This holiday season, I decided to explore Nonbee Yokacho in Shibuya, a bar district that’s lesser-known compared to the famous Golden Gai in Shinjuku. Despite its low profile, it’s conveniently located just around the corner from Shibuya Station, only a five-minute walk from the world-famous Scramble Crossing. This hidden gem offers a unique charm and atmosphere, distinct from the more popular bar districts in Tokyo.
Nonbei Yokacho is a relatively small district with a few dozen bars, each offering a unique experience. The variety here is impressive, ranging from standing bars and casual eateries to more traditional snack bars. While the district may be smaller in scale, it has everything you need for a vibrant nightlife experience. However, it’s worth noting that most of these bars open later in the night, so if you visit during the day, you’ll find many of them closed.
During my visit, I arrived early and found only a few bars open. One small standing bar with a cozy dining area upstairs caught my attention. I decided to give it a try and was pleasantly surprised. The bar offered a simple yet satisfying menu, featuring curry with basmati rice and small side dishes. The food seemed to be pre-cooked and reheated in the downstairs kitchen, but it was delicious and filling after a gym session. While my experience was brief and the bar was mostly occupied by regulars, I felt welcomed and enjoyed the local hospitality. Despite the curious gazes of other tourists, I found that being a foreigner in Japan is nothing to be afraid of; in fact, it can even be an advantage, offering a fresh perspective on the local nightlife.
