The Ultimate Guide to Ginza at Night: Best Things to Do in Tokyo's Luxury District
From Michelin-starred restaurants to small bars that retain the old Tokyo atmosphere, Ginza is a district where sophistication and elegance intersect like nowhere else in the world. I have been observing this area for over 30 years, and its charm never ceases to amaze me.
It's true that the main streets are now crowded with tourists and high-end shops stand out. However, if you step just one street away, you can still feel the old Ginza atmosphere. At night, the neon-lit streets are filled with a diverse mix of people, from office workers heading home to celebrities.
There are countless ways to spend a night in Ginza. You might enjoy $200 sushi or mingle with locals at a casual standing bar. This district can create the perfect night for you, depending on your budget and mood.
Now, let me guide you through some exquisite nightlife spots known only to insiders. I'm sure you'll be captivated by the charms of Ginza's night, which are surprisingly accessible!
Table of Contents
・The Allure of Ginza at Night
・Three Tours to Fully Enjoy Ginza
・Nightlife Spots to Visit Along with Ginza
・Frequently Asked Questions
The Allure of Ginza at Night
Ginza's night continues to fascinate tourists from all over the world as a sophisticated adult playground. In contrast to its daytime face with luxury brand shops lining the streets, Ginza transforms into a district exuding a bewitching charm at night. Here, I'll introduce you to some special spots that color Ginza's nights.
Spots to Enjoy Ginza's Nightlife
Ginza's nights offer various ways to enjoy beyond just dining and drinking. Here, I'll introduce you to some places that have particularly left an impression on me. Each of these spots offers a special experience that symbolizes Ginza's nights.
RAISE
Source: Google Map
RAISE is one of the most impressive nightclubs I've experienced in Ginza. The moment you step inside, you're overwhelmed by a sense of entering another world. The 27-meter high ceiling space is breathtaking, and the vast 740㎡ floor is truly an oasis for enjoying the city's night.
Events featuring world-famous DJs are frequently held, attracting many music fans from both Japan and abroad. I myself have enjoyed the performances of world-class DJs here several times, and those experiences are unforgettable. Particularly impressive is the music flowing from VOID's highest-grade speakers. The clear sound quality and power resonate to the core of your body, allowing you to feel at one with the music.
The charm of RAISE isn't just about the music. There are three bars with different concepts, allowing you to enjoy according to your mood and preferences of the day. In particular, the members-only VIP lounge "BLACK BAR" is perfect for spending a special night in a space that prioritizes privacy.
The interior is also one of RAISE's attractions. The futuristic design based on black and gold is chic yet gives a sense of glamour. The production using LED vision and special effects equipment is visually entertaining.
Finally, a great attraction of RAISE is its excellent access. Being directly connected to Tokyo Metro "Ginza Station" makes it very convenient for tourists. Located in the center of Ginza, where luxury hotels and famous restaurants gather, it's ideal for visiting after dinner or as a finale to your sightseeing.
Website: https://raisetokyo.com/?lang=en
ART AQUARIUM
Source: Google Map
ART AQUARIUM is a spot with a unique charm that colors Ginza's night. When I first visited here, I was taken aback by its fantastical space. Centered around aquariums where colorful goldfish swim, the production combines light, music, and fragrance, making you feel as if you've wandered into another world.
The charm of this place lies in the fact that it's not just an aquarium. Japanese patterns and traditional decorations are used to enhance the beauty of the goldfish. The space where Japanese traditional beauty and contemporary art fuse should be very attractive to foreign tourists.
Recently, it has also gained popularity as an Instagram-worthy spot. The space decorated with beautiful aquariums and ornaments is perfect for taking photos. I took a few photos myself, and the space looked picturesque from any angle.
One of the attractions of ART AQUARIUM is its excellent access. Located in the center of Ginza, you can easily drop by between sightseeing. There are many other tourist spots nearby, so you can enjoy Ginza sightseeing efficiently.
Website: https://artaquarium.jp/
Evening Performance at Kabukiza Theatre
Kabukiza Theatre is a place that can be called a cultural symbol coloring Ginza's night. Since its opening in 1889, it has carved a long history as the hall of Kabuki, a traditional Japanese performing art. I still vividly remember being overwhelmed by its splendor and power when I first saw an evening performance as a student.
The current Kabukiza incorporates elements of traditional Japanese architecture while featuring modern design. Especially the illuminated exterior at night exudes a unique beauty based on the Momoyama style, attracting the eyes of many people. Its presence, standing out distinctly among Ginza's cityscape, can truly be called the epitome of Japanese culture.
The charm of Kabukiza is not just in being a historical building. Here, various performances are held, from classical plays to new works with modern interpretations. I particularly like the evening performances and often drop by after work. The time spent enjoying the fantastical stage in Ginza, where the daytime bustle has settled, is exceptional.
Good accessibility is also one of Kabukiza's attractions. It's within walking distance from Ginza Station, so you can easily visit between sightseeing. With many shopping areas nearby, you can enjoy shopping and cultural experiences at once, which is also attractive.
Website: https://www.kabukiweb.net/theatres/kabukiza/kabukiza-information/
BAR HIGH FIVE
Source: Google Map
BAR HIGH FIVE is one of the famous establishments that symbolize Ginza's night. I first visited this bar about 10 years ago, and I still vividly remember that experience. This bar, which has been selected as one of the world's best bars, continues to fascinate visitors with its sophisticated space and supreme cocktails that live up to its reputation.
When you step inside, you're surrounded by a calm atmosphere based on wood grain. Sitting at the counter seat, you feel as if you've been invited to a special world. Here, you can closely observe the bartenders' high mixology skills. Their delicate handiwork and creative approach can truly be called art.
The charm of BAR HIGH FIVE also lies in its international atmosphere. Conversations with guests from around the world are full of new discoveries and stimulation. I myself have had the experience of hitting it off with an overseas bartender I met here by chance and exchanging valuable information.
Located in the center of Ginza, you can easily drop by after sightseeing or shopping. Also, since it's open until late at night, it's perfect as a finale to enjoy Ginza's night.
Website: https://www.barhighfive.com/
Dining in Ginza at Night
Ginza's night is also known as a treasure trove of fine dining. I have visited various restaurants in Ginza over many years, and I'm always amazed by their diversity and high quality. Here, I'll introduce you to various dining options that color Ginza's nights.
First, when it comes to Ginza, we can't miss high-end sushi restaurants. My favorite is a restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while closely watching the craftsmen's skills at the counter seats. In particular, the Edomae sushi using seasonal ingredients is exquisite, and once you taste it, you'll never forget the flavor. While the prices are certainly high, I feel that the quality and atmosphere are worth it.
French restaurants are also an important element coloring Ginza's nights. There are various options, from famous restaurants that have earned Michelin stars to relatively reasonable hidden gems. What particularly impresses me is a creative cuisine restaurant that cooks Japanese ingredients using French techniques. The exquisite fusion of Japanese and Western flavors provides a refined taste that is truly Ginza-like.
Three Faces of Ginza Nightlife: Izakayas, Karaoke, and Wine Bars
Japanese izakayas are also essential for enjoying Ginza's night. In the back alleys just one street away from the main streets lined with high-end shops, there are many izakayas that retain the old atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy traditional Japanese flavors such as fresh sashimi, yakitori, and seasonal small dishes. I often drop by after work, and a drink at the counter seat while chatting with local regulars is exceptional.
When talking about Ginza's night, we can't forget karaoke bars. These are especially recommended for foreign tourists who want to experience Japanese culture. I sometimes take my friends from overseas, and they are all very interested in Japan's unique karaoke culture. This unique space where you can enjoy singing while drinking is truly symbolic of "Japan's night."
Lastly, wine bars are also an important element coloring Ginza's night. You can enjoy carefully selected wines from around the world with sommeliers' detailed explanations. I particularly like shops that offer pairings of Japanese wine and Japanese food. The marriage of seasonal Japanese ingredients and wine often leads to the discovery of new flavors.
Three Tours to Fully Enjoy Ginza
To fully enjoy Ginza, Tokyo's high-end commercial district, I recommend tours with guides who know the area inside out. As someone who has been frequenting Ginza for over 30 years, I'll introduce you to three high-quality tours for foreign travelers. All of these tours are in English and offer special experiences to deeply understand Ginza's charms.
"Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza" by Magical Trip
This tour offered by us at MagicalTrip is a luxurious 3.5-hour journey where you can experience the essence of Japanese food culture. Not only can you enjoy over 20 types of sake, but you can also learn in detail about the thoughts and history of the producers. And above all, the 30-minute all-you-can-drink session is attractive.
The all-you-can-eat highest grade A5 rank wagyu beef is an experience unique to this tour. The wagyu served in teppanyaki style has a melt-in-your-mouth texture. After enjoying the first 4 dishes, you can order as much additional as you like. Even foreign tourists who usually eat moderately have requested several refills.
Walking around Ginza can also be enjoyed from the perspective of an English-speaking local guide. They guide you not only to famous tourist spots but also to hidden gems that only we locals know about.
The tour price is $178.26, but I feel it's very reasonable considering it includes visits to three places - a sake bar, a teppanyaki restaurant, and a cafe/bar - and covers food and drink costs.
However, children under 6 years old cannot participate, and there are restrictions on special meal requests. Gluten-free options are not available, and allergy accommodations require advance notice at least one day before.
For details: "Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza" by Magical Trip
"Tokyo Private Driving Tour by Car or Van with Chauffeur" by Glocal Japan
Source: TripAdvisor
This tour by Glocal Japan is a luxurious 9-hour private tour perfect for those who want to efficiently explore Tokyo.
With an English-speaking driver-guide, you can comfortably tour Tokyo's main spots including Ginza, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya Scramble Crossing in a comfortable car. The big advantage is that you don't have to bother with public transportation, and there's no worry about getting lost even if it's your first time in Tokyo.
You can choose between a 5-seater premium van or a 9-seater spacious van, accommodating groups of 4-9 people. The itinerary can be flexibly adjusted according to the group's pace and interests, so it's recommended for those who want to take photos leisurely or spend more time at specific spots.
The fee starts from $315.23 for a group of 4, which is somewhat expensive. Also, due to Tokyo's traffic conditions, especially after evening, there's a possibility that you may not be able to follow the schedule as planned, so time adjustments may be necessary.
It's important to note that since this tour is not specific to Ginza, the guide may not be thoroughly familiar with Ginza.
For details: "Tokyo Private Driving Tour by Car or Van with Chauffeur" by Glocal Japan
"Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza" by Magical Trip
This is a luxurious 2.5-hour dining experience offered by us at MagicalTrip where you can enjoy authentic sushi and tempura at high-end restaurants in Ginza.
You can secure counter seats at restaurants with Michelin stars or high ratings on Tabelog, allowing you to dine at famous restaurants that are usually difficult to book. What I particularly like is being able to see the skilled chefs' techniques up close. The knife skills and the way they fry tempura are truly artistic.
Drinks include two beers or sake each at the sushi and tempura restaurants, totaling four drinks. There's also a premium sake option, making it perfect for special occasions or celebrations.
An English-speaking guide accompanies you, explaining the manners and how to enjoy high-end sushi restaurants in detail, so even those unfamiliar with Japanese food culture can enjoy their meal with peace of mind.
The fee is $203.73, which is on the higher side, but considering that you can definitely dine at high-end restaurants that are usually difficult to book, and it includes explanations of Ginza's history and culture by the guide, I feel it's a very reasonable price setting.
However, there are restrictions: vegetarians need to make a request one day in advance, and unfortunately, vegans, those requiring gluten-free options, and those with shellfish allergies cannot be accommodated.
For details: "Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza" by Magical Trip
These tours all offer wonderful content that allows you to fully enjoy the charms of Ginza.
Among them, I particularly recommend the "Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza". It's a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese food culture at Ginza's high-end restaurants, and it's a tour with very high participant satisfaction. Why not add it to your Tokyo travel memories?
Nightlife Spots to Visit Along with Ginza
After savoring the charms of Ginza, why not enjoy the nightlife in other popular areas of Tokyo? Each area has its own unique atmosphere and attractions, allowing you to see different night faces of Tokyo compared to Ginza. Here, I'll introduce three major nightlife spots that you should visit along with Ginza.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is an area with an energetic and vibrant night face, contrasting with Ginza. I've been captivated by the charms of Shinjuku's night since my student days, and I still frequently visit.
When talking about Shinjuku's night, we can't miss Golden Gai. The small bars lining these narrow alleys are valuable spots that retain the Showa era atmosphere to this day. My favorite is a small bar where I can drink shoulder to shoulder with regular customers. The conversations here are always full of new discoveries. It's also popular among foreign tourists, and you can enjoy an internationally diverse atmosphere.
Kabukicho can be said to be the center of Shinjuku's night. The cityscape adorned with neon lights is spectacular, truly symbolizing the "sleepless city". A foreign friend who visited once was surprised by the eccentricity and flashiness of the town, but really enjoyed it.
Also, a feature of Shinjuku is that there are many restaurants and bars open until late at night. It's bustling with various people, from office workers on their way home to young people enjoying nightlife. I often stop by after work, and every time I do, I make new discoveries.
Shinjuku's night has a completely different charm from Ginza. This energetic and diverse town is perfect for those who want to experience a different face of Tokyo's night. I recommend enjoying Shinjuku's lively night after spending a sophisticated time in Ginza.
Shibuya
While Shibuya is known as a town for young people, it's also popular as an adult nightlife spot. I've been attracted to the charms of Shibuya's night since my student days, and I still visit regularly.
When you think of Shibuya, the first thing that comes to mind is the famous Scramble Crossing. It's busy during the day, but its charm doubles at night. The sight of illuminated advertisement billboards and passing people is truly a symbolic scene of Tokyo. I particularly like the night view on rainy days; the neon lights shining in the sea of umbrellas create a fantastical atmosphere.
Clubs and live houses are also important elements coloring Shibuya's night. From clubs where world-famous DJs perform to live houses where you can hear passionate performances by indie bands, there are places that music lovers can't resist. I myself discovered my favorite band here during my student days and became immersed in the world of music.
Center Street can be said to be the center of Shibuya's night. This street, crowded with young people, is full of energy even at night. The sight of young people at the forefront of fashion is like watching a fashion show. I sometimes walk here to check out the latest trends.
After enjoying adult time in Ginza, feeling the youthful energy in Shibuya is one recommended way to enjoy Tokyo's night.
Roppongi
Roppongi is known as an internationally diverse adult nightlife spot. I often use it when entertaining foreign clients for work, and each time I rediscover the charms of Roppongi.
When talking about Roppongi's night, we can't miss the observation deck "Tokyo City View" at Roppongi Hills. The night view from here is breathtaking, with a panoramic view of Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. I particularly like the time from dusk to night. The changing colors of the sky and the gradual lighting up of the city are as beautiful as if under a spell.
Clubs popular among foreign tourists are also an important element of Roppongi's night. There are various options, from large clubs where you can enjoy performances by DJs and artists from around the world to smaller clubs with a more intimate atmosphere. I sometimes visit with friends, and I'm always fascinated by the international atmosphere and high-quality music.
The illumination of Roppongi Keyakizaka Street is also an important element coloring Roppongi's night. Especially the winter lighting is beautiful and pleases the eyes of many people. I make sure to visit every year when this season comes. Walking through the light-enveloped streets makes me feel warm at heart.
After enjoying an elegant time in Ginza, experiencing a more cosmopolitan atmosphere in Roppongi is one way to maximize your enjoyment of Tokyo's night.
Frequently Asked Questions
When enjoying Ginza at night, many people have similar questions. Here, I'll answer common questions based on my knowledge gained from years of experience.
Where do you recommend for enjoying the night view in Ginza?
There are many places to enjoy the night view in Ginza, but my three favorites are:
First, I recommend the rooftop garden of Ginza Six. From here, you can get a 360-degree view of Tokyo's cityscape. I especially recommend the time from dusk to night; the gradually changing colors of the sky and the city lights coming on are breathtakingly beautiful. I often stop by on my way home from work to unwind from the day.
Next, the lit-up intersection at the Wako Building is not to be missed. It's one of the representative views of Ginza, and it's especially magical on rainy nights. The scene of people with umbrellas and the lit-up buildings is impressive.
Lastly, the spectacular illumination on Chuo-dori Street is also a great night view spot. The winter lighting, in particular, is magnificent and pleases many people's eyes. I make sure to visit every year when this season comes. Walking through the light-enveloped streets makes me feel warm at heart.
Can beginners enjoy performances at Kabukiza Theatre?
Performances at Kabukiza Theatre can be thoroughly enjoyed even by beginners. When I first watched a performance, I had almost no knowledge of Kabuki, but I was fascinated by its splendor and power.
Particularly convenient are the subtitle-equipped tablets. By borrowing these, you can check the meaning of lines and explanations of stage situations in real-time. I used this tablet when I first watched Kabuki, and it was very helpful. Even foreign visitors who don't understand Japanese can rest assured as English subtitles are available.
However, one thing to note is that Kabuki performances are usually over 3 hours long, which might be a bit boring for children. From my experience, many children start to enjoy it around upper elementary school age. If you're bringing young children, you might need to make adjustments like watching only part of a daytime performance.
Is there a dress code for bars and clubs in Ginza?
Many bars and clubs in Ginza generally have dress codes. I've been pointed out about my attire several times, so I'll share based on that experience.
Basically, smart casual is the standard for high-end bars. This means jackets, shirts, nice pants or skirts. From my experience, for men, a shirt with a jacket, and for women, a dress or a combination of a blouse and skirt is safe. A tie is not mandatory, but it's good to have one with you just in case.
What needs particular attention is that some bars prohibit sneakers or overly casual attire. I once tried to enter a high-end bar wearing sneakers and was turned away. It's also safer to avoid sandals, beach sandals, shorts, and tank tops.
For clubs, the dress code is often not as strict as bars, but there can still be certain dress codes. Especially in high-end clubs like RAISE, smart casual is required. A friend of mine was once denied entry wearing a T-shirt and jeans.
However, not all places have strict dress codes. There are many bars and clubs with a casual atmosphere. But considering the nature of Ginza, I think it's safer to go out in slightly more elegant attire.
Ginza's night is truly a space where Tokyo's charms are condensed. In this district where the face of a sophisticated adult playground coexists with the long-standing elegant atmosphere, I hope you find your own special night. A luxurious dinner at a high-end restaurant, cocktail time at a bar, and enjoying traditional performing arts at Kabukiza Theatre. All of these are sure to become unforgettable experiences.
And after enjoying the night in Ginza, I recommend visiting other areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Roppongi. By experiencing the unique atmosphere and charm of each district, you'll be able to understand the diversity of Tokyo's nights more deeply.
I hope you have a wonderful night in Ginza and Tokyo, using this article as a reference!
