5 ways to experience Marunouchi after dark

Marunouchi is an ideal destination for a stylish and relaxed evening. Just steps from Tokyo Station, this elegant district offers a wide range of dining and nightlife options – many of which are open until 11pm or midnight. Take your pick from casual bites, refined Japanese cuisine, bold Asian flavours, or even authentic Mexican fare. For drinks with a view, head over to one of Marunouchi’s many terrace bars, perfect for a special night out. 

Top picks include Marunouchi(House) on the 7th floor of the Shin-Marunouchi Building, where you can enjoy cocktails alongside panoramic views of Tokyo Station. Nearby, Marunouchi Brick Square offers a charming European-esque atmosphere with open-air seating ideal for a laid-back dinner or drink. For something more unique, make a visit to Ginza Jyuji Marunouchi, where you can enjoy an entertaining magic show while you dine. Afterwards, wind down your evening with a stroll down the art-lined Marunouchi Nakadori street.

For stunning sunsets and skyline views, head to the Maru Building and Shin-Marunouchi Building – both are packed with restaurants, shops and terraces perfect for capturing golden hour and night views. 

On the 35th floor of Maru Building, you’ll find a west-facing lounge with free entry, where you can catch the city’s beautiful sunset along with sweeping views of Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Bay in the distance. If you’d like food to accompany the views, the 5th floor offers plenty of eateries and bars with terraces overlooking Tokyo Station. 

Over at the neighbouring Shin-Marunouchi Building, the 7th floor Marunouchi(House) features a variety of bars and restaurants, each with terrace seating offering views of Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace grounds and Marunouchi. Time your visit for sunset to catch the golden hour, and don’t forget to stop by the ‘Marunouchi Tokyo’ photo spot for a fun snapshot of the Marunouchi sign with Japan’s busiest train station in the background.

If you’re looking to treat yourself, Marunouchi is home to numerous fine dining establishments where you can indulge in exceptional food with views to match.

On the 36th floor of the Maru Building you'll find Breeze of Tokyo, a modern French grill and bar known for its fine wines and seasonal dishes prepared with expert grilling techniques. The panoramic cityscape provides the perfect backdrop for a stylish evening in the centre of Tokyo.

Sharing the same floor is Antica Osteria del Ponte, the first overseas outpost of the Milan-based restaurant. It serves authentic Milanese cuisine in a refined setting with views stretching from Tokyo Skytree to Tokyo Bay. Window seats offer prime views and can be reserved from ¥27,500 per person for dinner course meals (table charge included).  

For upscale Japanese cuisine, head over to Usukifugu Yamadaya on the 35th floor of the Maru Building. Specialising in expertly prepared fugu (pufferfish), this restaurant offers multi-course meals (¥26,620-¥38,720) featuring this delicacy from Usuki City in Oita prefecture, all to be enjoyed alongside dazzling night views.

Marunouchi’s streets are home to numerous historic buildings intermixed with upscale boutiques, making it an ideal place for a post-dinner stroll. Here are some standout spots to explore. 

On the way to the Imperial Palace, don’t miss the beautifully illuminated Sakuradamon Gate. Designated an Important Cultural Property, the gate stands out along the inner moat and is lit up daily from sunset to 9pm, offering a stunning contrast between the traditional structure and Marunouchi’s modern skyline. 

Originally built in 1961 to commemorate imperial weddings, Wadakura Fountain Park is a peaceful nighttime retreat beside the Imperial Palace moat. After dusk, the illuminated fountains and shimmering city lights reflect off the water, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.

Marunouchi’s picturesque Nakadori street is the ideal place for a quiet evening walk as it is lined with stylish boutiques and numerous public art installations. While it’s a lovely spot to stroll year-round, it truly shines from November to February during the Marunouchi Illumination, when champagne-gold lights are wrapped around the trees giving the street a festive glow.

Marunouchi offers a diverse mix of bars, from upscale lounges to casual izakaya – perfect whether you’re out with friends or flying solo.

Marunouchi Brick Square is a relaxing dining spot centered around a green courtyard. Enjoy terrace seating surrounded by art and nature, or head to Ginza Jyuji Marunouchi for dinner paired with an impressive magic show. For something a little more elevated, try out Café 1894 situated inside the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum, which is conveniently open until 11pm. If you’re in the mood for something livelier, the basement level of the building features a fun mix of izakaya and casual eateries that stay open until late into the evening. 

On the 7th floor of the Shin-Marunouchi Building, you’ll find Marunouchi(House), a unique space home to 12 bars and restaurants with open terraces and views of Tokyo Station. It’s a great spot to unwind with a drink and try out several different venues all in one night. The atmosphere amps up on Thursday and Friday evenings when DJs and other events take the floor. Note: DJ schedules may vary depending on the event.

Another fun spot is Marunouchi Base, a retro-American diner and entertainment zone spread across two floors. The first floor channels classic diner vibes, while the second level offers darts, karaoke, drinks and more.

The SG Tavern offers a unique experience inspired by an 1865 voyage when 19 young samurai travelled to England to study abroad. The menu retraces this journey through a unique blend of Japanese and global flavours, all served in a British-inspired tavern setting. Don’t miss their original cocktails, some of which are made with SG Group's house spirit, The SG Shochu.

Since 2005, Cotton Club has brought the spirit of New York’s jazz scene to Marunouchi. This classy venue pairs world-class live performances with food and drinks, making it a great choice for an elegant night out.

For more on what to see and do in Marunouchi after dark, visit the website.