Going out in Japan — Exploring Tokyo's Yokocho Culture in 2024

Tokyo’s traditional nightlife offers a unique chance to experience a different side of the city, with the yokocho—narrow alleyways lined with bars and eateries—providing an intimate and authentic glimpse into this local Tokyo culture.

Originating in the post-war period as bustling hubs for cheap eats and drinks, some yokocho have evolved—moving indoors, gaining aesthetic appeal, and becoming more accessible as a result. Let’s explore some examples of this blend of history and modernity, that make yokocho a fascinating aspect of Tokyo’s cultural landscape.

Step back in time to old Tokyo — Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho

Step back into 1950s Showa-era Tokyo with a visit to the charming alleyways of Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho. Located just meters from Shibuya Station, this nostalgic yokocho is home to 39 small bars and eateries. Stores like Magurodokoro or Chotto Yottette offer traditional Japanese foods prepared fresh by charismatic owners adept at telling a tale or two. Enjoy a few drinks and dishes, elbow-to-elbow with locals in the cosy, close quarters. Not all stores can easily serve English-speaking guests, but most are welcoming and acknowledge reaching new audiences is vital.

Given limited seating space, consider visiting in a smaller group (e.g. 2 people) and make sure to order, eat and drink in a timely fashion out of respect for waiting regular customers. Please refrain from visiting just to take photos out of respect for Nonbei Yokocho’s operators and customers.

A next-gen yokocho in Kabukicho — Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho

Shinjuku’s Kabukicho Tower opened in April 2023 and is home to Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho, a neon-lit, retro-styled entertainment venue. Comprising a next-generation food hall with 10 restaurants, Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho serves up classic Japanese foods from across Japan. To help promote Japan’s unique sakaba (bars, pubs, izakaya) culture to younger audiences, a line-up ranging from DJ performances to festival-style events and idol group performances keeps guests entertained while they dine. On Sundays, you may even glimpse traditional Japanese performances, like katana ‘tate’ sword demonstrations, which add to the authentic vibe and traditional visuals on display. The yokocho is easy to access and open around the clock, with several restaurants open 24/7. Menus at Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho are easy to understand and English translations are also available.

High-end flavors meets laid-back surroundings — Toranomon Yokocho

Toranomon Yokocho arrived in the summer of 2020, bringing together a range of reputable gourmet brands under one roof to provide an innovative approach to Tokyo’s yokocho culture. Here, contemporary design and space combine with traditional Japanese elements to provide a welcoming space that is both entirely new yet also carries a reassuringly familiar yokocho vibe.

From Bird Land’s reputation as a Michelin star-winning yakitori-ya, to ELEZO GATE’s exquisite Hokkaido game dishes, the 26 establishments here include restaurant brands typically renowned for their long queues or acclaimed Honten (main stores). Their new branches at Toranomon Yokocho provide easier access to high-end cuisine that can be savored in a more casual setting.

The charm here lies in experiencing acclaimed flavors in a lively, accessible space designed for mingling. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in exclusive culinary delights— as well as gin distillery—that can only be found at Toranomon Yokocho.

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho

Address 1-25 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo
URL Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho (JPN)

Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho

Address 2F Tokyu Kabuki Tower 1-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
URL Shinjuku Kabuki Hall – Kabuki Yokocho (JPN)

Toranomon Yokocho

Address 3F Toranomon Hills Business Tower, 1-17-1, Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo
URL Toranomon Yokocho

Keywords: Bars & Pubs Drinking & Dining  Entertainment Nightlife Restaurants Retro September 

 Tokyo Local Food