10 Best Bars in Tokyo

Famous designer Philippe Starck was responsible for the curious look of the Asahi Super Dry Hall. One wonders what Starck was going for when he created the large golden form that sits atop the hall roof. Inside, the same shape appears at unexpected moments, never quite explaining itself.

Within the high-rise building, the first and second floors contain the Flamme d’Or bar, which serves 1 of the freshest draft Asahi beers you're ever likely to find, or you could take the elevator up to the 22nd-floor Asahi Sky Room for a cold beer with a view.

The largest beer brand in Japan, the Kirin Brewery Company introduces beer lovers to a whole new realm of experience at Kirin City in Ueno. The staff at this specialised beer pub are all expertly trained in a 3-step method for pouring the perfect beer. The technique is slow – taking between 3 and 5 minutes per glass – but some good things in life do take time. The menu even has dishes that were specially created to complement Kirin beer.

Kirin City is a good spot for large groups as the menu mixes western and Japanese favourites and the casual atmosphere is welcoming for all. 

Anyone with an interest in Japanese literature will enjoy Bar Lupin, where photographs of Japan’s most celebrated writers dot the walls. Steeped in history, it was a favourite hangout for many famous Japanese writers including Kafu Nagai and Osamu Dazai. The menu is concise and sticks to whiskies and a few cocktails, but everything served is first-class. It's a lovely place to lounge in Ginza. It’s worth bearing in mind, this blast from the past stays true to its roots as a cash-only bar.

Den Aquaroom has a huge aquarium as a focal point so you can enjoy a cocktail while angel fish glide by. How about a tequila next to a tetra? The Den Aquaroom is one of the most visually stunning bars in Aoyama. Inspired by the ocean, this swanky cocktail bar has floor-to-ceiling fish tanks bordering plush lounges where you can lounge back and enjoy a few drinks. It's a great date spot. You can find this stylish bar and restaurant close to Omotesando Station.

Located on the 40th floor of the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel in Shibuya, Bellovisto is a romantic cocktail lounge where you can unwind with a drink and some great views of the evening cityscape of Japan. There's live piano performances most nights, which adds to the chic atmosphere. The bar has a smart casual dress code which means no shorts or sleeveless shirts for the guys. 

My Scotch is a bar conveniently located a few minutes away from Tokyo Metro Roppongi Station. This is something of a secret hideaway where you can enjoy night views of Roppongi while listening to live piano. As the name suggests, there’s a great selection of Scotch whiskey, along with popular Japanese whiskeys and cocktails to try. 

You can enjoy excellent views of Roppongi while enjoying a glass of whiskey. Reserve the sofa seating if you're with a group of friends. Happy hour typically lasts until 8pm. A variety of food is available at My Scotch – the pizza with housemade dough is especially popular.

Hard Rock Cafe Tokyo was opened in Roppongi in 1983 as the first Hard Rock outlet in Asia. It’s a restaurant and bar that serve hearty American food with loud rock music playing in the background. It’s also a cool place if you want to celebrate a birthday or special occasion. Hard Rock Cafe Tokyo has an onsite Rock Store that sells limited-edition pins and t-shirts.