A lantern-lit alley of micro izakayas steps from Shibuya Crossing—still clinging to Showa-era charm beneath the neon sky.
MK Guide Recommends
Tucked in plain sight just behind Shibuya Station, Nonbei Yokocho—or “Drunkard’s Alley”—is a rare pocket of pre-redevelopment Tokyo that has resisted the city’s glass-and-steel rush. Its narrow lanes are lined with wooden facades, red lanterns, and a few dozen tiny bars and yakitori joints, each seating only a handful of patrons. The mood is quiet and conversational, often with just one staff member running the show. Regulars nurse highballs while newcomers peek in hesitantly, searching for a welcoming nod. It’s less about the food than the atmosphere—intimate, smoky, and timeless. For a taste of old Shibuya before the screens, Nonbei Yokocho still pours with soul.
Facilities & Services
- No reservations; walk-ins only
- Counter seating; space is limited
- Some bars charge seating fees
- English menus vary by venue
- Peak hours are evening to late night
Contact
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