Recommended 6 Bars in Shibuya
Since its publication in June, this article has served as a trusted guide for over 1,400 international visitors to Shibuya. I've decided to update it now to provide the latest information for 2025, ensuring visitors have access to the most current hotspots in Shibuya.
This update includes my personal experiences from living in Shibuya since October 2024, where I've spent nearly every day exploring the area. I've carefully selected my recommended bars, so feel free to use this article as your companion while enjoying Shibuya's nightlife.
However, it can be extremely challenging for tourists to discover the local favorite izakayas and drinking spots on their own. If you want to truly experience Shibuya's nightlife, I recommend joining a local guided tour. Magical Trip offers bar-hopping tours led by locals who can introduce you to the authentic izakayas that Shibuya residents genuinely love.
Our top-ranked tour is the Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour held in Shinjuku, but the Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour held in my hometown, Shibuya, is equally attractive. By highlighting the fun of Shibuya nights, I hope more people will join the Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour.
Once you've set up your day's itinerary in this article, plan more of Shibuya's quintessential nightlife below.
Make the most of your night out in Shibuya with one of Magical Trip's top-rated articles "Shibuya Nightlife Guide 2024 - What to Do at Night in Tokyo's Trendy Neighborhood w/ Map" in hand.
Introduction
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.
Table of Content
・Bars with a relaxing atmosphere
・Bars with a view of Shibuya's nightscape
・Affordable Bars
・Two Recommended Tours to Fully Experience Tokyo
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
Source: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/
Related Article
・Shibuya: Spectacular Views! Restaurants with Great Vistas
In addition to the bars mentioned above, Shibuya, with its towering skyscrapers, offers many restaurants where you can enjoy spectacular views. If you're looking for restaurants with beautiful night views, be sure to check out this article I've put together as a Shibuya local.
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/
Related Article
・Recommended "Night Clubs" to Enjoy Shibuya's Nightlife
Beyond the bars mentioned here, Shibuya's nightlife offers countless ways to have fun after dark. If you're looking to experience the nightlife scene, be sure to check out our recommended nightclubs in Shibuya.
・Where to Drink in Shibuya! Recommended Izakayas
And if you're interested in bar hopping, you can't miss out on izakayas - Japan's unique pub-style establishments! Check out our local guide to must-visit izakayas in Shibuya, curated by Yasuhiro who was born and raised in the neighborhood.
Introducing MagicalTrip's popular bar-hopping tours in Shinjuku and Shibuya that let you maximize your Tokyo nightlife experience.
Two Recommended Tours to Fully Experience Tokyo
Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
This highly popular tour was ranked No.1 in Japan on TripAdvisor in 2024. For $105.56, you get a 3.5-hour experience including 4+ drinks and 3 food items. Visit three local favorite hidden izakayas and enjoy authentic dishes like yakitori, gyoza, and agedashi tofu.
Explore different faces of Shinjuku with an English-speaking guide, including Omoide Yokocho and Kabukicho areas. Open to participants aged 15 and above, with alcohol served only to those 20 and older. Vegetarian options are available, and the tour accommodates solo travelers to groups.
Full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, and date changes are free. Photo service included to capture your memories. Meeting point is at the black pillar next to UNIQLO Shinjuku West Store, 7-8 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit.
For more details: Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku
Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
A 3-hour tour to enjoy Shibuya's nightlife for $106.51, including 4+ drinks and 3-4 food items. Visit hidden dining districts like Niku Yokocho and enjoy premium Japanese meat dishes including wagyu, Kobe beef, and beef sushi.
Open to those 15 and above, with alcohol restricted to ages 20+. Vegetarian options available. Small group size allows for interaction with locals, and English-speaking guide ensures a comfortable experience.
Full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours before, and free date changes. Photo service included. Meeting point is in front of TSUTAYA, 3 minutes walk from Shibuya Station's Hachiko Exit.
For more details: Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo
These two tours offer unique opportunities to experience different aspects of Tokyo. Shinjuku offers traditional izakaya culture, while Shibuya showcases the latest dining trends. With comprehensive content and English support, you can thoroughly enjoy Tokyo's nightlife.