Best Rooftop Bars, Beer Gardens & Outdoor Dining for Summer in Tokyo

Enjoy cool breezes in summer at these outdoor spots

In summer, people flock to Tokyo's many outdoor spots, including beer gardens, rooftop bars and terraces. The summer nights can be enjoyed in a variety of styles, from the casual atmosphere of a beer garden to the sophisticated surroundings of a rooftop bar. 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.

Stylish nights looking out at Tokyo's skyline

Tokyo presents many ways to enjoy the open air, such as outdoor dining and rooftop bars. Spend some quality time enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Bar, which offers sweeping views of the city and cocktails made with seasonal fruits and teas. SHIBUYA SKY's rooftop observation space will host "THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY" until December 25 (Friday). Visitors can enjoy music, drinks, and snacks while gazing out at the Tokyo skyline.

Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Bar

©Shibuya Scramble Square

Enjoy nature in Tokyo with a cold beer in hand

Mt. Takao is a popular hiking destination which is also home to the "Beer Mount" beer garden, 500 m above sea level. It's 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. It's typically open from spring to early winter.

For a historical experience, visit the beautiful Meiji Kinenkan, located at Meiji Shrine. In summer, the Sekirei Beer Terrace opens on its vast lawn, serving a fusion of Japanese and Western cuisine.

Mt. Takao Beer Mount

Sekirei Beer Terrace