Things to Do at Night in Ueno! Enjoy Nightlife around Ueno District
Ueno, one of Tokyo's popular tourist destinations, has several attractive features. While showcasing its cultural side with numerous art galleries, museums, and art facilities, it also serves as a "community relaxation spot" with its zoo and lush parks.
The area retains much of its historic streetscape from before and after World War II, attracting many young people and tourists drawn to its retro atmosphere. While many visitors choose to stay in the popular Shinjuku area, Ueno offers a unique nightlife experience that's worth the trip from any place to stay in Tokyo.
What's particularly essential when discussing Ueno is its thriving drinking district centered around "Ameyoko." The area boasts numerous famous establishments known throughout Japan and many deep local spots that only residents know about. As night falls, the entire district comes alive with energy.
In this article, we'll explore Ueno's deep "nighttime face."
Ueno is One of Tokyo's Premier Drinking Districts, Even More Lively at Night
Ueno has countless bars offering delicious drinks at reasonable prices. The drinking district is bustling regardless of whether it's a weekday or weekend, attracting both alcohol enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. As night falls, the district becomes increasingly energetic.
Here, you can enjoy "hashigo-zake" (Bar Hopping), a traditional Japanese drinking style, visiting various interesting establishments one after another. Beyond typical Japanese bars and izakayas, the area offers nightclubs and karaoke spots, making it perfect for enjoying nightlife until dawn.
3 Must-Visit Izakayas in Ueno's Symbol "Ameyoko"
Daitoryo (The President)
Source: Tabelog
"Daitoryo" is a casual pub that evokes the atmosphere of Japan's black markets during the post-war chaos period. This establishment, with over 70 years of history, is famous for its fresh motsu (various animal organ meats from beef, pork, and chicken). Local residents and tourists alike gather here throughout the day to enjoy Daitoryo's proud motsu dishes and drinks.
The most popular menu item is their original stewed dish using horse organ meat, which has been served since their founding. This hearty dish includes tender stewed motsu with tofu, and due to its reasonable price, it's ordered by virtually every customer.
Another signature feature of Daitoryo is their sake, dramatically poured from large containers. This unpretentious style, rarely seen elsewhere, creates an addictive experience of savoring motsu while drinking.
- Address: 6-10-14 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 10:00-24:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-3832-5622
Jizakana Yatai Hamachan Ueno Branch
Source: Tabelog
At "Jizakana Yatai Hamachan Ueno Branch," you can enjoy fresh seafood delivered directly from fishing ports daily.
Their bluefin tuna sashimi is a must-try. It's a thick-cut, high-quality fatty piece that will surprise you with the thought, "How can something this big be so reasonably priced!?"
The tempura is also highly popular, with people saying, "If you're eating tempura in Ueno, this is the place!" They serve generously sized ingredients including shrimp, conger eel, squid, and scallops, allowing you to enjoy volume-packed tempura that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
When you order tempura, it always comes with a complimentary large serving of grated daikon radish. Try it with the tempura or simply with soy sauce for a refreshing taste.
- Address: 6-9-13 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 11:30-23:00
- Closed: Open daily (except during New Year's holidays)
- Phone: 03-5807-8413
- Official Website: http://www.window-co.jp/shop/hamachan-ueno/
Standing Bar Kadokura
Source: Official website
"Standing Bar Kadokura" is perfect for those moments when you think, "I'd like to take a quick break and wet my throat, just like a coffee break."
The reason this place is universally loved is its pricing, with menu items starting from just a few hundred yen. It's no wonder alcohol enthusiasts seeking "senbero" (drinking with snacks for ¥1,000) frequent this place daily.
Be sure to order their most popular item, the "Millefeuille Ham Cutlet." Layers of ham wrapped in light breading release juicy flavors that fill your mouth.
With just ¥2,000, you're guaranteed to satisfy both your stomach and soul with drinks and food.
- Address: 6-13-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Monday-Thursday, Sundays, and Holidays 11:00-22:00 (L.O. 21:30), Fridays, Saturdays, and Holiday Eves 11:00-23:00 (L.O. 22:30)
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 03-3832-5335
- Official Website: https://taishoen.co.jp/kadokura/
Enjoying Street Food at Night in "Ameyoko" is Also Recommended!
"Ameyoko" offers plenty of street food options that you'll be tempted to try.
You'll find various genres of food, from minced meat cutlets and croquettes at meat wholesalers' direct shops to authentic Chinese xiao long bao dumplings at Chinese restaurants.
Let the appealing aromas guide you as you stroll around, sampling delicious treats bit by bit.
Michelin-Listed! Two Recommended Restaurants for Those Seeking a Refined Atmosphere and High-Quality Japanese Cuisine
Kaiseki Ikku (Japanese Cuisine)
Source: Official website
While Ueno has numerous prestigious establishments offering authentic Japanese cuisine, "Kaiseki Ikku" stands out as the top recommendation. Here, you can experience the delicacy of Japanese cuisine where the chef's meticulous work is evident in every aspect - from knife skills and cooking techniques to seasoning and plating.
My recommendation is their course meal featuring conger eel as the main dish. They use large conger eel caught in the Sanriku region (Tohoku area), which is rarely available in regular markets. The eel, known for its rich flavor and high-quality fat content, is aged for over two days to concentrate its umami. The course concludes with matcha green tea, reflecting the elegant tradition of tea ceremony cuisine.
- Address: 2-4-23 Ikenohata, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 12:00-15:30 (last entry 13:30), 17:00-22:00 (last entry 19:30) *Special - timing available upon request
- Closed: Irregular
- Phone: 03-5685-0170
- Official Website: https://www.kaiseki-ikku.com/
Ponta Honke (Tonkatsu)
Source: Tabelog
"Ponta Honke" is a Western-style restaurant that has been family-operated for four generations since 1905. Western-style cuisine (yoshoku) refers to Western dishes adapted to Japanese tastes, a genre that became popular in Japan from the late 1800s.
Their unique cutlet has earned them fame, creating countless repeat customers who become hooked after just one taste. They carefully remove lard from the pork and fry it slowly at low temperatures to seal in the umami. The accompanying miso soup and pickles are equally flavorful, leaving diners eager to return.
The warm, family-run atmosphere adds to its long-standing charm.
- Address: 3-23-3 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours:
Lunch: Tuesday-Sunday & Holidays 11:00-14:00 (L.O. 13:45)
Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday & Day before Holidays 16:30-20:20 (L.O. 19:45), Sunday & Holidays 16:00-20:20 (L.O. 19:45)
- Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a holiday, closed the following Tuesday), Other temporary closures
- Phone: 050-5492-8353
- Official Website: https://g608200.gorp.jp/
Experience Deep Ueno with "All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno"
For those staying in Shinjuku, the "All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno" offers an authentic local experience just a few stops away on the train. This tour lets you enjoy Ueno through the eyes of locals.
Join a local guide who knows Ueno inside out to explore hidden night spots and bars not found in guidebooks, while savoring traditional street food and drinks. The tour concludes either at a standing bar where you can mingle with locals or at a popular ramen shop for a final bowl of ramen. Either option promises to be the perfect ending to your Ueno bar-hopping experience.
Meeting Point: Ueno Station Central Exit Plaza (In front of the object/Atre Ueno WEST, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
Tour Area: Ueno
Start Time: 18:00
3 Exciting Bars & Nightclubs to Enjoy in Vibrant Nighttime Ueno
Classic Tokyo
Source: Official website
Head to "CLASSIC TOKYO" for a night of exciting shows and live performances. Here, you can enjoy top DJs who perform in Tokyo nightlife hotspots like Roppongi and Shibuya, as well as international festivals. The main attraction is the dynamic and alluring burlesque shows and pole dancing performances that create an exciting adult entertainment atmosphere. Another plus is that there's typically no entrance fee except on special occasions. With delicious cocktails and professional service, it's a safe and enjoyable spot even for solo female visitors. It's an ideal location for a quick drink before or after your night out.
- Address: 1F Yamato Building, 2-9-6 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 19:00-29:00
- Closed: Sundays
- Phone: 03-5826-8008
- Official Website: https://classic-tokyo.com/
Bar Neko
Source:Tabelog
"Bar Neko" is famous as an irresistible spot for cat and animal lovers. The stars of the show are the owner's beloved cats. They might approach you, cross the counter, or keep you company while drinking water at the same counter. These cats will help you feel relaxed and comfortable even on your first visit. The drink menu is extensive, featuring authentic cocktails. We recommend their original cocktail named "Neko" (Cat) - a frozen cocktail mixing grapefruit and tequila that's smooth and easy to drink.
*Relocated to Hongo-sanchome
- Address: B1F Shibata Building, 4-34-17 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 18:00-24:00, Friday-Saturday 18:00-26:00
- Closed: Mondays and Sundays
- Phone: 090-1886-2297
- Official Website: https://www.facebook.com/ueno.bar.neko/?locale=ja_JP
Public Stand
Source: Official website
"Public Stand" is a popular standing bar chain that started in Ebisu, Tokyo, and now has locations throughout Tokyo and nationwide. You can enjoy sports public viewing, darts, and games. After purchasing either an unlimited drink plan or drink tickets, you're free to enjoy the venue as you please. The unlimited drink plan has no time limit and allows free entry and exit. You can even visit other restaurants and return to continue drinking. The Ueno location features elaborate decorations and colorful lighting creating a festive atmosphere. Semi-private rooms and VIP sofa seats are available for a more relaxed experience.
- Address: 2-12-2 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 18:00-29:00
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 03-5826-4932
- Official Website: https://www.public-stand.com/shops/ueno/
Two Recommended Karaoke Places Where You Can Enjoy Private Rooms with Drinks and Singing
"Karaoke," which has now become a universal term, is a major form of entertainment that originated in Japan. Many Japanese people regularly relieve stress by singing along to songs by their favorite musicians and artists.
Currently, "karaoke boxes" with well-equipped private rooms are the mainstream, and it's common to enjoy them with close friends and family. There's also a traditional way of enjoying karaoke at establishments called "snacks" (bar-style venues), where strangers sing together and create a lively atmosphere.
Karaoke Pasela Ueno Okachimachi Branch
Source: Official website
"Karaoke Pasela Ueno Okachimachi" features a comfortable space reminiscent of a Balinese resort hotel. With their original karaoke system containing 1.5 million songs, you're sure to find the song you want to sing. They quickly update their selection with new releases and offer songs in Japanese, Western, Chinese, and Korean categories.
What's particularly noteworthy about Pasela is the high quality of their food. With their restaurant management expertise, they offer delicious dishes that you wouldn't expect from a karaoke establishment.
- Address: 1-20-9 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Monday-Friday & day before holidays 17:00-29:00, Saturday/Sunday/Holidays 11:00-29:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 0120-706-737
- Official Website: https://www.pasela.co.jp/shop/okachimachi/map.html
Karaoke Manekineko Ueno Chuo-dori Branch
Source: Official X
"Manekineko" is a major nationwide karaoke chain brand. Room rates are 50 yen during morning hours, and they offer affordable all-you-can-sing packages. Plus, you can bring your own food and drinks. Due to these budget-friendly options, it's popular among younger generations.
The Ueno branch particularly features party rooms, so you can use it not just for karaoke but also for various gatherings with large groups. Being open 24 hours, it's perfect for taking a break during your night out in Ueno.
- Address: Plaza U 4-5F, 4-8-6 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 03-6240-1530
- Official Website: https://www.karaokemanekineko.jp/locations?id=648
Ueno Park: A Different Atmosphere at Night, Perfect for Dates and Evening Walks
"Ueno Onshi Park," commonly known as Ueno Park, is a historic location that opened in 1876 as Japan's first public park.
Home to many cultural facilities including museums, art galleries, a zoo, and art universities, it's popular for dates. At night, the crowds thin out, making it an ideal spot for evening walks. It's also famous for cherry blossoms, with spectacular illuminated night views in spring. Summer nights are cool, and autumn brings mystical scenes with illuminated fall foliage.
It's also the perfect place to sober up while enjoying a coffee after your night out in Ueno.
