HIDDEN TIPPLES
Tokyo’s bar scene is considered to be one of the most sought a er experiences in travel. Every crevice in the Japanese capital is lled with speakeasies and drinking holes. Prominent neighbourhoods such as Shinjuku, Roppongi, Ginza and Shibuya are packed with a wide selection of premium bars, exclusive restaurants and buzzing nightclubs. Nearly 300 bars and restaurants are squeezed into ‘Golden Gai’, a traditional bar neighbourhood in Shinjuku. We recommend you check out Bar Albatross here, one of the hippest bars in the city that was established in the late 1990s. is kitschy décor space comprises of three storeys, making it easy to accommodate big groups. e menu o ers an impressive mix of cocktails made with houseinfused spirits, warm sake and an expansive wine collection.
If you are looking for some local whisky, head to Bar Zoetrope, a quaint little whisky bar in Shinjuku. Notice the classic lms that play silently in the background while the bartender guides you through the mind-boggling drinks menu. From the rare Yamazaki editions to Nikka Single Malt — this dimly lit bar boasts over 300 varieties of whiskies. Moreover, the bar displays malts from some notable Japanese distilleries, including Mars, Chichibu, White Oak, Karuizawa, and Hanyu.
For a local bar-hopping experience, reserve one evening to walk across Shibuya whilst sipping ‘highballs’ or whisky-sodas at the various pubs here. ough you will come across many izakayas (dinein sake shops), visit Hachigatsu No Kujira, a bar that o ers a cinemainspired ambiance. e walls are adorned with numerous clippings of movie posters. Drinks are quirky and are named a er various popular
lms. We loved a cocktail called ‘small iceberg oating on a sea of brandy’ that instantly reminded us of an iconic movie tragedy (hint: Rose and Jack).
Nestled in the upscale Ginza neighbourhood, Bar High Five is a classic, low-lit Tokyo bar known for sublime drinks and traditional Japanese bartending. ere is no drink menu and the bartenders engage with customers to create bespoke cocktails according to their taste preferences. One of their signature cocktails includes ‘ceremony’ featuring all Japanese ingredients such as Hakusha whiskey, Hermes Green Tea and Suntory Matcha.
Another bar in Ginza to put on your list is Bar Lupin that opened back in 1928. e bar was a once home to the Japanese literati, (supported by writers as Kyoka Izumi and Kan Kikuchi). On the menu, you will nd an impressive selection of cocktails, bourbons, and whiskies. We recommend you try e Golden Fizz, a gin drink made with egg yolk.
JAPANESE DRINKING ETIQUETTE
Know for its royal hospitality, Imperial Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Tokyo. Tucked away in a verdant part of the city in Chiyoda, the hotel boasts beautiful bedrooms, and diverse F&B options like
Les Saisons, an authentic French restaurant; Peking for Chinese cuisine and Old Imperial Bar serving premium spirits from around the world, among others. imperialhotel.co.jp
Located on the Namiki Dori street, Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo is Hyatt’s luxury outpost in Japan. Stay in one of the upscale rooms of the hotel that are equipped with luxurious bath amenities, a flat-screen TV and a Nespresso machine. The property’s aesthetics are centred around themes of cinema, and this is quite evident in its unique yet quirky décor. hyatt.com
Another enviable address, Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo is situated in the Shinjuku district. Ideal for both business and leisure travellers, the hotel boasts versatile accommodation options, a variety of MICE spaces and impressive F&B outlets. We recommend you to opt for one of their traditional experiences like the Japanese tea ceremony celebrated in its traditional tea ceremony room. keioplaza.com
If you enjoy old-world charm and classic hospitality, then book your stay at The Tokyo Station Hotel that aesthetically blends over 100-yearold legacy with Tokyo’s modern outlook. This gorgeous heritage property offer rooms and suites that are complemented with modern amenities. The hotel’s Spa Tokione covers a plethora of wellness facilities for anyone who is looking to relax and rejuvenate. thetokyostationhotel.jp
Situated at the heart of downtown Tokyo in the Chiyoda neighbourhood, The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho,a Luxury Collection Hotel is perfect for your post-work tipples. The hotel’s bar Sky Gallery Lounge Levita is becoming a hotspot for international travellers, thanks to its impressive drinks menu and added stunning city views. marriott.com
If you are longing for a zen-like experience amidst city life then Hotel New Otani Tokyo is the place to be. The property boasts having quality accommodation and facilities for all occasions and also features a 400year old Japanese garden, a famous tourist attraction in Japan. The hotel offers Executive House ZEN, which comprises of well-equipped rooms that are perfectly designed to offer serenity in the middle of the city life. newotani.co.jp