Yokohama is an excellent city for exploring Japan’s lively drinking culture without the crowds of Tokyo. Its historic districts, authentic izakayas, and quirky bars make it a perfect place to sample local flavors and meet friendly locals. Among the options, the Private Bar Hopping 101 Tour in Noge stands out for its personalized approach, led by a guide who knows the best spots and shares insights into Yokohama’s past. If you prefer a shorter, more relaxed experience, the Yokohama: Bar Hopping Guided Tour from Yokohama Station offers a quick dive into the maritime history of the area, perfect for a quick evening out. For those eager to explore the legendary Noge district deeply, the Deep Dive into Noge’s Izakaya Bar Hopping offers a more immersive experience that’s still manageable in just a few hours.
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the seven best drinking tours in Yokohama. Each one offers a different flavor of local nightlife, from traditional izakayas to retro bars and historic districts—so you can choose the one that fits your style and schedule.
1. Private Bar Hopping 101 Tour in Noge, Yokohama
At number 1, the Private Bar Hopping 101 Tour in Noge is a personal, intimate experience led by Hitomy, a former airline crew with a knack for uncovering Yokohama’s coolest spots. This 3-hour tour is limited to just three guests, making it ideal for travelers who want a tailored, relaxed evening. Starting at the South Gate of JR Sakuragicho Station, Hitomy takes you to three carefully selected venues, including traditional izakayas and a quick walk through Showa-era architecture.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized storytelling—Hitomy shares her favorite local places and insights into Japanese nightlife, making it more than just bar hopping. You’ll enjoy three drinks in total, with opportunities to visit a bar inside an old-style building or explore the area’s history. This experience is perfect for those who want a blend of authentic drinking culture and local charm, all with an expert guide. The reviews celebrate Hitomy’s friendly attitude and her knowledge of local secrets, making the tour feel like a night out with a knowledgeable friend.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a personalized, insider look at Yokohama’s izakaya scene, this tour offers great value for its intimate setting and expert guidance.
2. Retro Yokohama Bar Hopping 101 Tour in Noge
Number 2 on our list is the Retro Yokohama Bar Hopping 101 Tour in Noge, a well-reviewed tour that promises an authentic and nostalgic look at Yokohama’s drinking scene. Just 25 minutes from Shinagawa, this guided experience takes you through two traditional izakayas and ends at a unique retro bar, where you can soak in a local atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
The focus here is on tasting classic Japanese bar foods while mingling with locals. The guide ensures you visit signature spots that keep the character of Noge alive, making this a great choice for travelers craving a genuine, no-frills experience. The tour is well-suited for those interested in exploring Yokohama’s traditional pubs without a large group, offering a relaxed yet informative atmosphere. The $135 price includes visits to these signature venues, making it a good value for those wanting a taste of Yokohama’s bar culture.
Bottom Line: For a deeper dive into Yokohama’s nostalgic bar scene with fewer travelers, this tour hits the mark with its focus on traditional flavors and local spots.
3. Deep Dive into Noge’s Izakaya Bar Hopping Tour in Yokohama
Number 3 is the Deep Dive into Noge’s Izakaya Bar Hopping, which is unique for its personalized approach and tailored venue selection. It’s a 3-hour tour that takes you through 3 to 4 local izakayas chosen by a guide with years of expertise. Starting at JR Sakuragicho Station’s Tourist Information Center, the guide’s familiarity with Noge’s hidden spots ensures you experience the neighborhood’s true character.
This tour is especially good for travelers who want flexibility—your guide handles Japanese menu language barriers and customizes the experience based on your preferences. Guests rave about the guide’s ability to select spots that locals love, and the tour’s intimate size allows for quality interaction. The visit includes local appetizers and drinks, and the atmosphere ranges from lively to cozy, depending on your mood. Since the tour is about 3 hours, it’s a perfect option for those with a limited schedule but who want to maximize their local experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a personalized, authentic izakaya experience with insider knowledge, this tour is a smart choice.
$120.33 per person
4. Yokohama: Bar Hopping Guided Tour from Yokohama Station
Number 4 is the Yokohama: Bar Hopping Guided Tour from Yokohama Station, a shorter 1.5-hour experience focusing on the historic district near the West Exit of Yokohama Station. This tour offers an excellent introduction to the city’s maritime past, especially in the Tanuki Alley neighborhood, once popular among sailors from around the world.
The tour emphasizes storytelling and local connections, with your guide introducing you to bar owners and sharing tales about Yokohama’s port history. While the cost is around $110, the value lies in the historical context combined with a taste of local bars. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to understand Yokohama’s international drinking scene. Since it’s a guided walk, it’s suitable for those who enjoy learning about the places they visit rather than just casual bar-hopping.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs and those with limited time who want a quick yet meaningful dive into Yokohama’s maritime bar scene.
$110.09 per person
5. Bar Hopping in Noge: Yokohama’s Historic Drinking District
Number 5 is the Bar Hopping in Noge, a 1.5-hour tour that explores Noge’s traditional downtown vibe. The area, once thriving after WWII due to its closeness to American forces, has seen ups and downs but now thrives as a lively nightlife spot. The guide leads you through three bars, sharing stories about the neighborhood’s past influences, including the postwar period.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a quick immersion into local drinking culture with a guide who facilitates connections with bar owners. The experience emphasizes the nostalgic atmosphere, giving you a feel for what Yokohama’s nightlife was like decades ago. Ranging around $107, it offers good value, especially if you want a taste of history alongside your drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a compact, history-rich tour of Noge’s bars with easy, guided interaction.
$107 per person
6. Yokohama: Noge Bar Hopping and Local Nightlife Experience
Number 6 brings us a Noge Bar Hopping and Nightlife Experience, a 2-hour walk through Noge’s nostalgic streets. This tour emphasizes its postwar history, especially its reputation as a hub for American servicemen and local vendors. The guide leads you through several traditional and modern bars, helping you connect with local owners and enjoy the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere.
The focus on local stories and the area’s evolving nightlife make this tour great for travelers who want to soak in the authentic character of Noge. The price is about $128, and the tour’s duration allows for a relaxed visit with plenty of opportunity for conversations and photo stops. It’s a fitting choice for anyone interested in Yokohama’s cultural layers and nightlife evolution.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a friendly, story-rich exploration of Yokohama’s historic bar scene.
$128.14 per person
7. Nightlife Tour in Yokohama and Kannai with Bar Hopping and Drinks
Finally, number 7 offers a Nightlife Tour in Yokohama and Kannai, a 2.5 to 3-hour excursion that takes you through two different types of nightlife venues. Starting at a traditional izakaya loved by locals and moving into a “club lounge” with hostesses, this tour provides a diverse experience. You’ll sample drinks, chat with bartenders, and maybe even sing a karaoke tune or two in a place that’s distinctly Japanese.
This tour is best suited for those curious about different Japanese nightlife styles, especially if you want to experience both casual and more glamorous environments. The price is around $127, and the longer duration means you’ll get a comprehensive taste of Yokohama’s night scene. The diversity of venues allows for a varied experience, mixing socializing with lively entertainment.
Bottom Line: For an all-around nightlife experience that combines traditional and modern venues, this tour offers good variety.
$127
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Yokohama
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a personalized experience with insider knowledge, the Private Bar Hopping 101 Tour in Noge is hard to beat. For a quick introduction, the Yokohama: Bar Hopping Guided Tour from Yokohama Station hits the sweet spot. Meanwhile, those who want a deeper dive into the neighborhood’s history and hidden spots should consider the Deep Dive into Noge’s Izakaya.
Think about the length of the tour and the type of environment you prefer—traditional izakayas, retro bars, or a mix of both. If your schedule is tight, the shorter guided tours are ideal, while the more comprehensive experiences suit those who want to spend a relaxed evening exploring Yokohama’s nightlife.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to guarantee spots on your preferred tour.
Yokohama’s drinking scene offers a rich mix of history, local flavor, and friendly atmospheres. Whether you want a personalized walk through Noge’s best izakayas or a quick history tour near Yokohama Station, these tours help you experience the city’s vibrant nightlife authentically. For those eager to learn and sip like a local, there’s a perfect match waiting.