Tokyo is one of the best cities in the world for night-time adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Tokyo at night.
From skyscrapers and neon to grungy restaurants and bars, the ever-changing city of Tokyo has a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
At night, the city turns into an ocean of infinite lights that’s ripe for exploring. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or on your first trip to Tokyo, you’ll discover something new around every corner. Here are the best things to do in Tokyo at night.
Enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife to its fullest with the activities in the list below.
Shibuya is one of the top attractions for anyone travelling to Tokyo. At the heart of this charismatic jumble of shops, restaurants, department stores and clubs is Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world. During peak times, up to 3,000 people cross the street every time the traffic lights turn green.
While Shibuya is worth a visit at any time of the day, the area really comes to life at night. The best spot to view the Shibuya crossing from above is the second floor of Starbucks, located right next to exit A6b of Shibuya Station. Grab yourself a matcha latte and enjoy the view for a while – but don’t leave yet! Shibuya has even more to offer.
The streets of Shibuya are filled with hundreds of restaurants, bars and izakaya, making it one of the city’s premier destinations for an evening meal or drink with friends. A wide selection of clubs also makes sure that the fun keeps going into the early hours.
Shibuya has seen a lot of development over the past few years, including several new skyscrapers that have transformed the city skyline. One of them is Shibuya Scramble Square, which opened its doors to visitors in 2019.
The new skyscraper includes one of Tokyo’s most Instagrammable locations: Shibuya Sky, an observatory deck with a 360° panoramic view. With breathtaking views stretching from downtown Tokyo to Mount Fuji on clear days, this is the ideal spot to chase a picture-perfect sunset and take in the twinkling night lights of the Tokyo metropolis.
Shibuya Sky costs ¥3,400 for admission after 3:00 pm. and is open until 10:30 pm, with final entry at 9:20 pm. Tickets are only available two weeks in advance and often sell out, so we recommend keeping an eye on their official website during your trip. You can also book tickets through third-party sellers like Klook.
Skyscrapers aren’t the only new urban developments in Shibuya. Miyashita Park reopened in 2020 as a modern, multi-purpose facility with new shops, restaurants, and cafés. If you need a break from a busy day of walking, the rooftop park on the uppermost floor is open until 11:00 pm. and features a beach volleyball court, a skate park, and green spaces to relax on mild evenings.
The view from Shibuya Sky at night, with Mt Fuji in the distance
If you’re staying in Tokyo overnight, there is a vast array of accommodation options to choose from. Check out our guide to where to stay in Tokyo to pick the perfect base for your night-time adventures.
While Shibuya Sky offers the newest and most popular night view in Tokyo, it’s just one of many places in the city with a dazzling night-time panorama.
As the tallest tower in the world, Tokyo Skytree will treat you to a unique night view. The 634-meter-high tower is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city, with two observation decks on different levels.
Purchasing your tickets in advance will save you some money. Visitors can choose between two types of tickets, one giving access to only the lower Tembo Deck platform at 350m, or one combined ticket for both the Tembo Deck and the 450m Tembo Galleria platform. You can also opt for a drink at the Skytree Cafe as you look out over the sea of lights.
Tokyo Tower is one of the capital’s most iconic night-time sights. If you’re into anime, you might remember this landmark from a variety of famous shows, including Sailor Moon. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, its history dates back to 1958.
When night falls in Tokyo, the 333m-high building lights up the night in warm shades of orange. Every Monday and Thursday, the lighting changes to special colours that vary depending on the time of the year. On the night of the full moon, the lights on the top half of the tower are turned off to accent the ethereal beauty of the moonlight.
Popular spots to view Tokyo Tower include Shiba Park at the base of the tower, Sakurada-dori Avenue running south towards Keio University, and in and around Roppongi Hills. If previous visits to Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Skytree weren’t enough, you can also enjoy a view of the city skyline from inside Tokyo Tower itself.
Asakusa is Tokyo’s traditional district and home to the city’s oldest temple, Sensō-ji. Built in 645 AD, the temple houses a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, which was pulled from the Sumida River in ancient times, and has been concealed from public view for centuries.
The temple grounds, however, are open to visitors 24 hours a day. While Asakusa is a nice area to explore during the daytime for all the food and souvenir stalls on Nakamise Street, it’s definitely worth a visit at night to see the temple and five-story pagoda illuminated against the night sky.
Since the streets are a lot quieter than during the day, a night visit will allow you to fully appreciate all the details of the architecture and savour your walk through the Kaminarimon gate with its famous red lantern.
The Sumida River is only a short walk away from Asakusa Station and offers exquisite night views of Tokyo Skytree. If you’re up for a more traditional experience, you can also book a dinner cruise on a yakatabune, a traditional Tokyo river boat. But there is more to experience depending on the season.
The banks of Sumida River are fringed by cherry trees, which bloom spectacularly in late March. During this time, Sumida Park holds an annual Sakura Festival – including a yozakura (night-time cherry blossom) event with glowing paper lanterns highlighting the white-pinkish colour of the petals.
Every year in July, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival attracts more than one million visitors for one of the city’s biggest fireworks displays. People arrive along the banks of the Sumida River from early afternoon to eat, drink and jostle for a good view of one or both of the two main launch sites. As one of the most well-known events in Tokyo’s calendar, the festival gets very crowded, so try to arrive in Asakusa way ahead of time if you want to get settled and soak up the atmosphere.
Wherever you are in Japan, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Check out our guides to the best things to do at night in Kyoto and Osaka for more memorable evening experiences!
Tokyo’s yearly calendar is filled with unique events that celebrate the changing of the seasons. Whenever you plan to visit, it’s worth aligning your trip with some of Tokyo’s traditional evening celebrations.
Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Japan, and yozakura events are one of the highlights of the city’s calendar. On average, the cherry blossoms in Tokyo start blooming in mid-March and last for around two weeks.
One of the most famous places to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo is Ueno Park, where the cherry trees will be lit up at night during peak season. The cherry blossom promenade along Meguro River is also worth visiting at night. Every spring, pink paper lanterns light up the river meandering through the neighbourhood of Naka-Meguro in beautiful colours. Even when the cherry blossom season is nearing its end, you won’t regret passing by this dreamy place, as the petals will be floating down the river like a pink carpet.
Evening yozakura illuminations over the Meguro River
During summer, the streets of Tokyo are filled with small festivals, cultural gatherings and outdoor events that linger long after the sun goes down. This is a great time to don a traditional yukata, sample some street food and let off steam after a day in the sun.
In particular, Tokyo’s summer fireworks are not to be missed. Alongside the Sumida River Fireworks, there are also big displays at the Edogawa Fireworks Festival and further afield at the Tonegawa Fireworks Festival, as well as many smaller displays throughout the city.
Autumn in Japan is all about the stunning colours of the leaves, and Tokyo is no different. While you’ll be able to catch the changing leaves at parks and temples all across Tokyo, the city also has its fair share of illuminations that showcase the changing colours in all their glory.
One of the more popular spots for nocturnal viewings is Rikugien Gardens near Komagome Station. Created during the Edo Period, this Japanese landscape garden offers a variety of vantage points where you can enjoy the crimson leaves, including a tea house next to a carefully landscaped pond.
For winter, Tokyo’s countless holiday illuminations are perfect for a romantic stroll through the city. In Roppongi, the Midtown Christmas Illumination and the Roppongi Hills Winter Illumination both start in mid-November and last throughout December. For the Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination in December, thousands of sparkling blue lights illuminate a row of trees leading up to Yoyogi Park.
Odaiba is an artificial island in the Tokyo Bay area. The easiest way to access Odaiba is on the Yurikamome Line, which will lead you through a jungle of skyscrapers and over the famous Rainbow Bridge.
For the best night view of the Rainbow Bridge, exit the train at Daiba Station and head to the observation deck right next to Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty. At night, the bridge is illuminated by brilliant white light. The famous rainbow-coloured illumination can only be seen throughout December, accompanied by a short firework sequence at 7 pmp every Saturday.
Odaiba is pretty quiet after dark, and there aren’t many restaurant or bar options compared to some of the city’s other evening hangouts. But if you’re looking for a beautiful photo spot, sunset on the beach or a relaxing walk along the promenade, Odaiba is a good place to experience the calmer side of Tokyo at night.
Golden Gai is one of the most atmospheric spots in Tokyo for bar hopping. With over 200 small bars scattered over several cramped alleyways in Shinjuku, this popular nightlife spot is a memorable place to spend an evening with friends.
The history of this district goes back to the late 1940s and 50s. Before turning into an area filled with bars, pubs and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, it was mostly known for its black market. If you’re unsure where to start your evening in Golden Gai, you could also consider booking a guided bar or food tour to the area online.
Once you’ve tried a couple of Golden Gai’s restaurants, Shinjuku has plenty of other nightlife to explore. Explore the tight alleys of Omoide Yokocho for a throwback to some of the city’s traditional nightlife haunts, or dip your toe into the bar and club scene of Shinjuku’s most notorious district, Kabukicho.
With world-famous dishes like sushi, ramen, and tonkatsu around every corner, sampling Tokyo’s food culture is an essential part of any trip to the Japanese capital. But that doesn’t mean you have to limit your culinary experience to Japanese food. In fact, Tokyo has a lot more to offer.
Amidst the worldwide boom of Korean popular culture, Shin-Okubo (also known as Tokyo’s Koreatown) has risen in popularity with both locals and international visitors over the last two decades. The area is conveniently accessible on the Yamanote Line, only one stop away from Shinjuku Station.
Shin-Okubo experienced its first boom in the early 2000s when the TV series Winter Sonata turned out to be a huge success in Japan. Nowadays, new trends revolve around all aspects of Korean popular culture including music, drama, fashion, beauty, and food.
If you want to restock on Korean skin care products, discover the newest street food trends, or simply experience a lesser-known side of Tokyo, this is the place to go.
Many shops and eateries in the area are open until 10 pm. or later, making Shin-Okubo a great option for a night-time adventure. Don’t forget to check out some of the side streets, where you’ll find hidden restaurants and bars waiting to be explored.
Just one stop on the Yamanote line from the bustle of Shibuya, Ebisu offers a more upmarket vibe for your evening out in Tokyo. The district takes its name from the famous Yebisu beer, which used to be brewed in the area. Little nods to this brewing past are all over the neighbourhood, including the area’s beer-shaped street lamps.
True to its roots, Ebisu is still a great place for some food and drinks. Think international restaurants, cosy pubs and effortlessly chic cocktail bars – including a couple with hidden entrances. Bar TRENCH from the Netflix series Midnight Asia is also located here.
Both sides of Ebisu Station are good for exploring, with bars and restaurants frequented by expats and locals alike. Try the pubs and restaurants on the east side of the station, or wander over to the north-west side of the station for watering holes with a more residential vibe.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs, continue your evening by strolling through the nearby Daikanyama area or on to Naka-Meguro, which has nightlife of its own along the river and under the train tracks.
As one of Tokyo’s most beloved night activities, you can’t leave Japan without trying karaoke at least once.
Bigger chains such as Big Echo or Joysound are scattered all over the city, so you shouldn’t face any difficulties finding a suitable place to sing the night away.
You don’t need to worry about the language barrier either. Not only can you change the language settings of the music tablet in your room to English, but songs are also available in multiple languages aside from Japanese.
Karaoke rooms tend to be more expensive over the weekend, including Fridays. If you want to save some money, plan your karaoke night on a regular weekday.
Known for its international atmosphere, Roppongi allows you to explore the modern side of Tokyo. The streets of this bustling district are heaving with entertainment options, from theatres, art museums and shopping centres to high-end bars, pubs and clubs.
When the sun sets, Roppongi turns into one of the best nightlife districts in Tokyo. If you‘re into clubbing and bar hopping, you’re in the right place.
You’ll find arcades everywhere in Tokyo, but Akihabara has them in abundance. Known as the electronic hub of the city, this district will make every gamer’s heart overflow with joy. If you’re visiting during the day, make sure to check out some of the retro game stores, too.
Whether you’re looking for crane and gacha machines, rhythm and dance games, or a heated Mario Kart battle, Tokyo’s Electric Town won’t let you down. Many of the arcades are open until late in the evening. Dipping in and out of these stores or simply taking in the neon lights and illuminated signs of Akihabara is a memorable way to spend an evening in Tokyo.
Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are some of Tokyo’s most popular attractions. But many travellers don’t know that Tokyo also has several other theme parks that you can visit for special evening events.
Yomiuri Land, an amusement park located on the outskirts of Tokyo, is known for its Jewellumination winter light up, which makes a spectacular night-time photo spot. Opening hours may vary during the light-up event, so double-check them before your visit just in case.
Tokyo Dome City may not be a theme park in the traditional sense, but it offers a nice selection of activities for an evening out. Relax at the bowling alley, try out the roller skate arena or ride a selection of rollercoasters in the admission-free outdoor amusement area (open until 9 pm). Just be aware that you’ll need to pay for each ride separately.
If you’re looking for a chilled out evening, Tokyo Dome City also has a natural hot spring spa and sauna that are accessible all night long.
Tokyo Dome is one of Japan’s biggest and most famous multipurpose stadiums. If you’re in Tokyo for a big sports event or the visit of a pop superstar, there’s a good chance that this is where you’ll be spending your evening.
The Dome is primarily the home of the Yomiuri Giants baseball team, one of Japan’s biggest and most successful sports teams. It hosts about 70 Giants games a year, making it a great place to experience the unique atmosphere of a Japanese baseball game.
When it’s not hosting Giants games, Tokyo Dome packs its schedule with everything from concerts to boxing matches. You can find an event calendar with upcoming concerts on their official website.
As one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Japan’s capital has a variety of unique experiences to offer at night. Why not make your next night out in Tokyo even more memorable by adding some of the above activities to your travel plans?
If you’re on your first trip to Tokyo, you can combine many of these night-time activities with day excursions to some of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods. Check out our Tokyo itinerary for first-timers to make the most of your trip to the city.
From skyscrapers and neon to grungy restaurants and bars, the ever-changing city of Tokyo has a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
At night, the city turns into an ocean of infinite lights that’s ripe for exploring. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or on your first trip to Tokyo, you’ll discover something new around every corner. Here are the best things to do in Tokyo at night.
Things to Do in Tokyo at Night
Enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife to its fullest with the activities in the list below.
1. Explore the Streets of Shibuya
Shibuya is one of the top attractions for anyone travelling to Tokyo. At the heart of this charismatic jumble of shops, restaurants, department stores and clubs is Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world. During peak times, up to 3,000 people cross the street every time the traffic lights turn green.
While Shibuya is worth a visit at any time of the day, the area really comes to life at night. The best spot to view the Shibuya crossing from above is the second floor of Starbucks, located right next to exit A6b of Shibuya Station. Grab yourself a matcha latte and enjoy the view for a while – but don’t leave yet! Shibuya has even more to offer.
The streets of Shibuya are filled with hundreds of restaurants, bars and izakaya, making it one of the city’s premier destinations for an evening meal or drink with friends. A wide selection of clubs also makes sure that the fun keeps going into the early hours.
2. Visit Shibuya Sky and Miyashita Park
Shibuya has seen a lot of development over the past few years, including several new skyscrapers that have transformed the city skyline. One of them is Shibuya Scramble Square, which opened its doors to visitors in 2019.
The new skyscraper includes one of Tokyo’s most Instagrammable locations: Shibuya Sky, an observatory deck with a 360° panoramic view. With breathtaking views stretching from downtown Tokyo to Mount Fuji on clear days, this is the ideal spot to chase a picture-perfect sunset and take in the twinkling night lights of the Tokyo metropolis.
Shibuya Sky costs ¥3,400 for admission after 3:00 pm. and is open until 10:30 pm, with final entry at 9:20 pm. Tickets are only available two weeks in advance and often sell out, so we recommend keeping an eye on their official website during your trip. You can also book tickets through third-party sellers like Klook.
Skyscrapers aren’t the only new urban developments in Shibuya. Miyashita Park reopened in 2020 as a modern, multi-purpose facility with new shops, restaurants, and cafés. If you need a break from a busy day of walking, the rooftop park on the uppermost floor is open until 11:00 pm. and features a beach volleyball court, a skate park, and green spaces to relax on mild evenings.
The view from Shibuya Sky at night, with Mt Fuji in the distance
If you’re staying in Tokyo overnight, there is a vast array of accommodation options to choose from. Check out our guide to where to stay in Tokyo to pick the perfect base for your night-time adventures.
3. Watch the Sunset from Tokyo Skytree
While Shibuya Sky offers the newest and most popular night view in Tokyo, it’s just one of many places in the city with a dazzling night-time panorama.
As the tallest tower in the world, Tokyo Skytree will treat you to a unique night view. The 634-meter-high tower is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city, with two observation decks on different levels.
Purchasing your tickets in advance will save you some money. Visitors can choose between two types of tickets, one giving access to only the lower Tembo Deck platform at 350m, or one combined ticket for both the Tembo Deck and the 450m Tembo Galleria platform. You can also opt for a drink at the Skytree Cafe as you look out over the sea of lights.
4. Get the Perfect Shot of Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is one of the capital’s most iconic night-time sights. If you’re into anime, you might remember this landmark from a variety of famous shows, including Sailor Moon. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, its history dates back to 1958.
When night falls in Tokyo, the 333m-high building lights up the night in warm shades of orange. Every Monday and Thursday, the lighting changes to special colours that vary depending on the time of the year. On the night of the full moon, the lights on the top half of the tower are turned off to accent the ethereal beauty of the moonlight.
Popular spots to view Tokyo Tower include Shiba Park at the base of the tower, Sakurada-dori Avenue running south towards Keio University, and in and around Roppongi Hills. If previous visits to Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Skytree weren’t enough, you can also enjoy a view of the city skyline from inside Tokyo Tower itself.
5. Explore Asakusa at Night
Asakusa is Tokyo’s traditional district and home to the city’s oldest temple, Sensō-ji. Built in 645 AD, the temple houses a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, which was pulled from the Sumida River in ancient times, and has been concealed from public view for centuries.
The temple grounds, however, are open to visitors 24 hours a day. While Asakusa is a nice area to explore during the daytime for all the food and souvenir stalls on Nakamise Street, it’s definitely worth a visit at night to see the temple and five-story pagoda illuminated against the night sky.
Since the streets are a lot quieter than during the day, a night visit will allow you to fully appreciate all the details of the architecture and savour your walk through the Kaminarimon gate with its famous red lantern.
6. Walk Along the Sumida River
The Sumida River is only a short walk away from Asakusa Station and offers exquisite night views of Tokyo Skytree. If you’re up for a more traditional experience, you can also book a dinner cruise on a yakatabune, a traditional Tokyo river boat. But there is more to experience depending on the season.
The banks of Sumida River are fringed by cherry trees, which bloom spectacularly in late March. During this time, Sumida Park holds an annual Sakura Festival – including a yozakura (night-time cherry blossom) event with glowing paper lanterns highlighting the white-pinkish colour of the petals.
Every year in July, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival attracts more than one million visitors for one of the city’s biggest fireworks displays. People arrive along the banks of the Sumida River from early afternoon to eat, drink and jostle for a good view of one or both of the two main launch sites. As one of the most well-known events in Tokyo’s calendar, the festival gets very crowded, so try to arrive in Asakusa way ahead of time if you want to get settled and soak up the atmosphere.
Wherever you are in Japan, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Check out our guides to the best things to do at night in Kyoto and Osaka for more memorable evening experiences!
7. Experience Tokyo’s Seasonal Events
Tokyo’s yearly calendar is filled with unique events that celebrate the changing of the seasons. Whenever you plan to visit, it’s worth aligning your trip with some of Tokyo’s traditional evening celebrations.
Spring
Spring is one of the best seasons to visit Japan, and yozakura events are one of the highlights of the city’s calendar. On average, the cherry blossoms in Tokyo start blooming in mid-March and last for around two weeks.
One of the most famous places to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo is Ueno Park, where the cherry trees will be lit up at night during peak season. The cherry blossom promenade along Meguro River is also worth visiting at night. Every spring, pink paper lanterns light up the river meandering through the neighbourhood of Naka-Meguro in beautiful colours. Even when the cherry blossom season is nearing its end, you won’t regret passing by this dreamy place, as the petals will be floating down the river like a pink carpet.
Evening yozakura illuminations over the Meguro River
Summer
During summer, the streets of Tokyo are filled with small festivals, cultural gatherings and outdoor events that linger long after the sun goes down. This is a great time to don a traditional yukata, sample some street food and let off steam after a day in the sun.
In particular, Tokyo’s summer fireworks are not to be missed. Alongside the Sumida River Fireworks, there are also big displays at the Edogawa Fireworks Festival and further afield at the Tonegawa Fireworks Festival, as well as many smaller displays throughout the city.
Autumn
Autumn in Japan is all about the stunning colours of the leaves, and Tokyo is no different. While you’ll be able to catch the changing leaves at parks and temples all across Tokyo, the city also has its fair share of illuminations that showcase the changing colours in all their glory.
One of the more popular spots for nocturnal viewings is Rikugien Gardens near Komagome Station. Created during the Edo Period, this Japanese landscape garden offers a variety of vantage points where you can enjoy the crimson leaves, including a tea house next to a carefully landscaped pond.
Winter
For winter, Tokyo’s countless holiday illuminations are perfect for a romantic stroll through the city. In Roppongi, the Midtown Christmas Illumination and the Roppongi Hills Winter Illumination both start in mid-November and last throughout December. For the Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination in December, thousands of sparkling blue lights illuminate a row of trees leading up to Yoyogi Park.
8. Enjoy the Night View of Tokyo Bay in Odaiba
Odaiba is an artificial island in the Tokyo Bay area. The easiest way to access Odaiba is on the Yurikamome Line, which will lead you through a jungle of skyscrapers and over the famous Rainbow Bridge.
For the best night view of the Rainbow Bridge, exit the train at Daiba Station and head to the observation deck right next to Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty. At night, the bridge is illuminated by brilliant white light. The famous rainbow-coloured illumination can only be seen throughout December, accompanied by a short firework sequence at 7 pmp every Saturday.
Odaiba is pretty quiet after dark, and there aren’t many restaurant or bar options compared to some of the city’s other evening hangouts. But if you’re looking for a beautiful photo spot, sunset on the beach or a relaxing walk along the promenade, Odaiba is a good place to experience the calmer side of Tokyo at night.
9. Go Bar Hopping in Golden Gai
Golden Gai is one of the most atmospheric spots in Tokyo for bar hopping. With over 200 small bars scattered over several cramped alleyways in Shinjuku, this popular nightlife spot is a memorable place to spend an evening with friends.
The history of this district goes back to the late 1940s and 50s. Before turning into an area filled with bars, pubs and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, it was mostly known for its black market. If you’re unsure where to start your evening in Golden Gai, you could also consider booking a guided bar or food tour to the area online.
Once you’ve tried a couple of Golden Gai’s restaurants, Shinjuku has plenty of other nightlife to explore. Explore the tight alleys of Omoide Yokocho for a throwback to some of the city’s traditional nightlife haunts, or dip your toe into the bar and club scene of Shinjuku’s most notorious district, Kabukicho.
10. Try All the Korean Food in Shin-Okubo
With world-famous dishes like sushi, ramen, and tonkatsu around every corner, sampling Tokyo’s food culture is an essential part of any trip to the Japanese capital. But that doesn’t mean you have to limit your culinary experience to Japanese food. In fact, Tokyo has a lot more to offer.
Amidst the worldwide boom of Korean popular culture, Shin-Okubo (also known as Tokyo’s Koreatown) has risen in popularity with both locals and international visitors over the last two decades. The area is conveniently accessible on the Yamanote Line, only one stop away from Shinjuku Station.
Shin-Okubo experienced its first boom in the early 2000s when the TV series Winter Sonata turned out to be a huge success in Japan. Nowadays, new trends revolve around all aspects of Korean popular culture including music, drama, fashion, beauty, and food.
If you want to restock on Korean skin care products, discover the newest street food trends, or simply experience a lesser-known side of Tokyo, this is the place to go.
Many shops and eateries in the area are open until 10 pm. or later, making Shin-Okubo a great option for a night-time adventure. Don’t forget to check out some of the side streets, where you’ll find hidden restaurants and bars waiting to be explored.
11. Have a Drink in Ebisu
Just one stop on the Yamanote line from the bustle of Shibuya, Ebisu offers a more upmarket vibe for your evening out in Tokyo. The district takes its name from the famous Yebisu beer, which used to be brewed in the area. Little nods to this brewing past are all over the neighbourhood, including the area’s beer-shaped street lamps.
True to its roots, Ebisu is still a great place for some food and drinks. Think international restaurants, cosy pubs and effortlessly chic cocktail bars – including a couple with hidden entrances. Bar TRENCH from the Netflix series Midnight Asia is also located here.
Both sides of Ebisu Station are good for exploring, with bars and restaurants frequented by expats and locals alike. Try the pubs and restaurants on the east side of the station, or wander over to the north-west side of the station for watering holes with a more residential vibe.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs, continue your evening by strolling through the nearby Daikanyama area or on to Naka-Meguro, which has nightlife of its own along the river and under the train tracks.
12. Sing the Night Away in a Karaoke Room
As one of Tokyo’s most beloved night activities, you can’t leave Japan without trying karaoke at least once.
Bigger chains such as Big Echo or Joysound are scattered all over the city, so you shouldn’t face any difficulties finding a suitable place to sing the night away.
You don’t need to worry about the language barrier either. Not only can you change the language settings of the music tablet in your room to English, but songs are also available in multiple languages aside from Japanese.
Karaoke rooms tend to be more expensive over the weekend, including Fridays. If you want to save some money, plan your karaoke night on a regular weekday.
13. Experience Roppongi’s Nightlife
Known for its international atmosphere, Roppongi allows you to explore the modern side of Tokyo. The streets of this bustling district are heaving with entertainment options, from theatres, art museums and shopping centres to high-end bars, pubs and clubs.
When the sun sets, Roppongi turns into one of the best nightlife districts in Tokyo. If you‘re into clubbing and bar hopping, you’re in the right place.
14. Get Competitive in Akihabara’s Arcades
You’ll find arcades everywhere in Tokyo, but Akihabara has them in abundance. Known as the electronic hub of the city, this district will make every gamer’s heart overflow with joy. If you’re visiting during the day, make sure to check out some of the retro game stores, too.
Whether you’re looking for crane and gacha machines, rhythm and dance games, or a heated Mario Kart battle, Tokyo’s Electric Town won’t let you down. Many of the arcades are open until late in the evening. Dipping in and out of these stores or simply taking in the neon lights and illuminated signs of Akihabara is a memorable way to spend an evening in Tokyo.
15. Visit Yomiuri Land and Tokyo Dome City
Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are some of Tokyo’s most popular attractions. But many travellers don’t know that Tokyo also has several other theme parks that you can visit for special evening events.
Yomiuri Land, an amusement park located on the outskirts of Tokyo, is known for its Jewellumination winter light up, which makes a spectacular night-time photo spot. Opening hours may vary during the light-up event, so double-check them before your visit just in case.
Tokyo Dome City may not be a theme park in the traditional sense, but it offers a nice selection of activities for an evening out. Relax at the bowling alley, try out the roller skate arena or ride a selection of rollercoasters in the admission-free outdoor amusement area (open until 9 pm). Just be aware that you’ll need to pay for each ride separately.
If you’re looking for a chilled out evening, Tokyo Dome City also has a natural hot spring spa and sauna that are accessible all night long.
16. Attend a Baseball Match at Tokyo Dome
Tokyo Dome is one of Japan’s biggest and most famous multipurpose stadiums. If you’re in Tokyo for a big sports event or the visit of a pop superstar, there’s a good chance that this is where you’ll be spending your evening.
The Dome is primarily the home of the Yomiuri Giants baseball team, one of Japan’s biggest and most successful sports teams. It hosts about 70 Giants games a year, making it a great place to experience the unique atmosphere of a Japanese baseball game.
When it’s not hosting Giants games, Tokyo Dome packs its schedule with everything from concerts to boxing matches. You can find an event calendar with upcoming concerts on their official website.
Conclusion – The Best Things to Do in Tokyo at Night
As one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Japan’s capital has a variety of unique experiences to offer at night. Why not make your next night out in Tokyo even more memorable by adding some of the above activities to your travel plans?
If you’re on your first trip to Tokyo, you can combine many of these night-time activities with day excursions to some of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods. Check out our Tokyo itinerary for first-timers to make the most of your trip to the city.