The izakaya—a spot for laid-back socializing

Izakaya culture epitomizes Tokyo’s nightlife. From back-alley haunts lit by traditional red lanterns to sleek and sophisticated gastropubs, these drinking dens that also serve proper food come in many forms. They’re wonderfully versatile, equally apt for a quick drink after work, a weekend visit with friends, or an intimate date.

When at an izakaya, local tipples to try include Hoppy and Chuhai. These drinks date back to the post-World War II years in the late 1940s and early 1950s, when resourceful drinkers sought to mimic the taste of beer, which was expensive at the time, or make cheap shochu, a strong distilled spirit, more palatable. Both drinks remain beloved by Tokyoites today.

Hoppy is a beer-flavored tipple usually mixed with shochu. It’s popular both for its taste and for how you can freely customize its intensity by pouring in more or less shochu. Chuhai, on the other hand, is short for “shochu highball” and is also sometimes called the “downtown highball.” Each izakaya makes its Chuhai a little differently, so be sure to compare flavors when bar-hopping. Don’t drink alcohol? There’s no need to worry—most izakaya offer plenty of soft drinks too.

Note that depending on the establishment, even if you only order drinks, you may receive small side dishes you didn’t specifically request. These otoshi appetizers are part of the table charge. While you generally can’t refuse otoshi, if you absolutely don’t feel like eating, be sure to let the staff know.

Sing the night away at karaoke

In Japan, karaoke is usually sung in private booths (“karaoke boxes”), where you can croon casually with friends or acquaintances without worrying about being seen (or, for the most part, heard). Many karaoke places stay open through the night, making them reliable spots for stress relief and socializing whatever the hour. They’re especially popular stops after year-end parties and other merry gatherings.

But karaoke doesn’t have to be a group activity. In recent years, more and more people come to karaoke boxes alone to sing solo and enjoy some quality “me time.” Some karaoke establishments even offer booths specifically designed for solo use.

The scoring function is a ubiquitous and fun feature at karaoke boxes, allowing for friendly competition. In addition, you can often adjust the lighting in the box yourself, so why not try cranking up the mood with some flashy effects?

As for the song selection, it includes both Japanese tunes and a wide range of global hits. All you need to do is choose your favorite number and sing away in the comfortable confines of the karaoke box.

Relax and recharge at a bathhouse

Sometimes all you need to rejuvenate yourself is a big bathtub to stretch out your legs and soak your worries away in. To do just that, Tokyoites head to communal bathhouses. There are many types of these facilities: some offer natural hot springs, others have open-air baths, and yet others boast traditional murals depicting Mt. Fuji.

Some visitors may be intimidated by the rules of bathing in public. But as long as you keep the following points in mind, you’re likely to have a comfortable time soaking alongside locals.

First, remove all your clothes in the changing room. Then, instead of hopping in a tub right away, thoroughly wash yourself in the showering area. Afterwards, be careful when getting in the baths, since the tubs can be slippery. If you have long hair, it’s proper etiquette to tie it up or wrap it in a towel to keep it out of the water. While some facilities may refuse entry to tattooed visitors, other places are tattoo-friendly—it’s best to check beforehand. For detailed instructions on communal bathing in Tokyo, see the Tokyo Sento Association’s official website.

Many Tokyoites like to enjoy a refreshing soak at a public bathhouse before heading out for drinks. However, be sure to avoid bathing after consuming alcohol.

End the night with ramen

Exploring ramen shops in the wee hours is one of Tokyoites’ favorite nighttime pastimes, and finishing off a long night of drinking with a hot bowl of noodles is a quintessential tradition in the city.

Tokyo’s entertainment districts are packed with late-night ramen shops, some of which stay open around the clock. If you’re feeling peckish or a little tired after leaving your last bar or izakaya, the hot noodle soups they serve are sure to satisfy. There are plenty of styles to choose from: rich tonkotsu (pork bone broth), simple shoyu (soy sauce), light shio (salt), robust miso, and more.

Don’t be surprised to see fellow diners audibly slurping up their noodles. This is the typical way to eat ramen in Japan, as slurping is thought to help you enjoy the noodles and hot soup together. That said, nobody will fault you for not slurping.

Take a moment to reflect on your day over a bowl of ramen, and then retire for the night with both a calm mind and a satisfied stomach.