Top 3 Bars & Entertainment Spots in Sendai

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Colorful autumn leaves in Sendai, Japan, showcasing vibrant red and orange hues.
Praveen PA, Pexels

Sendai's nightlife thrives in areas like Kokubuncho, providing a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy a variety of drinking experiences, from traditional izakayas to modern craft beer venues and intimate cocktail bars.

Entertainment and Music:

Sendai offers a diverse music and entertainment scene, particularly vibrant in its Kokubuncho district, catering to various preferences from live performances to lively clubs.

For live music, venues like Live Hall Rensa host various artists, while Jazz-Villeban Sendai provides a relaxed atmosphere with live jazz, often with no cover charge. For those seeking a more dynamic experience, prominent nightclubs in the area, such as 101 Nightclub and Art Nightclub, feature Japanese hip-hop and EDM.

1. Genji

Type: Izakaya (Japanese-style pub)

Nestled in the historic Bunka Yokocho alleyway, Genji offers a classic and calm setting. The ambiance, with its subdued lighting and impressive wooden counter, feels like stepping back in time. Guests experience a unique 'four-cup' rule, where each round of high-quality sake is thoughtfully paired with a small dish, fostering moderation and a relaxed pace. The menu features exquisite home-cooked dishes, including pickled vegetables, tofu, sashimi, and oden, creating a genuine taste of local cuisine. This is a cash-only establishment, and communication is primarily in Japanese.

Getting There: Genji is located in the Ichibancho area, a 2-minute walk from Aoba-dori Ichibancho Station on the Sendai Subway Tozai Line. If arriving from Sendai Station, take the Tozai Line (two stops) to Aoba-dori Ichibancho Station (approximately 210 JPY).

2. CRAFTSMAN Sendai

Type: Craft Beer Bar & Italian Restaurant

CRAFTSMAN Sendai blends a vintage-industrial aesthetic with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. It presents a remarkable selection of over 30 craft beers on tap, sourced from both Japanese and international breweries. Beyond the extensive beer list, the venue serves delectable Italian cuisine, including pizzas, pastas, and tapas, prepared with local ingredients. The energetic environment makes it suitable for casual gatherings, and English menus are available, with some staff capable of assisting in English.

Getting There: CRAFTSMAN Sendai is conveniently located in the city center, approximately a 5-minute walk from Sendai Station. Alternatively, it is about a 1-minute walk from Aobadori Station Exit 1.

3. Bar Andante

Type: Cocktail Bar

For those seeking a more refined and intimate experience, Bar Andante provides a tranquil escape. This small, nine-seat counter bar focuses entirely on the art of mixology, with no background music to distract from conversation or the skillful preparations. The owner, an expert bartender, crafts exquisite classic cocktails, alongside unique house creations like the 'Snow Country' cocktail, often accompanied by impressive shaker performances. It is an ideal spot for a quiet drink and thoughtful conversation.

Getting There: Bar Andante is located on the 3rd floor of the Ument Building in Chuo. It is a very short walk (approximately 116 meters) from Hirose-dori Station on the Sendai Subway Namboku Line. Hirose-dori Station is one stop from Sendai Station (approximately 210 JPY).

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