Yokohama

๐Ÿป

Nightlife and Bars

Sections

1. Popular Bar Districts in Yokohama

Yokohamaโ€™s nightlife is concentrated in a few key areas, each offering a distinct vibe and experience:

a. Noge District

  • Overview: Noge is Yokohamaโ€™s most famous nightlife district, known for its retro charm and lively atmosphere. Itโ€™s packed with small, cozy izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), standing bars, and jazz clubs. The area has a nostalgic post-war vibe, with narrow streets and lantern-lit establishments.
  • What to Expect: Affordable drinks, casual dining, and a chance to mingle with locals. Many bars and izakayas here are small and intimate, seating only a handful of people.
  • Must-Visit Spots:
    • Jazz Bar Chigusa: One of Japanโ€™s oldest jazz bars, perfect for music lovers.
    • Standing Bars (Tachinomiya): Try standing bars like "Noge West End" for a casual drink and conversation.

b. Minato Mirai

  • Overview: This modern waterfront area is home to upscale bars, rooftop lounges, and hotel bars with stunning views of Yokohamaโ€™s skyline and harbor.
  • What to Expect: A more polished and sophisticated nightlife experience, with higher prices but excellent service and ambiance.
  • Must-Visit Spots:
    • The Bar at the InterContinental Yokohama Grand: A luxurious bar with panoramic views of the bay.
    • Sky Lounge Sirius: Located in the Yokohama Royal Park Hotel, this bar offers breathtaking views from the 70th floor.

c. Kannai

  • Overview: Kannai is a mix of old and new, with a variety of bars ranging from traditional izakayas to Western-style pubs. Itโ€™s less touristy than Noge but still lively.
  • What to Expect: A laid-back atmosphere with a mix of locals and expats.
  • Must-Visit Spots:
    • The Tavern: A British-style pub popular with the expat community.
    • Bar Sea Guardian II: A classic cocktail bar located in the historic Hotel New Grand.

d. Chinatown (Yokohama Chukagai)

  • Overview: While primarily known for its food, Chinatown also has a few unique bars and lounges. Itโ€™s a great place to start your evening with a meal before heading to other nightlife areas.
  • What to Expect: A quieter nightlife scene with a focus on dining and specialty drinks.

2. Types of Bars in Yokohama

Yokohamaโ€™s bar scene is diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Here are the main types of bars youโ€™ll find:

a. Izakayas

  • Description: Casual Japanese pubs offering drinks and small plates of food (like yakitori, sashimi, and edamame). These are great for experiencing local culture.
  • Pricing: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ4,000 per person, including food and drinks.
  • Cultural Tip: Many izakayas have a cover charge (called "otoshi"), which includes a small appetizer.

b. Cocktail Bars

  • Description: Yokohama has a strong cocktail culture, with many bars specializing in expertly crafted drinks. Bartenders often take pride in their artistry.
  • Pricing: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ2,000 per cocktail.
  • Cultural Tip: Itโ€™s common to let the bartender recommend a drink based on your preferences.

c. Craft Beer Bars

  • Description: Yokohama is a hub for craft beer in Japan, with several breweries and bars offering local and international brews.
  • Pricing: ยฅ800โ€“ยฅ1,500 per pint.
  • Must-Try: Yokohama Beer, a local craft beer brand.
  • Recommended Spots:
    • Antenna America: A craft beer bar specializing in American brews.
    • Yokohama Bay Brewing: A local brewery with a cozy taproom.

d. Standing Bars (Tachinomiya)

  • Description: These are small, no-frills bars where patrons stand while drinking. Theyโ€™re affordable and great for a quick drink.
  • Pricing: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,000 per drink.
  • Cultural Tip: Standing bars are very casual, and itโ€™s easy to strike up conversations with locals.

e. Themed Bars

  • Description: Yokohama has a few quirky themed bars, such as retro Showa-era bars or jazz bars.
  • Recommended Spot: Bar Noble: A speakeasy-style bar with a vintage vibe.

3. Pricing and Costs

  • Budget-Friendly Options: Standing bars and izakayas in Noge are the most affordable, with drinks starting at ยฅ500.
  • Mid-Range Options: Craft beer bars and casual cocktail bars, where you can expect to spend ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ5,000 for a night out.
  • High-End Options: Rooftop lounges and hotel bars in Minato Mirai, where drinks can cost ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ2,500 each, and total bills may exceed ยฅ8,000.

4. Navigating Yokohamaโ€™s Nightlife Scene

  • Transportation: The last trains in Yokohama typically run around midnight, so plan your evening accordingly. Taxis are available but can be expensive.
  • Language Barrier: While some bars cater to English-speaking patrons, many izakayas and smaller bars may not have English menus. Use translation apps or ask for recommendations.
  • Payment: Many bars accept credit cards, but smaller establishments may be cash-only. Always carry some yen with you.

5. Cultural Considerations

  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is the standard and does not require additional gratuity.
  • Behavior: Japanese nightlife is generally polite and respectful. Avoid being overly loud or disruptive, especially in smaller bars.
  • Smoking: Smoking is still allowed in some bars and izakayas. Look for non-smoking signs if you prefer a smoke-free environment.
  • Dress Code: Most bars in Yokohama are casual, but upscale lounges may have a smart-casual dress code.

6. Tips for Finding Unique or Hidden Spots

  • Explore Nogeโ€™s Alleyways: The narrow streets of Noge are filled with hidden gems. Donโ€™t be afraid to peek into small, unassuming bars.
  • Ask Locals: Bartenders and locals are often happy to recommend their favorite spots.
  • Look for "Snack Bars": These are small, intimate bars where the owner (often a woman) serves drinks and chats with customers. Theyโ€™re a unique part of Japanese nightlife.
  • Check Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Google Maps reviews can help you discover trendy or lesser-known bars.

7. Iconic Places Worth Visiting

  • Bar Noble: A hidden gem for cocktail enthusiasts, known for its speakeasy vibe and expertly crafted drinks.
  • Jazz Bar Windjammer: A nautical-themed jazz bar with live music and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Antenna America: A must-visit for craft beer lovers, offering a wide selection of American and Japanese brews.
  • Sky Lounge Sirius: For a luxurious experience, enjoy cocktails with a view of Yokohamaโ€™s glittering skyline.

8. Final Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Some popular bars, especially in Minato Mirai, may require reservations.
  • Pace Yourself: Japanese nightlife often involves bar-hopping, so donโ€™t overindulge at the first stop.
  • Enjoy the Atmosphere: Yokohamaโ€™s nightlife is less hectic than Tokyoโ€™s, so take your time to soak in the relaxed and friendly vibe.

By exploring Yokohamaโ€™s diverse nightlife, youโ€™ll get a taste of the cityโ€™s unique blend of modernity and tradition. Whether youโ€™re sipping cocktails in a high-rise lounge or enjoying a beer in a cozy izakaya, Yokohama has something for everyone.