Beer Garden Guide

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 April at the earliest through the end of September.

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. And at Roppongi's Tokyo Midtown, you can enjoy stylish cocktails and gourmet cuisine while relaxing in a large open space surrounded by art museums.

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. There are a variety of beer gardens to try within the city. Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Bar offers sweeping views of the city and cocktails made with seasonal fruits and teas. During certain times of the year, Shibuya Sky outdoor observation deck is home to "The Roof Shibuya Sky," where visitors can enjoy music, drinks, and snacks while gazing out at the Tokyo skyline.

Sekirei Beer Terrace

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.

Mt. Takao Beer Mount