Tokyo’s drinking tours offer authentic ways to experience Japan’s vibrant nightlife culture. The standout is the Shibuya bar crawl – a well-organized 3-hour tour that combines cultural education with quality sake tastings. In Shinjuku, we’re impressed by the hands-on sushi and sake pairing tour, where you’ll learn from local experts while enjoying premium drinks.
We especially love the Ginza izakaya tour for its off-the-beaten-path approach. Local guides take small groups to family-run establishments that travelers rarely find on their own. The Wagyu and sake experience delivers excellent value, combining two of Japan’s finest traditions.
Most tours run 2-3 hours and cost between $75-150 per person. Let’s look at our favorite drinking tours in Tokyo.
Key Points
- Tokyo offers a variety of high-rated nightlife and bar hopping tours, including the 3-hour Shibuya Local Bar and Izakaya Crawl Tour and the Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour.
- Sake tasting experiences, such as the Hirezake Experience in Roppongi and the Casual Sake Tasting in Kabukicho, provide opportunities to sample diverse sake varieties.
- Culinary tours, like the Tokyo Shinjuku Yasukuni Sushi Making Class and the Asakusa Cultural Bar Tour, combine food and drink experiences with cultural insights.
- Unique and private tours, such as the Tokyo Ginza Unknown Izakaya Hopping and the Private Tokyo Local Food and Drink Tour, offer personalized drinking experiences.
- Many tours provide cultural engagement, high traveler ratings, reservation flexibility, and diverse offerings to cater to different tastes and accessibility needs.
3-Hour Shibuya Local Bar and Izakaya Crawl Tour
The 3-Hour Shibuya Local Bar and Izakaya Crawl Tour offers travelers an immersive experience into Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife.
With its 98% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an engaging exploration of Shibuya’s local bars and izakayas.
Knowledgeable English-speaking guides lead the way, providing cultural insights and sake tastings. Participants can enjoy a lively group atmosphere, making new friends while indulging in delicious light bites and alcoholic beverages.
The tour concludes with a karaoke session, allowing visitors to truly embrace Japanese drinking culture.
While not suitable for those with accessibility needs, this 3-hour excursion provides an unforgettable glimpse into Shibuya’s after-dark allure.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Shibuya Local Bar and Izakaya Crawl Tour Review
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Tokyo Shinjuku Yasukuni: Sushi Making Class With Sake Tasting
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience can embark on the Tokyo Shinjuku Yasukuni: Sushi Making Class With Sake Tasting.
This 3-hour tour takes participants through a hands-on sushi-making lesson, followed by a sake tasting. Guests will learn to prepare traditional nigiri sushi under the guidance of an experienced sushi chef.
Afterward, they’ll sample a variety of premium sake, exploring its flavors and quality. With a 4.9-star rating from 320 reviews, this tour provides an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the art of sushi and the nuances of Japanese sake.
Priced at $116.69 per person, it offers a well-rounded culture for food and drink enthusiasts visiting Tokyo.
Read our full review: Tokyo Shinjuku Yasukuni: Sushi Making Class With Sake Tasting Review
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Tsukiji Market Eating Tour, Authentic Sushi & Sake Comparison
This Tsukiji Market Eating Tour, Authentic Sushi & Sake Comparison offers a delectable journey through Tokyo’s vibrant culinary landscape.
With a maximum group size of 6 and 100% positive reviews, this 5-star rated experience showcases the best of Tsukiji Market. Guests can expect to sample authentic sushi and three types of traditional sake, all while exploring nearby temples and browsing seafood stalls.
The knowledgeable guide, particularly praised for their enthusiasm, provides personal insights and answers questions. Accessibility is limited, but the tour is suitable for most travelers.
With free cancellation and private transport options, this is an immersive and well-reviewed way to discover Tokyo’s renowned food and drink scene.
Read our full review: Tsukiji Market Eating Tour, Authentic Sushi & Sake Comparison Review
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Tokyo Ginza Unknown Izakaya Hopping W/ Pro-Photographer
Venturing beyond the bustling Tsukiji Market, this Tokyo Ginza Unknown Izakaya Hopping experience with a pro-photographer offers an immersive foray into the city’s vibrant after-hours culture.
Over 4 hours, you’ll visit 3 local izakayas, sampling 7-10 authentic Japanese dishes accompanied by up to 4 drinks at each location.
The small group size of 8 ensures an intimate, personalized experience led by an English-speaking guide.
Along the way, you’ll stop at hidden gems and viewpoints for photo opportunities captured by the professional photographer.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour provides a unique blend of food, drinks, and photography in the heart of Tokyo’s Ginza district.
Read our full review: Tokyo Ginza Unknown Izakaya Hopping W/ Pro-Photographer Review
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Savor Wagyu & Sake Pairing in Shinjuku
Nestled within the bustling Shinjuku district, Ushinobi offers an immersive Wagyu and sake pairing experience.
Boasting a 5-star rating from 43 reviews, this intimate affair accommodates a maximum of 8 guests. The menu highlights premium Wagyu delicacies, from grilled beef tongue to sirloin steak, perfectly paired with a curated selection of sakes.
Guests can expect knowledgeable hosts, generous portions, and excellent value for money. The experience is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as infant seating.
Priced at $153.37 per person, this Wagyu and sake pairing is an excellent addition to any Tokyo itinerary, promising an informative and entertaining culinary journey.
Read our full review: Savor Wagyu & Sake Pairing in Shinjuku Review
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Tokyo After Dark: The Ultimate Shinjuku Local Bar&Food Tour
Immersing visitors in the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku, the 3-hour “Tokyo Night-Out: Shinjuku Bar&Food Tour with Friendly Guide” offers a captivating exploration of the district’s local haunts.
Priced from $106.68 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 6 participants) takes guests through the iconic Omoide Yokocho and Kabukicho neighborhoods, showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine and drinks.
Highlights include sampling local specialties like chicken skewers, whale meat, sake, and sours, as well as exploring the neon-lit streets and the famous Godzilla statue.
With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leading the way, this tour provides an immersive after-dark experience of Shinjuku’s lively atmosphere.
Read our full review: Tokyo After Dark: The Ultimate Shinjuku Local Bar&Food Tour Review
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Private Tokyo Local Food and Drink Tour With a Bar Hopping Master
For visitors seeking a more intimate exploration of Tokyo’s vibrant local drinking culture, the Private Tokyo Local Food and Drink Tour With a Bar Hopping Master offers an immersive experience.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 2-hour tour takes guests on a journey through izakaya bars in districts like Ueno, Shinbashi, or Ikebukuro.
Participants can sample small dishes and drinks at three different venues, with one of each included.
Praised for its fun, hospitable atmosphere and cultural insights, the tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors wanting an authentic experience.
With a maximum of 5 travelers, the tour provides personalized service and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to dive into Tokyo’s lively bar scene.
Read our full review: Private Tokyo Local Food and Drink Tour With a Bar Hopping Master Review
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Tokyo: Hidden Gems, Food & Bar Hopping Tour in West Tokyo!
Tucked away in the vibrant neighborhood of Kichijoji, the Backstreet Tokyo Bites tour invites visitors to explore the area’s hidden gems and local bar scene.
Over 4 hours, a group of up to 7 you will enjoy Tokyo’s drinking culture, sampling unique Japanese cuisine and drinks at 4-5 carefully selected izakayas and bars.
Along the way, they’ll learn about Japanese drinking customs and useful phrases for ordering. The tour offers an authentic, intimate experience, engaging with locals in cozy atmospheres and gaining insights into the area’s history and drinking etiquette.
Priced from $90.02 per person, this experience showcases the nostalgic charm of Harmonica Yokocho, a maze of tiny bars reflecting post-World War II aesthetics.
Read our full review: Tokyo: Hidden Gems, Food & Bar Hopping Tour in West Tokyo! Review
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2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno
This private sake pairing tour in Tokyo’s Ueno neighborhood offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s vibrant izakaya culture.
With a 5.0 rating from 37 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, the tour focuses on local izakayas away from tourist spots. It includes a welcome drink, while food and additional drinks are at guests’ own cost.
The evening tour along Ueno’s Ameyoko Shopping Street provides personalized attention in a private group setting. Participants can enjoy alcoholic beverages, including sake from various Japanese prefectures, and snacks that complement the drinks.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 18 for alcoholic drinks.
Read our full review: 2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno Review
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Tokyo: Shinjuku Panorama & Peace Tour With Izakaya Dinner
Enjoy the vibrant Shinjuku district on this panoramic and culturally-enriching tour.
You’ll start by taking in the stunning views of Tokyo from the Shinjuku Skyscraper District, before exploring the iconic Meiji Shrine and Shibuya Crossing.
The tour culminates in an authentic izakaya dinner experience, where you’ll sample a variety of traditional Japanese pub foods and drinks.
With an expert local guide to lead the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and traditions that make Tokyo such a captivating destination.
At 4.9 out of 5 stars from 331 reviews, this tour offers an unbeatable way to experience the best of Shinjuku.
Read our full review: Tokyo: Shinjuku Panorama & Peace Tour With Izakaya Dinner Review
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3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya
Shift your nightlife experience to the bustling Shibuya district with this 3-hour Tokyo pub crawl. Ideal for solo travelers or groups, you’ll visit 2-4 nightlife venues, enjoy several shots, and dance to local DJs.
With 98% of 163 traveler recommendations, this tour provides a fun way to meet new people and explore Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. Included are five alcoholic shots, unlimited free shots between venues, and your own drinks at each venue.
Starting at 7 PM, this tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. While not wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation in Shibuya.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya Review
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Experience Hiresake and Compare Sake at Sushibar in Roppongi
Visitors to Roppongi’s Sushi & Bar 琴 can enjoy a unique sake tasting and hirezake experience.
The 1.5-hour activity is limited to 10 participants and conducted in English. For $80.01 per person, guests can taste and compare ten different sake varieties and sample Japanese delicacies.
The experience includes the traditional flaming sake, hirezake, served in authentic cups. Attendees can also wear Japanese costumes and receive a souvenir for leaving a review.
Reservations can be made without upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The meeting point is easily accessible, with directions provided via Google Maps.
Read our full review: Experience Hiresake and Compare Sake at Sushibar in Roppongi Review
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Private Tokyo Food Scene 6 Hour Experience: Depatika, Street Food, Izakaya
This 6-hour private Tokyo food scene experience takes travelers on a culinary journey through three distinct neighborhoods – Ikebukuro, Jujonakahara, and Akabane.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes street food, traditional izakaya meals, and visits to local bars.
Covering transportation, all food and drinks (including alcoholic beverages), and gratuities, this is an ideal option for active travelers seeking an immersive taste of Tokyo’s vibrant food culture.
The tour starts at Ikebukuro Station and ends at Akabane Station, with pickup and drop-off service provided.
Available daily from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the tour is priced from $238.44 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Tokyo Food Scene 6 Hour Experience: Depatika, Street Food, Izakaya Review
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Casual Japanese Sake Tasting and Snack Experience, Kabukicho
For those seeking an immersive introduction to Japan’s sake culture, the Casual Japanese Sake Tasting and Snack Experience in Kabukicho offers a delightful opportunity.
Priced from €37.85 per person, this one-day small group activity includes samplings of 8 unique sake varieties, averaging 15-16% alcohol content, paired with traditional Japanese snacks.
The experience is led by English and Japanese-speaking staff, with the option of a translation device. While not wheelchair accessible, the location is just a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.
With a 5/5 rating from 6 reviews, this sake tasting tour promises a memorable cultural encounter for adults over 20, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Casual Japanese Sake Tasting and Snack Experience, Kabukicho Review
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Tokyo the Izakaya Tour
Frequently, travelers embark on the immersive Tokyo the Izakaya Tour, a quintessential experience that immerses them in the vibrant world of Japanese izakaya culture.
With a 5.0-star rating and 100% recommendation from past participants, this 3-hour tour offers an exceptional introduction to Tokyo’s renowned drinking establishments. Guests enjoy one drink and a variety of local dishes at each of the carefully selected venues, all while learning about Japanese customs and cuisine from a knowledgeable guide.
Capped at a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience, complete with hotel pickup and drop-off.
Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned Tokyo enthusiast, the Tokyo the Izakaya Tour promises an unforgettable evening of culinary discovery.
Read our full review: Tokyo the Izakaya Tour Review
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7 Sake Tastings With a Food to Choose at Toyosu
One of the premier sake tasting experiences in Tokyo can be found at Toyosu, home to a variety of acclaimed sake breweries.
Visitors can embark on a guided sake tasting tour, sampling a range of premium sakes accompanied by a food pairing selected to complement the flavors.
The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, production, and tasting notes of each sake, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.
This activity typically lasts around 2-3 hours and is priced at approximately $50-$100 per person, depending on the specific inclusions.
It’s an excellent way to explore the rich culture and traditions of Japanese sake while savoring delicious flavors.
Read our full review: 7 Sake Tastings With a Food to Choose at Toyosu Review
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Small Group Guided Sake Tasting Experience in Tsukiji, Near Ginza
What better way to dive into the rich sake culture of Tokyo than with a small group guided sake tasting experience in Tsukiji, near the vibrant Ginza district?
This highly-rated tour offers a chance to sample a diverse selection of sakes, from the standard daiginjo to the rare seasonal varieties.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate and educational tasting led by knowledgeable guides.
The tour includes a selection of snacks to complement the sakes.
At just $64.76 per person, this experience provides excellent value and an opportunity to discover the nuances of this beloved Japanese beverage.
Read our full review: Small Group Guided Sake Tasting Experience in Tsukiji, Near Ginza Review
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Tokyo: Best Local Bar Hopping Tour in Shibuya!
For those seeking an immersive dive into Shibuya’s vibrant bar scene, the Tokyo: Bar Hopping Tour in Shibuya is an excursion not to be missed.
Spanning 3 hours, this guided tour takes visitors to three hidden izakaya bars, providing a taste of local culture and cuisine. Participants can enjoy four drinks and four authentic dishes, while gaining insights from knowledgeable guides.
With a small group size, the experience offers an intimate exploration of this lively neighborhood. Accessible for wheelchair users and suitable for those 20 and older, the tour provides a convenient and curated way to discover Shibuya’s hidden bar gems.
Read our full review: Tokyo: Best Local Bar Hopping Tour in Shibuya! Review
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Bar Hopping Tour With Local Guide in Shinjuku
Shingo’s Bar Hopping Tour in Shinjuku takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant nightlife.
With a 100% recommendation rate and 5-star reviews, this tour offers an exceptional experience. Guests will savor a delightful menu, including skewered chicken, Japanese-style dumplings, assorted sashimi, and karaage.
The tour also includes local sake, as well as private transportation and a professional guide. Meeting at the UNIQLO Shinjuku West, the tour explores the area’s hidden gems before returning to the starting point.
Travelers praise Shingo’s expertise and communication, making this bar hopping adventure a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Tokyo’s nightlife.
Read our full review: Bar Hopping Tour With Local Guide in Shinjuku Review
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Bar Hopping Like a Local Japanese.
This bar hopping tour offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to explore Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife like a local.
Over the course of 2 hours, you will discover over 100 authentic street izakayas, accompanied by local guides. The itinerary includes regional food tasting, as well as sampling a variety of aperitifs, beers, cocktails, and wines.
While not suitable for pregnant women or those under 21, the tour aims to expose guests to real Japanese food culture and nightlife. Priced from $20 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
However, some past customers have provided mixed reviews, citing perceptions of being overcharged and a lack of promised services.
Read our full review: Bar Hopping Like a Local Japanese. Review
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Tasting ALL TYPES of Sake With Seminar
Travelers seeking a deeper dive into Japan’s iconic beverage can embark on a sake tasting experience led by an expert sommelier in Tokyo.
This 6-7 sample session allows guests to learn the intricacies of sake, including how to decode labels and pair the drinks with food.
The tasting takes place in central Tokyo, with a maximum of 20 participants per session.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation and suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant women or those with serious medical conditions.
With 135 reviews and a 5-star rating, this seminar promises an informative and entertaining exploration of Japan’s premier alcoholic beverage.
Read our full review: Tasting ALL TYPES of Sake With Seminar Review
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Private Guided Bar Hopping With Food and Drink in Shinjuku
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Shinjuku’s vibrant bar scene, a private guided bar hopping experience offers an unparalleled opportunity.
The 2-hour tour, priced from $26.67 per person, takes participants on a journey through hidden bars and izakayas known only to locals. A licensed guide leads the way, providing insights into Japanese underground culture and accessing bars that don’t accept general customers, like the Golden Gai area.
Participants can expect to sample a variety of food and drinks, with the guide’s expenses covered. This tour is ideal for those over 20, offering a safe and comfortable way to experience Shinjuku’s lively atmosphere.
Read our full review: Private Guided Bar Hopping With Food and Drink in Shinjuku Review
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7 Kinds of Sake Tasting With Complementary Foods
Within Kikai Shinkō Kaikan in Minato City, Tokyo, travelers can partake in an immersive sake tasting experience complemented by traditional Japanese dishes.
The experience includes 7 different kinds of sake, from premium Daiginjo to unfiltered Nigori, as well as 7 complementary dishes. A nationally accredited sake instructor guides guests through the tasting and provides educational insights into sake production and pairing.
With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, this personalized experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and conveniently located near public transportation.
Priced from $112.47 per person, the experience receives 5-star reviews for its knowledgeable staff, excellent food pairings, and engaging educational components.
Read our full review: 7 Kinds of Sake Tasting With Complementary Foods Review
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Tokyo: Yume ORIGIN Hostess Bar Entry Ticket
Visitors can access the exclusive Yume ORIGIN hostess bar in Tokyo, seeing the city’s vibrant nightlife. Entry tickets start from €44.16 per person for a 1-hour experience. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later.
The bar offers a modern, timeless atmosphere and has been featured in the Tokyo Vice series. Hostesses provide exceptional service, and basic drinks like highballs and lemon sours are included.
While the bar is wheelchair accessible, it’s only suitable for those 20 and older. Customers should note that drinks for hostesses cost extra, with an overall rating of 2/5 based on one review.
Read our full review: Tokyo: Yume ORIGIN Hostess Bar Entry Ticket Review
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Asakusa: Culture Exploring Bar Visits After History Tour
After exploring the exclusive Yume ORIGIN hostess bar, visitors can enjoy the cultural richness of Asakusa through a guided tour that combines history and local bar visits.
This 5-star rated tour takes travelers on a journey through Asakusa’s iconic landmarks, followed by visits to charming bars that offer a glimpse into the district’s lively nightlife.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour includes a full meal with 3-4 drinks, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Priced from $163.59 per person, the tour starts at 3 PM and departs from the Burger King near Asakusa subway station, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Asakusa: Culture Exploring Bar Visits After History Tour Review
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Recap
Tokyo offers a diverse range of drinking tours, from local bar crawls to sushi-making classes with sake tastings. Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant izakaya scene, sample premium wagyu and sake pairings, or enjoy the unique atmosphere of a hostess bar. Whether you’re a foodie, a sake enthusiast, or simply looking to experience Tokyo’s nightlife, these tours provide an engaging and authentic way to discover the city’s drinking culture.