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Updated: July 5, 2023

Head to the roof for Tokyo's best summer beer gardens

Office workers and tourists alike, flock to Tokyo's many rooftops and outdoor restaurants to enjoy summer nights in the fresh air. The season generally runs from Mid-May through the end of September.


Tips

  • Many beer gardens offer all you can eat and drink packages, generally limited to around two hours
  • Check the major department stores in Shinjuku, Ginza, Shibuya and Ikebukuro for rooftop bars
  • Even the biggest venues, such as beer gardens based in parks, get busy on Friday nights and weekends, so reserve in advance
  • Reward yourself for hiking up Mt. Takao with a cold brew at the beer garden around 500 meters above sea level, but be careful: the last cable car down, leaves at 9:15 p.m.

Shopping and brews with a view

Department store rooftops are usually quiet spaces with kids' play areas, but on summer nights they come alive with fairy lights and lanterns, the scent of BBQ and carousing office workers. Each has a different atmosphere, from the raucous but fun atmosphere of Ikebukuro's Tobu Department store to the Korean stylings of Parco Ikebukuro. Tokyo's trendy young locals head to Lumine Est in Shinjuku, which turns its rooftop into a beach resort, complete with glamping options.

 

Chill in the garden

There's a lot of green in this modern city, so make the most of the natural surrounds on a summer afternoon. Hibiya Park has its "Hibeer Garden," with craft beers and live music, along with various food stalls. Head to Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi to relax in the spacious park, surrounded by world-class art museums, and enjoy a cocktail or two, with gourmet food.
Hibeer Garden: This event will not take place in 2023.

 

Style under the stars

There are outdoor drinking options from cheap and rowdy, through to truly elegant. For a stylish take on the traditional beer garden, head to Meiji Kinenkan, a beautiful restaurant within Meiji Jingu Shrine. The Beer Terrace Sekirei opens on the grand lawns during summer, offering a mix of Japanese and western dishes. Many hotels offer their own take on the concept, such as Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Bar, which offers sweeping views of the city and cocktails made with seasonal fruits and teas.
Drinks Up High at Tokyo's Rooftop Beer Gardens

 

Mt. Takao's Beer Garden at 500 Meters

Mt. Takao is a popular hiking destination which is also home to the "Beer Mount" beer garden, 500 m above sea level. It's typically open for business from late June to mid-October, and is a great place to enjoy buffet-style food and drink while gazing out at Tokyo's cityscape and the night sky. In addition to the major Japanese beers, several local craft beers are also available.

Drinking & Dining

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