Tokyo is a city where nightlife pulses through every alley and neon-lit street corner. Unlike many major cities, Tokyo offers a truly authentic experience for those eager to explore its local drinking culture. Whether it’s navigating tiny izakayas in Shinjuku, hunting for secret bars in Shibuya, or learning how to make sushi with sake in hand, these curated tours give you a genuine taste of Tokyo after dark. If you’re into uncovering hidden spots or diving deep into Japanese drinks, you’ll find plenty to love here. Among the highlights are tours like the Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour, which takes you inside underground bars with a friendly local guide, and the Sake Tasting Omakase Course, perfect for sake enthusiasts.
Quick Overview
This list features a diverse mix of guided walking tours in popular districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya, which focus on local bars, izakayas, and hidden gems. You’ll find options ranging from small-group bar crawls to culinary courses with sake tasting. Many tours include food and drinks, making them excellent value, especially considering the authentic experiences and insider access. Whether you prefer casual pub crawls, cultural food tours, or specialized sake classes, there’s something here to match your style.
1. Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour
At number 1, this tour offers an unforgettable night out in Shinjuku, guided by a Tokyo local. You’ll visit 3 hidden hotspots known only to residents—the perfect way to escape tourist traps. The focus is on underground izakayas and secret bars, giving you a genuine look into Tokyo’s nightlife scene. With a stellar 5-star rating from over 1,196 reviews at just $40 per person, it’s a solid choice for those seeking an authentic local experience.
Your guide will help you navigate back alleys and hidden bars where the Japanese drinking culture thrives far from the crowds. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Shinjuku beyond the bright lights, in a relaxed, insider setting. Bottom line: For a budget-friendly, immersive introduction to Tokyo’s nightlife, this guided walk is tough to beat.
2. Shibuya Night Bar Hopping Walking Tour in Tokyo
Second on our list is the Shibuya Night Bar Hopping Tour, an expertly curated 3.5-hour experience designed to help you explore Shibuya’s lively bar scene without the language barrier. Perfect for newcomers, the tour takes you to hidden bars in indoor yokocho alleys that are unlikely to be found alone. Price-wise, it’s a bit higher at around $129.50, but that includes handpicked drinks and local dishes—a full meal—plus the insider knowledge of your guide.
You’ll start at the iconic Shibuya Crossing, then head into local hideaways like a specially selected izakaya and a secret bar in a building on the main street. Reviews praise guides like Cyackey and Naoki for their insight and friendliness, making the night both fun and informative. Bottom line: For a comprehensive, hassle-free way to sample Shibuya’s best-kept drinking secrets, this tour is a fantastic choice.
3. 3-Hours Tokyo Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl in Shinjuku Area
Next up is an intimate small-group bar crawl in Shinjuku, priced at about $43. It’s especially appealing for first-timers eager to avoid the crowds and still enjoy the authentic atmosphere. The tour hits Omoide Yokocho—a narrow, lantern-lit alley lined with local izakayas—before heading to Golden Gai, famed for its tiny, themed bars. The highlight is access to a hidden izakaya that usually isn’t open to the public, providing a rare glimpse into Tokyo’s drinking world.
Rated highly at 5 stars from over 570 reviews, guests appreciate the personalized experience and the chance to learn about Tokyo culture. The tour leaves room for guests to buy their own food and drinks, giving flexibility. Bottom line: If you want a small-group experience with local insights and hidden spots, this crawl offers great value.
4. 【NEW】Sushi & Ramen Cooking & Sake Set in Tokyo! (+Recipe)
For those interested in culinary culture, this 3-hour experience is a standout. You’ll visit a local supermarket with a chef, learning how to pick authentic Japanese ingredients, then make sushi, ramen, and more under expert guidance. The class includes sake tasting paired with your dishes, making it both educational and delicious. Priced at $143, it’s more of an immersive experience for food lovers.
Guests praise the personalized attention and high-quality ingredients, with ratings hitting 5 stars. It’s suitable for all skill levels, and participants go home with recipes and new skills. Bottom line: For a hands-on cultural experience combining cooking and sake, this class offers exceptional value for a memorable afternoon.
5. Shibuya: Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl
At number 5, this Shibuya tour is designed to reveal 3 hidden bars and izakayas, all chosen by a local guide. Priced affordably at $28, it’s perfect for budget travelers or those looking for a relaxed social night. The tour emphasizes interaction with locals and authentic spots that usually fly under the tourist radar.
Guests enjoy sampling drinks and food at each stop, with the flexibility to tailor the experience. The guide’s insights help you understand the local bar culture and make meaningful connections. Bottom line: If you want an affordable, sociable tour that takes you to authentic venues, this is a flexible and fun option.
6. Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar Hopping and Food Tour
Number 6 brings you on a 3-hour exploration of Shinjuku’s backstreets, focusing on hidden bars and street foods. For $24, this is one of the most cost-effective tours on the list, ideal if you want a value-packed night. The itinerary covers Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai, with the guide sharing local insights along the way.
The tour is perfect for solo travelers or small groups who want to discover the real Tokyo without spending a fortune. Reviews highlight the personalized experience and authentic atmosphere. Bottom line: For a budget-friendly and insider look at Shinjuku’s nightlife, this tour is hard to beat.
7. Tokyo: Shinjuku Bar Hopping with All-You-Can-Drink & Dinner
Especially suited for food and drink lovers, this tour includes 3 local izakaya stops with all-you-can-drink and a full dinner. Priced at $112, it’s an all-inclusive experience perfect for those who want to maximize their night without worrying about extra costs. The tour combines authentic Tokyo bars with street food and is suitable for travelers wanting a lively, social atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy sake, cocktails, and local street foods, making it a broad tasting experience. The reviews note the great value and friendly hosts. Bottom line: If you prefer dinner and drinks included and want a fun, lively night, this tour fits well.
8. Tokyo: Pub Crawl and Bar Tour
Number 8 offers a classic pub crawl experience with discounts and free shots at each bar. At $27, it’s a budget-friendly option for those wanting to visit multiple venues in one night. The tour takes you through three bars and clubs, ending with dancing at a top Tokyo club.
Participants appreciate the vibrant crowd and the friendly, energetic guides. It’s an excellent choice for social travelers looking to meet international friends. Bottom line: For a fun, party-oriented night with the chance to dance and socialize, this pub crawl is a top contender.
9. 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya
Rated 5 stars, this Shibuya pub crawl is tailored for first-time visitors. For $56, it includes shots at each bar and takes you to 2–4 lively venues, including a DJ bar with techno and house music. The guide ensures you discover bars you might otherwise miss and offers local insights.
Guests love how easy it is to meet others in this social setup. It’s ideal for solo travelers or newcomers eager to start their Tokyo night with a guided experience. Bottom line: If you’re new to Tokyo’s nightlife and want a welcoming, lively introduction, this tour is a great pick.
10. Tokyo Sushi Class with Sake Tasting & Local Supermarket Tour
This 4-hour hands-on class combines sushi making, sake tasting, and market shopping for around $114. It offers an immersive culinary experience that lets you learn traditional Japanese techniques directly from a local chef. Guests rave about fun, informative instruction and delicious results, with a perfect 5-star rating.
The experience is great for foodies, cooking enthusiasts, or those wanting to understand Japanese cuisine better. The tour emphasizes interactive participation and provides recipes to take home. Bottom line: For a cultural and culinary adventure, this sushi and sake class offers lasting memories.
11. Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar Hopping Tour 3 Authentic Izakayas
This 3-hour tour showcases three carefully selected local izakayas and hidden bars in Shinjuku. Rated 5 stars, it offers authentic drinks and food in a relaxed atmosphere. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, it’s appreciated for insider access to less touristy spots.
Guests enjoy the food variety and insightful stories about Tokyo’s nightlife. It’s well-suited for small groups or solo travelers wanting a personalized experience. Bottom line: If you want to explore local favorites with a friendly guide, this tour is a top option.
12. Sake Tasting Omakase Course by Certified Sommeliers in Tokyo
This luxury sake experience offers a tasting of 7 curated sakes with unlimited refills and gourmet snacks. Priced at roughly $86, it’s hosted by certified sommeliers who share their expertise in a stylish setting. Guests rave about the variety of sake and the knowledgeable hosts.
Ideal for sake aficionados or those curious about Japan’s national drink, it’s a relaxed, educational experience. The small group size ensures personalized attention. Bottom line: For deep sake knowledge and a refined atmosphere, this is a superb choice.
13. Tokyo: The Best of Izakaya in Shinjuku Food & Cultural Tour
This 3-hour tour combines food, culture, and local drinks in Shinjuku. Price at $129 includes 14+ dishes, visits to neon-lit streets, and exclusive sake tastings. The guide shares stories about Shinjuku’s transformation and points out hidden spots.
Guests highlight the variety of food and the interactive cultural insights. It’s best suited for culinary explorers who want more than just drinks. Bottom line: For a comprehensive and delicious immersion into Shinjuku’s izakaya scene, this tour delivers.
14. Sake Tasting Class with a Sake Professional
This 2-hour sake class, priced at $77, features at least six sakes and expert guidance from a professional sake sommelier. It’s a small-group setting, ideal for those wanting to understand sake flavors, pairing tips, and buying advice.
Rated highly, guests appreciate the personalized instruction and variety of sake. It’s suitable for both beginners and enthusiasts. Bottom line: For learning about sake in a friendly, informative environment, this class is a winner.
15. 3-Hour Shibuya Local Bar and Izakaya Crawl Tour
Rounding out our list is an evening crawl in Shibuya, visiting 3 local bars and izakayas for about $43. It emphasizes authentic Tokyo nightlife and meeting fellow travelers. The tour includes admission fees, with drinks and food extra.
Guests love the well-chosen venues and friendly guide. It’s perfect for solo travelers or anyone wanting to orient themselves in Shibuya’s vibrant scene. Bottom line: For a fun, sociable night with local flavor, this tour is an excellent low-cost choice.
How to Choose Your Drinking Tour in Tokyo
When selecting your ideal drinking tour, consider your budget, interests, and time available. If you’re curious about sake and want a luxury experience, the Sake Tasting Omakase Course or the professional sake classes are excellent options. For budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic local bars, the Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour and the Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour offer great value.
If your goal is to maximize social interaction and explore multiple districts, the pub crawls and small-group bar tours deliver lively, friendly atmospheres. For food lovers, the Sushi & Ramen Cooking class combines culinary skills with local drinks, creating a memorable experience. Lastly, think about the time of day—most tours run in the evening—and book early to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo offers a wide array of drinking tours suited for all tastes and budgets. Whether you want the hidden bars of Shinjuku, the buzz of Shibuya, or a culinary journey with sake, this city delivers. For those seeking an authentic, local experience, the Tokyo: Shinjuku Local Bar and Izakaya Guided Walking Tour remains a top pick for its affordable price and insider access.
Meanwhile, sake lovers should consider the Sake Tasting Omakase Course or the Sake Tasting Class with a Sake Professional, which combine education with tasting. For those who prefer more casual nights, tours like the Shibuya Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl offer a lively way to meet new friends and enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures.