full confidence.
The refined interior, filled with attention to detail, provides a comfortable sense of tension and relaxation.
The eye-catching one-piece wooden counter is made of a rare type of wood from Cameroon. Its distinctive grain is beautiful and has a very elegant sheen.
When you order a cocktail, you're entranced by the bartender's smooth, effortless motions. I was most impressed by the Rare Cheesecake Martini - it felt like I was eating a cake, a strange and delightful sensation for a sweets lover like me.
Throughout, I felt the professional hospitality of "entertaining the customer, who is the main star," making it a very comfortable space even for first-time visitors.
<Information>
・Access: 1-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station South Exit
・Address: 3-22-11 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
・Tel: 03-6427-2122
・Hours: Tue-Sat 18:00-01:00, Sun 18:00-24:00
・Closed: Mon, Holidays
・Official Website: https://bar-legacy.com/index.html
Bars with a view of Shibuya's nightscape
Bellovisto
Source: Tabelog
Located on the top floor of the towering Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, a 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station, this bar offers one of the most beautiful night views in Tokyo. The name "Bellovisto" means "beautiful view" in Spanish.
All 118 seats offer a 150m high panoramic view, with 6 different seating types to choose from depending on your needs. Cocktails are prepared by world-class bartenders, and you can enjoy a wide selection of fine liquors from around the world.
Live piano performances every night add to the mood when combined with the stunning night view for a truly luxurious experience.
The food menu is also extensive, ranging from snacks and light meals to full meals.
My favorite is the chocolate plate - a delicious assortment of white chocolate, fresh chocolate truffles, and more.
The cocktails featuring flavors from different regions of Japan, which change monthly, are also recommended. All seats are non-smoking, and smart casual attire is required.
<Information>
・Access: 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station West Exit
・Address: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel 40F, 26-1 Sakuragaokacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
・Tel: 03-3476-3398
・Hours: Mon/Tue 17:00-24:00, Wed-Fri/Day before holiday 16:00-24:00,
Sat 13:30-24:00, Sun/Holiday 13:30-23:00
・Reservations: Accepted
・Closed: None
・Website: https://www.tokyuhotels.co.jp/cerulean-h/restaurant/bellovisto/index.html
CÉ LA VI RESTAURANT & SKY BAR
Sorce：Tabelog
Located on the 17th and 18th floors of the Tokyu Plaza directly connected to Shibuya Station, this restaurant offers a luxurious vantage point overlooking the nightscape of Shibuya.
The interior exudes a resort-like ambiance that attracts international guests, creating a casual yet upscale atmosphere.
There are 3 types of seating: table, private room, and terrace.
While the tables surrounded by relaxing decor and private rooms offer a cozy resort feel, the Sky Bar terrace is highly recommended for enjoying the night view in an open-air setting overlooking the city center.
The cuisine features modern Asian flavors, with fresh meats, vegetables, and seafood seasoned with authentic spices and herbs. Everything is delicious with beautiful plating.
In addition to the basic drinks menu, you can order signature cocktails popular in Singapore, which is highly recommended.
<Information>
・Access: 1-minute walk from Shibuya Station
・Address: 17th & 18th floors, Tokyu Plaza Shibuya, 1-2-3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
・Tel: 0811-111-3065
・Hours: 11:00-14:00, 14:00-17:00, 17:00-23:00
・Reservations: Accepted
・Closed: None
・Website: https://www.celavi.com/ja/tokyo/restaurant/
Affordable Bars
LITTS BAR & GRILL
Source: Official Website
This stylish DJ bar on Shibuya Center Street has an open, international vibe reminiscent of an overseas club with its diverse crowd including many foreign guests.
The distinctive open counter emanates a luxurious resort lounge feel.
The DJ booth is located inside the counter, and popular DJs spin tracks every night to liven up the atmosphere. The vibe is very chic, and the friendly staff includes many who can speak English.
Seating options include counter seats, tables, sofas, and standing room. As more guests arrive, the bar gets lively with people dancing to the music. Drinks start at just 500 yen, so it's easy to stop by for just one drink.
The food menu is also substantial with a good reputation for quality. The juicy harami (chuck) steak is especially popular.
They offer affordable dinner courses with all-you-can-drink options too.
<Information>
・Access: 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station Exit A3
・Address: 2F Kubo Building, 33-14 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
・Tel: 03-6455-3137
・Hours: Mon-Fri 18:00-6:00 next day, Sat/Holidays 17:00-6:00 next day, Sun 13:00-6:00 next day
・Reservations: Accepted
・Closed: None
・Website: https://litts-bar.com/
bar moon walk
Source: Tabelog
This shot bar chain offers over 500 varieties of cocktails at just 250 yen each! There are 4 locations in Shibuya alone.
They use a smartphone QR code ordering system, making it easy for travelers who may have a language barrier.
The bar gained fame in 2017 for being the model for the "Moonlight Bar" featured in the anime film "The Night is Short, Walk On Girl," attracting anime fans on "pilgrimage" tours of locations from the film.
At the Shibuya Hyakkendana branch, the popular "Oshi Cocktail" lets you order a custom cocktail inspired by your favorite idol, character, etc. You convey your "oshi" through an order form, and the bartenders create a drink capturing that concept - a delightful experience! This special service requires a separate fee and reservation.
<Information>
Shibuya Hyakkendana Branch
・Access: 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station
・Address: 3F Tsuji Building, 2-16-19 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
・Tel: 03-6809-0776
・Hours: 19:00-5:00
・Reservations: Accepted
・Closed: None
・Website: https://barmoonwalk.jp/
Izakaya and Bar Tour Also Recommended
Shibuya is a city that is constantly evolving and staying at the cutting edge, earning it the nickname "the city that never sleeps" for its vibrant nightlife. I've introduced some of the appealing bars in Shibuya, but these are just a small sample.
There are many other wonderful bars and izakaya to explore in Shibuya, so I encourage you to seek them out.
Magical Trip offers guided tours that efficiently visit multiple izakaya and bars. This 3-hour tour starts at the Scramble Crossing, visits sightseeing spots, then takes you to 3 local izakaya/bars. You'll get to experience the "Shibuya Hyakkendana" area that even locals rarely visit, making for a memorable experience.
I highly recommend considering this tour as well. Check the Tour