The Best Nightlife Destinations in Japan

If you want to gain more information on the nightlife that occurs in Japan or our highest-rated destination examples stick with this article. If you are visiting Japan from Scotland or the UK seeking an experience akin to a renowned Edinburgh nightclub then our nightclub picks are for you.

Ginza is a high-end nightlife destination with secluded bars and exclusive clubs. It’s also an excellent place to visit if you’re a foreigner. Other hot spots in Tokyo include Roppongi and Dotonbori. If you’re visiting Japan for the first time, it’s worth checking out these destinations to see if they have what you’re looking for.

Ginza

The nightlife scene in Ginza is varied. There are plenty of upscale venues to spend your evenings. You can try the tuxedo-worthy hotel lounges, or go to an Irish pub and dance to global chart music. Roppongi is the international business district and has Irish pubs and mega clubs. If you’re traveling alone, a Ginza nightclub might be a good choice.

While Ginza is known for its expensive shopping and chic restaurants, it is also home to some of the best nightlife venues in the country. Its upscale nightlife scene is a little less crowded than Tokyo’s other districts, but it is still an incredible place to enjoy a drink. Many of the nightclubs and bars are members-only, offering premium drinks and a more intimate environment.

Roppongi

Roppongi is a world-class entertainment district and one of the best places to experience nightlife in Japan. This area is home to clubs with international and local DJs. Contact, for example, features multiple dance floors and plays mostly techno and house music. Another popular club is WWW X, which features pop, alternative, and EDM music. Although built by Allied forces during World War II, Roppongi has now grown into one of the country’s premier nightlife districts.

You can also enjoy nightlife at Roppongi Midas, which consists of five floors, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. The club is the largest in Japan, with three dance floors and several bars. The club is located a bit out of the center, but regular shuttle buses run there from Shibuya. Visitors enjoy a party that rivals the best clubs in London, Berlin, and Edinburgh nightclub.

Dotonbori

The best time to visit Dotonbori is in the evening. This is when the neon lights are shining, and you can enjoy people-watching. Also, there are many restaurants, bars, and shopping areas to explore. Try some of the local cuisine like okonomiyaki, a batter-ball filled with octopus.

The cultural heritage of Dotonbori is also celebrated by its playhouses and theatres. Although the theatre trade has declined a little since World War II, the Shochikuza Theatre still puts on classic kabuki shows. Kabuki, which dates back to the 17th century, is one of the most iconic Japanese forms of entertainment. This live performance combines songs, dance, and drama, and is so revered that it has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Sapporo

As a city with a laid-back atmosphere, Sapporo is perfect for a night out on the town. The main nightlife area, called Susukino, is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and pubs. This loosely defined area is also home to King Xmhu, a popular nightclub with a spectacular decor and regular themed party nights.

The local LGBT community is well-represented in the area’s gay bars, as well. Bar Sign Oh, located on a ski slope, is a gay bar where you can meet gay and lesbian people. The bar offers free entry and a second-floor dance floor. The dance floor fills up by midnight and stays busy until late. For a more meat-heavy night, try the Beer Inn Mugishutei, which claims to serve some of the best burgers in Japan.

Nagoya

For nightlife, Nagoya offers several options. One of the most popular nightclubs in the city is the ID Cafe. Featuring various dance floors, the club plays all kinds of music. You can even catch live performances. The club has a good sound system and a wide selection of cocktails. It is open every day from 7 p.m. until 1 a.m., and there is usually a cover charge.

Nagoya’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, with everything from dancing to food and drink. The city has plenty of opportunities to keep you busy, from a casual date to a wild night out.