Many Tokyoites see Otsuka, a small, quaint neighbourhood along the Yamanote Line loop, as a place for cheap drinks, good food and plenty of entertainment. They are right, but there’s more to this historic area. Otsuka was a busy hub of commerce back in the Taisho era (1912-1926) just before the war, and its streets were lined with cinemas, theatres, ryotei (restaurants served by geisha) and more.
Much has been said about the nightlife in Ginza, Shibuya and Asakusa, but now it’s time for Otsuka to shine. There’s been a renewed interest in the neighbourhood, as new businesses, particularly hotels, have sprung up in recent years. There will be more coming as Tokyo is gearing up for the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics.
To help tourists explore Otsuka’s vibrant nightlife, we at Time Out Tokyo have partnered up with Toshima City to create a new ‘Otsuka After Dark’ guide map listing 20 of the best things to do in the area at night. Some of the recommended venues include an underground whisky bar (Bar Bla), a smoked beer microbrewery and bar (Namachan Brewing), a tonkatsu specialist (Sansetsu), a sake izakaya (Jizakeya Motto), a live jazz bar (Donfan), and more.
With the release of this new map, we’ve also put together a ‘Otsuka After Dark’ nightlife starter kit, which consists of an exclusive tote bag, the aforementioned guide map and coupons redeemable for deals at participating outlets – all for just ¥3,000. To launch this new Otsuka nightlife tourism initiative, Toshima City put on an event at Otsuka Station South Square on Saturday night December 22. The ceremony featured a traditional Awa dance performance to entertain the guests and local crowds.
You can now purchase the starter kit for just ¥3,000 here, or buy one at the ‘heart house’ information centre at Otsuka Station South Square. Alternatively, you can also pick up a copy of the map at the participating restaurants and bars in the area.
When you’re out and about in Otsuka, look out for our banners and posters. Restaurants and bars which display them at the door are the ones featured in the new guide map – so you know you’re in for a good time.
Purchase your 'Otsuka After Dark' nightlife starter kit now – click here.