Craft Beer Guide: Tokyo Edition

Craft BeerTravelTokyo
Written By Cheyenne Haney

Exploring new cities is exciting, and for me, the exploration often includes tracking down the best craft beer spots. Over the past 14 years, I have watched Japan’s craft beer scene transform from a few breweries and bars to a large community of beer lovers. A good craft beer bar was a rare find outside of Tokyo and Osaka when I first moved here. Now, craft beer shops, restaurants, and breweries are popping up all over Japan, even if some imported brews remain difficult to find—here’s looking at you Russian River.

Tokyo, with its energy and size, is definitely an exciting city for craft beer lovers. Here is my personal guide to some of the city’s craft beer bars and shops. I attempted to list them based on location rather than my personal opinion or rating. While this is far from an exhaustive list, it highlights some spots to sip, savor, and explore.

Craft Beer Locations in Tokyo:

 

The Watering Hole

Location: Shinjuku

One of Tokyo’s first craft beer bars, The Watering Hole remains a must-visit for enthusiasts and has become an iconic part of Tokyo's craft beer scene. The shop is managed by Yuya, who is well-known for his activity in the beer community especially through his group the Yuya Boys. While the beer selection has changed over time, it continues to offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can sometimes spot unique brews and meet fellow beer geeks and expats. (There is even a sticker from Good People Brewing which is located back in Alabama.)

Pherment Brewing

Location: Shinjuku

One of the newest shops in Tokyo’s craft beer scene, Pherment Brewing, is currently operating as a phantom brewery with plans to open a full-fledged location. The beers are quite incredible. Their IPAs are pleasantly bitter, and the hazy beers offer a sweeter finish. Furthermore, their taproom food menu features juicy burgers, fries, bacon jam, and several other options. Check their Instagram for the latest on opening hours and beer releases.

WPU

Location: Nishishinjuku

WPU is a craft beer bar, café, and restaurant located in a hotel. They offer a variety of craft beers from all over Japan. The atmosphere and design is modern yet retro with a laid-back ambiance that suits various occasions. Whether you’re meeting friends for lunch, enjoying a quiet solo afternoon with a book, or having a casual date, WPU is a great choice. Although I didn’t eat, the foods looked and smelled fantastic. Their beer selection is broad enough to cater to almost any preference, and as a bonus for any travelers, the staff speaks English. My favorite design highlight from the bar were their unique coasters. If you’re in Shinjuku and on the hunt for craft beer, WPU is a spot you shouldn’t miss.

Cycad Brewing

Location: Nishiikebukuro

Cycad Brewing was a discovery during my most recent Tokyo trip. While it’s away from the main tourist hubs, this hidden gem should definitely make your list. The beers were fantastic—fresh and packed with flavor. Even better, the staff created a welcoming and upbeat atmosphere. Then, there’s the food. The American-style BBQ is the standout. I regretted that I had dinner reservations elsewhere because I wanted to try more than BBQ loaded fries. On the day of my visit, there was an event featuring pop-up food vendors and a local artist, Macrocarpa, selling prints. While it might take some effort to reach, the experience is absolutely worth it.

PDX Taproom

Location: Near Cat Street

PDX Taproom focuses on beers from the Pacific Northwest to bring a taste of Portland to Tokyo. Located off Cat Street near the Trunk Hotel, it is a great spot to recharge after shopping. The menu includes a selection of pub classics like sandwiches and appetizers. I highly recommend trying the tuna melt—it is consistently delicious and pairs perfectly with most of their beers.

Tap and Growler

Location: Shimokitazawa and Harajuku

Tap and Growler provides a cozy space for craft beer enthusiasts, though its Shimokitazawa location can be a bit dim and with limited seating. It offers a respectable range of draft beers and the option to fill growlers to go. While the seating might not be the most comfortable, the casual vibe makes it a great place for a quick pint while browsing Shimokitazawa’s vintage shops.

Meat Brothers

Location: Shimokitazawa

Located in a unique container-style building, Meat Brothers in Shimokitazawa is a trendy spot for craft beer and tacos. With a standing bar on one side and a few seats on the other, it is perfect for a casual afternoon drink. The shop has a few draft beers and a good selection of cans and bottles. While I did not eat anything except a mixed nuts, the tacos seemed to be the most popular menu option. I forgot to take any pictures both times I visited this location.

Craft Beer Xixi

Location: Yoyogi

Craft Beer Xixi introduces the flavors of Taiwan to Tokyo by offering a mix of Taiwanese and Japanese craft beers. The bar’s food menu offers dishes like dumplings, coriander salad, and noodles. Ordering via QR code adds to the modern atmosphere of the bar and might help some tourists from feeling overwhelmed due to a lack of Japanese skills. No matter what you choose in this shop, you most likely will not be disappointed.

Goodbeer Faucets

Location: Shibuya

From its exterior, it looks quite small. Yet, once you step inside, it’s bright and open. The draft beer menu and a decent selection of cans and bottles add to the atmosphere that is perfect for beer nerds. Although the food menu does not particularly impress me, the variety of beer options and space make it a place worth visiting. I have been here on multiple occasions but not in my recent visits to Tokyo, so I don’t have any current photos from their shop.

Pizzakaya

Location: Roppongi

After entering Pizzakaya, you feel as though you have been transported to the United States. The shop offers delicious pizzas and a good selection of craft beers. The ambiance, beers, pizzas, and carrot cake create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you are a pizza lover or just in search of good beer, Pizzakaya delivers on both fronts. 

Titans

Location: Otsuka Station Area

Titans is a popular craft beer bar located a short train ride from Shinjuku or Ikebukuro Stations. It is a hit among locals and visitors alike due to its 12 taps and selection of cans and bottles. This bar is the product of a collaboration between AQ and Beer Cats. While the AQ gyoza seems to be the most popular menu offering, I preferred some of the other dishs. The beer list changes frequently, ensuring there is always something new to try.

Citraba

Location: Nakano

Located near the eclectic shops of Nakano, Citraba is a hidden gem. This cozy bar offers an impressive variety of craft beers paired with a food menu that includes dishes from izakaya staples to Chinese cuisine. My personal favorites were the dumplings and fried rice. Citraba’s beer selection often features both American and Japanese brews, making it a perfect stop during a day of shopping for watches and sightseeing.

Craft Beer Serverland

Location: Akasaka and Ochanomizu

Walking into Craft Beer Serverland feels like entering a magical world from your favorite fantasy novels or games. The Akasaka location is all but hidden away inside the basement of a building not far from Akasaka Station Inside. The décor, reminiscent of Elder Scrolls or World of Warcraft, prepares visitors for a magical beer adventure. The menu features a decent selection of beers, several vegetarian-friendly curry lunch sets, and a few snacks. Plus, the friendly staff makes the experience even better.

iBrew

Location: Multiple Locations, Favorite: Ginza

Out of all the iBrew locations, the Ginza location is my favorite thanks to its consistently excellent beers and delectable menu when it first opened. Though the expansion of the shop has led to some variation in offerings, it remains a solid choice for craft beer. With multiple locations around Tokyo, each visit can be a different experience. The variety of brews still makes it a worthwhile stop even though the food options have changed drastically.

Folk Burgers & Craft Beer

Location: Jinbocho

Folk Burgers and Beer is a popular restaurant that pairs delicious burgers with a well-chosen selection of craft beers. Since the space is quite small, it is best visited solo or with a small group. The burgers, fries, and fried chicken are all outstanding, and their draft beer offerings make it a perfect lunch spot for beer lovers. 

Craft Beer Crazy

Location: Kanda

Craft Beer Crazy offers a space ideal for enjoying the sun while indoors away from the heat on summer days. One unique point is that you get to choose your otoshi (a small dish included with the seating charge) from a menu of options, making it a fun, personalized experience. The draft selection is decent, and they also offer highballs and other drinks for those less inclined towards beer. If you are looking for a place to grab a snack and rest or meet up with a group, this is a great space to do it.

2杯目のビール

Location: Nihonbashi

This little shop in the Nihonbashi Commissary offers up a small but solid selection of draft beers in a relaxed and modern setting. While the beer list is good, the real draw is the atmosphere of the Commissary. There are choices like donuts and tacos from neighboring vendors to pair with your drink. Another fun aspect is that a lot of the seating is unique and cozy.

Beer Club Popeye

Location: Ryogoku

A well-known name to those in Tokyo’s craft beer circles, Popeye is often on craft beer lists. It boasts one of the largest beer selections in the city, although I have found it to be a bit hit or miss. The venue can feel cramped, but its historic significance and variety make it a popular spot for many craft beer fans. I don’t often visit this bar because I would much rather have a smaller beer selection that was higher quality and a more comfortable atmosphere. Nevertheless, I included it in the list because other people do seem to enjoy it.

Antenna America

Location: Multiple Locations in Tokyo and Yokohama

Antenna America is popular for lovers of American craft beer. They have locations in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Shinagawa stations, plus a stand-alone shop in Yokohama’s Kanai neighborhood. As part of Nagano Trading, it imports a variety of U.S. craft beers, offering a slice of Americana with its well-stocked fridges, sports broadcasts, and even a foosball table at the Tokyo Station branch. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, but the vibrant atmosphere is worth it.

Craft Beer Tap FAM333

Location: Sendagaya

Craft Beer Tap FAM333 between Shinjuku and Shibuya Stations is one of the few spots open for lunch. Though it may not be a destination in itself for beer, it offers a few drafts and a small selection of cans and bottles. The atmosphere and the aroma of their curry lunch make it a worthwhile stop if you are in the area or simply need a break while exploring.

DevilCraft

Location: Multiple Locations

Famous for its Chicago-style deep dish pizza, DevilCraft offers its pizza along with a decent selection of craft beers. Personally, I find their pizza falls short of authentic Chicago standards, but their beer lineup and snacks make up for it. Boiled peanuts were my favorite menu item and pair wonderfully with their house brews. Even though the pizza may not wow everyone (me included), the fun atmosphere and beer options make one of the shops worth a visit.

Inkhorn Brewing

Location: Meijiro

Inkhorn Brewing has a strong fan base, including many of my friends who rave about their beers. I have tried a few myself, but none of them left a lasting impression. I hoped the taproom experience might change my mind. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the most enjoyable outing. First, the staff left much to be desired. When I asked about a specific beer, the response was curt and unenthusiastic. Since sharing my experience, I have heard similar feedback from both Japanese and foreign visitors.

Secondly, the beers themselves leaned heavily being sweet and heavy—neither of which are my usual preferences. It’s rare for me not to find at least one beer I enjoy, but that was the case here. That said, if you favor sweeter profiles or specific styles/hops, Inkhorn could be worth a try. They clearly take their craft seriously and have a dedicated following.

Hitachino Nest Brewpubs

Location: Multiple locations

My experience with Hitachino Nest beers began before I moved to Japan during my grad school days. Later, while living in Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture, I grew even more familiar with their brewery. Before craft beers became widely and easily available throughout Japan, Hitachino Nest was one of my go-to choices. Now, I find myself exploring other breweries more often. Still, for those wanting a taste of one of Japan’s original craft beers, their brewpubs are worth a visit.

Baird Brewing

Location: Multiple Locations

Baird Brewing was one of the original breweries with taprooms in Tokyo. The Harajuku taproom was once my go-to spot for its beer and food when in the area. While my tastes have since shifted, Baird’s taprooms continue to draw people in and introduce people to Japanese craft beer. Each location offers a unique atmosphere and food menu. While it is not a place I often choose anymore, it remains popular with people in Japan.

Craft Beer Market

Location: Multiple Locations

Before its expansion to other areas of Japan, the shops in Tokyo were some of my favorites for the affordable selection of Japanese beers and delicious foods. The selections vary at each location as they always have. However, the quality and atmosphere has changed greatly since it expanded. Keep an eye on the beer list, as it can be hit or miss, but you can often find a relaxed vibe and decent place to rest.

 

 

This list captures a  glimpse into Tokyo’s ever-growing craft beer scene. New bars and breweries are always emerging. If you have favorite spots or hidden gems, drop a comment or connect with me on Instagram. Happy sipping!

Cheyenne Haney
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