Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Alix Lee, Pexels
Yokohama provides a rich and varied drinking experience, ranging from casual, historic bar-hopping alleys to upscale, modern venues, reflecting its unique blend of tradition and contemporary urban life.
Entertainment and Music:
Yokohama offers a diverse entertainment landscape, characterized by a vibrant jazz scene rooted in its history, alongside modern venues that host larger musical acts.
The city is notably a significant hub for jazz, being recognized as the birthplace of jazz in Japan, and features numerous establishments dedicated to the genre. One can experience sophisticated live performances at venues like Motion Blue Yokohama, which offers a dining experience with top-tier musicians, or immerse themselves in the acclaimed acoustics of Jazz Spot Dolphy, known for its long history and regular jam sessions. Beyond the jazz clubs, larger music-focused arenas such as K-Arena Yokohama and KT Zepp Yokohama are available for those seeking bigger concerts and events.
1. Noge Goen
Type: Standing Izakaya
Noge Goen offers a lively atmosphere in Yokohama's historic Noge district. It specializes in fresh seafood, including sashimi sourced from nearby ports, paired with a curated selection of sake. This standing bar provides an authentic and approachable experience, characteristic of the local bar-hopping scene.
Getting There: Located a short walk from Sakuragicho Station, Noge Goen is easily accessible by train, and then on foot.
2. Bar Sea Guardian II
Type: Classic Hotel Bar
Stepping into Bar Sea Guardian II feels like entering a bygone era, reminiscent of a classic European hotel bar. Established in 1927, it is one of Yokohama's oldest bars, offering a sophisticated and relaxing ambiance. The skilled bartenders craft classic cocktails with precision, including the signature Yokohama cocktail.
Getting There: Situated conveniently near Yokohama Station, Bar Sea Guardian II is reachable by a short walk from the station.
3. Yokohama Brewery (Umaya-no-Shokutaku)
Type: Brewery Restaurant / Craft Beer Bar
As part of Yokohama Brewery, 'Umaya-no-Shokutaku' offers a chance to experience local craft beers, as Yokohama is known as the birthplace of Japan's modern brewing industry. The venue provides a range of freshly brewed beers, often paired with a food menu, appealing to those who appreciate quality local brews.
Getting There: Found within the Minato Mirai 21 / Sakuragicho area, Yokohama Brewery is typically a comfortable walk from Sakuragicho or Minato Mirai Stations.
4. Bar 'Jack's'
Type: Hotel Bar / Cocktail Lounge
Located within The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu, Bar 'Jack's' exudes a traditional British charm, creating a refined and relaxing space. It is known for its vintage liquors and original cocktails crafted by expert bartenders. On Friday and Saturday evenings, guests can enjoy special live music performances, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere.
Getting There: Directly connected to Minato Mirai Station, Bar 'Jack's' is easily accessible via the Minato Mirai Line. For those coming from other districts, a taxi ride from Yokohama Station would cost approximately 1,500 - 2,000 JPY, with a 20% surcharge applying between 10 PM and 5 AM.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.