Table of Contents
Introduction
Best clubs in Tokyo, a city that never truly sleeps. Offering a nightlife scene as dynamic and diverse as its culture. Known globally for its vibrant entertainment districts, Tokyo stands as a beacon for night owls and party enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you’re a fan of flashing neon lights and pulsating dance floors or prefer the cozy ambiance of a laid-back lounge, Tokyo has something to cater to every taste.
As you step out into the night, the city transforms into a lively playground. Each district, from the famous Shibuya to the upscale Ginza, offers its own unique flavour of fun after dark. You can find everything from high-energy clubs blasting the latest techno beats to elegant spots where the sounds of live jazz set the tone for a more relaxed evening.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the top ten popular clubs that define Tokyo’s nightlife. From iconic venues known for their world-class DJs and state-of-the-art sound systems to hidden gems that offer an intimate setting for a perfect night out, you’ll get a taste of the best this city has to offer. So, lace up your dancing shoes and prepare to explore the electric, exhilarating night that only Tokyo can offer. Let’s get the party started!
TOP TIP: If you haven’t yet decided where you are going to stay in Tokyo, check out my guide to the best hotels for all budgets here and my guide to the best restaurants for all budgets here
Tokyo Best Clubs: WOMB
Location: 2-16 Maruyamacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: WOMB features a vibrant mix of electronic music genres, including techno, house, and drum & bass. The atmosphere is electric, with a state-of-the-art sound system and impressive laser light shows.
Special Features: WOMB is famous on the Tokyo nightlife scene for its massive mirror ball and excellent acoustics, which make it a favourite for top global DJs.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Generally open from 10 PM until 4 AM. Entry fees vary depending on the event but typically range from 1,000 to 3,500 yen, with special events costing more.
What Makes It Stand Out: Ranked highly among the world’s top nightclubs, WOMB’s dedication to quality sound and lighting, plus its frequent hosting of international DJs, makes it a must-visit for electronic music enthusiasts.
Tokyo Best Clubs: V2 Tokyo
Location: 7 Chome-13-7 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: V2 Tokyo offers a luxurious clubbing experience with a mix of EDM and hip-hop music. The club boasts a stylish interior and panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline.
Special Features: Known for its high-end atmosphere, V2 features VIP areas and often hosts celebrity guests.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Opens at 9 PM and closes at 5 AM. The cover charge varies by event but is typically around 3,000 yen, including one drink.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its glamorous setting and crowd make V2 Tokyo a popular spot for those looking to experience an upscale night out in Tokyo.
Tokyo Best Clubs: 1 OAK Tokyo
Location: 5-10-25 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: 1 OAK brings a slice of New York City’s high-energy nightlife to Tokyo with a hip-hop club leaning and a touch of R&B. The club’s atmosphere is buzzing, with a trendy, well-heeled crowd.
Special Features: Exclusive with a strict door policy, 1 OAK features luxurious décor and often hosts internationally renowned DJs and celebrities.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Typically open from 11 PM to 5 AM. Entry fees are around 3,000 yen, which can vary based on the night and events.
What Makes It Stand Out: The club’s exclusive New York vibe and high-profile guests list make it a standout destination for those looking to party in a venue frequented by celebrities.
Tokyo Best Clubs: Ce La Vi Tokyo
Location: 1 Chome−2−3 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: Ce La Vi offers a mix of house, hip hop club vibes and Top 40 hits, set in a luxurious venue with a rooftop terrace that provides stunning views of the Shibuya skyline.
Special Features: The club features a high-end restaurant and bar, offering both fine dining and a sophisticated nightlife experience. The rooftop terrace is a major draw, especially during warmer months.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Open daily from evening till late, with entry fees starting from 2,500 yen, which includes one drink. Prices and opening hours may vary on event nights.
What Makes It Stand Out: The blend of fine dining, stunning city views, and a vibrant music scene makes Ce La Vi a unique spot that captures the essence of Tokyo’s luxurious nightlife.
Tokyo Best Clubs: Zouk Tokyo
Location: 7 Chome-2-18 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: Known for its electronic dance music, Zouk Tokyo offers a lively and high-energy clubbing environment, attracting a younger, style-conscious crowd.
Special Features: The club is famous for its advanced lighting system dubbed ‘Mothership’ and a state-of-the-art sound system. It’s designed to offer an immersive audio-visual experience.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Generally opens from 10 PM to 5 AM. Entry fees range from 3,000 to 5,000 yen, including one drink, depending on the night and the DJs playing.
What Makes It Stand Out: The club’s cutting-edge technology and architectural design set it apart as a futuristic venue that’s more than just a place to dance—it’s an experience.
Tokyo Best Clubs: TK Nightclub
Location: 2-16 Maruyamacho, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: TK Nightclub features a variety of music genres, primarily focusing on EDM and open-format tracks. The club has a modern, energetic vibe that’s perfect for party-goers looking to dance the night away.
Special Features: The club boasts impressive production values, with high-tech sound and lighting systems. It is known for its spectacular LED displays.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Opens around 9 PM and closes at 5 AM, with cover charges typically starting at 2,000 yen, which often includes a drink.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its central location and state-of-the-art facilities make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists, ensuring a memorable night out with top-tier DJs and entertainment.
Tokyo Best Clubs: El Café Latino
Location: 3 Chome-15-24 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: A different choice here to compete with many of the worlds best Latin live music venues. This club pulsates with the rhythms of Latin America. Offering salsa, bachata, and merengue music. It’s popular among both the Latin community and locals who enjoy the energetic and friendly atmosphere.
Special Features: El Café Latino hosts regular dance lessons and live acts, making it both an entertainment venue and a social dance hub.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Opens in the early evening and closes late, usually around midnight. Entry fees are minimal, often just enough to cover a drink or two.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its authentic Latin vibe and the opportunity to engage with dance makes it a standout spot for those looking to experience a different facet of Tokyo’s nightlife.
Tokyo Best Clubs: Ruby Room
Location: 2-25-17 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: Ruby Room offers a cozy and intimate setting just a short walk from Shibuya Station. With a focus on eclectic and alternative music styles, from indie rock to electronic and hip-hop.
Special Features: The club is also known for its live music nights, hosting local and international bands and DJs in a close-up, personal setting.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Generally open from 7 PM to 5 AM, with a cover charge that varies depending on the event, usually around 1,000 to 2,000 yen.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its intimate atmosphere and diverse programming make it a great place for discovering new music and artists. In a setting that feels more personal and less commercial.
Tokyo Best Clubs: R Lounge
Location: Tosen Udagawa Bld. 6F/7F, 4-7 Udagawa, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: R Lounge boasts a chic and modern atmosphere with a variety of music, from good dance music to top 40 hits. It’s known for its stylish interior and vibrant LED light displays.
Special Features: The venue offers stunning panoramic views of Shibuya, enhancing the clubbing experience with its visual appeal.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Open from 9 PM to 5 AM, with a typical entry fee of about 2,000 yen, which includes a drink.
What Makes It Stand Out: R Lounge is not just a club; it’s a visual spectacle. Offering a luxurious escape above the hustle and bustle of Shibuya’s streets.
Tokyo Best Clubs: Circus Tokyo
Location: 3-26-16 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo
Type of Music and Atmosphere: Circus Tokyo is a hub for electronic music lovers, featuring both up-and-coming and renowned DJs from around the world. The atmosphere is underground and gritty, perfect for those who love to dance without pretense.
Special Features: Known for its excellent sound system and spacious dance floor. The club also hosts various themed nights and special performances.
Operating Hours and Entry Fees: Typically opens at 10 PM and can go on until the early hours, around 5 AM. Entry fees range from 1,000 to 3,500 yen, depending on the night and the event.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its dedication to quality electronic music and an inclusive, unpretentious environment makes it a favourite among serious music fans looking for an authentic dance experience.
Best Days and Times to Go Clubbing
Timing can make all the difference in your Tokyo clubbing experience. Generally, the best nights to hit the clubs are Fridays and Saturdays when the city truly comes alive and clubs host their premier events and special guest DJs. These nights guarantee the full experience with vibrant crowds and energetic atmospheres. For those looking to avoid the weekend rush, Wednesday and Thursday nights can also offer a great experience. Often with fewer crowds, no long lines and sometimes cheaper cover charges.
Performance Timing
Headlining DJ Start Time: The headline DJ typically starts their performance around midnight in Tokyo clubs.
Length of Performance: Headlining DJs or artists generally play sets that last between one to two hours.
Dress Code
Men’s Attire:
Men can opt for good-quality jeans paired with a plain, well-fitted t-shirt or a stylish button-down shirt.
Women’s Attire:
Women might choose to wear jeans or a chic yet comfortable dress.
However, both men and women can always choose to dress more elegantly. Overdressing is never a concern in the Tokyo club scene.
Cultural Etiquettes to Observe
Tokyo is a city of unwritten rules and cultural nuances, and its club scene is no different. Observing a couple of key etiquettes can enhance your experience:
- Politeness: Courtesy goes a long way in Japan. Be polite to staff and fellow clubbers. Queueing is a norm here, so patiently wait your turn for entry, drinks, or even the toilet.
- No Tipping: Unlike many Western countries, tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as rude.
Safety Tips and Transportation Advice
Staying safe while enjoying Tokyo’s nightlife is crucial, but advice is nothing out of the ordinary with any major city:
- Stay in Groups: Especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. It’s safer and more fun to explore Tokyo’s nightlife with friends.
- Watch Your Belongings: Keep a close eye on your personal items, as crowded places can sometimes attract pickpockets.
- Transportation: Most public transport in Tokyo stops running around midnight and resumes by 5 AM. If you plan to stay out beyond the operating hours, you might need to catch a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. Knowing the name and address of your hotel in Japanese or having it saved on your phone can be very helpful.
Conclusion
Exploring Tokyo’s nightlife is an electrifying journey. Through a dazzling array of sounds, lights, and cultural experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. From the vibrant neon lights of Shibuya to the chic, stylish districts of Ginza and Roppongi, each area offers its own unique take on a fun night out. The city is home to some of the world’s best nightclubs. Where international DJs spin everything from hard rock and hip-hop to techno music, creating nights filled with energy and excitement.
For more detail on what to do in Japan checkout my detailed 2-week itinerary
Or if you are tight on time have a look at my perfect 7 day tour of Japan guide here
Whether you’re dancing under bright lights on the main dance floor at clubs like WOMB or enjoying a more laid-back evening in the intimate settings of tiny bars in Golden Gai, Tokyo’s nightlife caters to all tastes. You can experience the best sound systems, spectacular lighting systems, and innovative interior designs that make each club a unique destination. Regular events keep the scene fresh and vibrant. Attracting not just local night owls but also international tourists looking for the best nightlife experiences.
Tokyo invites you to immerse yourself in its world-class DJ events, lively dance floors, and unforgettable nights. Don’t miss the chance to make some memories in one of the best areas for nightlife in the world. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Tokyo’s club scene is sure to provide a spectacular backdrop for a great night out.
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