Kamiya Bar
1 / 10

Kamiya Bar

4.6
·491k reviews·,

Japan's first Western-style bar since 1880. Experience a living piece of history with unique cocktails and classic bar food.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Kamiya Bar

Kamiya Bar

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Japan's first Western-style bar since 1880. Experience a living piece of history with unique cocktails and classic bar food.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This place was so cool! Very fun to stop in and have a drink at one of the oldest bars in Japan."

TIP

Ordering System

Keep your meal tickets visible on the table for efficient service.

Denki-Bran Varieties

Try both the 'Old' (40% ABV) and regular (30% ABV) Denki-Bran for different experiences.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 11AM

Cuisine

Japanese Western Fusion

Price

$

Phone

+81 3-3841-5400

Address

神谷ビル, 1 Chome-1-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Ambiance

Historic Ambiance

Step back in time at Japan's very first Western-style bar, established in 1880. Experience a truly iconic and historic Tokyo institution.

Nightlife in TokyoA culinary guide to Tokyo8 best heritage restaurants in Tokyo+4
Signature Denki-Bran Cocktail

Signature Denki-Bran Cocktail

Savor the unique and potent 'Denki-Bran', a historic cocktail served in iconic glassware. A true taste of Tokyo's bar history.

Nightlife in TokyoA culinary guide to Tokyo8 best heritage restaurants in Tokyo+4
Izakaya-Style Dining

Izakaya-Style Dining

Enjoy a delightful array of traditional Izakaya-type foods and Japanese-Western fusion dishes that perfectly complement your drinks.

A culinary guide to TokyoGoogle Review+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tokyo Survived. So Did This Bar and Tree In the heart of Asakusa, Tokyo, stands Kamiya Bar — untouched by time, earthquakes, and war. Just steps away, a tree near Sensoji Temple still grows strong, having survived both the Great Kanto Earthquake and the Tokyo air raids. This isn’t just a place. It’s a living memory. Touch it. Feel it. Remember. 🎥 Shot & narrated by Ryo Masahero, marine engineer & ...
@rjomasafoundation
39 likes • 815 views

Ordering System

Keep your meal tickets visible on the table for efficient service.

Denki-Bran Varieties

Try both the 'Old' (40% ABV) and regular (30% ABV) Denki-Bran for different experiences.

Izakaya in the ❤️​ of Shinjuku 👀 Kamiya is a motsuyaki bar in the middle of Shinjuku, just seconds from Godzilla. 😚 This restaurant has been in business for more than 40 years. 😍 The owner is super energetic and welcoming 🥰 It is a Showa-era space where you can take a break and forget for a moment that you are in Kabukicho. 🤗 They have a variety of Motsuyaki for 70yen per piece, and the minimum is...
@japanguide
49 likes • 11.3K views
Tokyo Foodie Alert: Kamiya in Shinjuku is where the locals go for motsuyaki magic! Just a quick step from the famous Toho cinema (yes, where Godzilla is!), this bar has been rocking for over 40 years. The owner? A legend! Enjoy the Showa-era nostalgia while munching on Motsuyaki for just 70 yen per piece. Who’s up for an epic Shinjuku food adventure? #ShinjukuEats #TokyoFoodie #HiddenGemsTokyo ...
@japanguide
11 likes • 526 views

Cash Payments

Kamiya Bar is cash only, so be sure to bring enough yen for your visit.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

To ensure seating, consider visiting during less busy times.

【明治13年創業】日本一古いBARで嗜むお酒とハンバーグが最高だった!「神谷バー」 quuZv_v5d-U
@user8369678816391
0 likes • 166 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ordering System

Keep your meal tickets visible on the table for efficient service.

Denki-Bran Varieties

Try both the 'Old' (40% ABV) and regular (30% ABV) Denki-Bran for different experiences.

Cash Payments

Kamiya Bar is cash only, so be sure to bring enough yen for your visit.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

To ensure seating, consider visiting during less busy times.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kamiya Bar is celebrated as Japan's oldest Western-style bar, offering a unique historical ambiance and the signature Denki-Bran cocktail. While many praise its rich history, friendly atmosphere, and affordable prices, some find the ordering system a bit cafeteria-style and the decor functional rather than cozy. The food is generally considered good, particularly the Izakaya-style offerings.

"Fantastic old beer drinking hall.
Local Japanese are sooo friendly and appreciate you visit their great bar.
Love the ordering and ticket process.
Very unique and special."

Stuart Stripling

"It is the first “Bar” in Japan, opened in 1880. They are famous for their history, and their special cocktail called “Denki-Bran” in the iconic cocktail glass. They offer typical Izakaya-type food, plus Japanese-style Western food dishes.

The inside is pretty big, with communal table everywhere. We were lucky to find two seats, as it was busy. Once you get a seat, you need to go back to near the entrance area, where there is an ordering station. It looks more like a host/hostess table. You put in your order, get tickets, and go back to your seat.

Once you go back to your table with your meal tickets, the staffs on the floor will take care of you. Our drink orders came in quickly. We ordered Draft Beer and their iconic, signature drink, Denki-Bran.

They have two kinds of Denki-Bran, “Old” and regular (current) Denki-Bran. The “Old” Denki-Bran has 40%, and the regular Denki-Bran has 30%. It is a very strong drink, the first sip was so surprising with its high alcohol percentage, it was as if you are getting a bit of electric shock…

We waited for our food while we sipped our drinks. Remember to keep the meal tickets on your table so that the staffs know what your table is getting. We got Kushikatsu, Japanese Fried Chicken, Deep Fried Oysters, Crab Croquette, and Shrimp Macaroni Gratin. They were all nice comforting food, went great with alcoholic beverages. Once you place your first order at the ordering station, you can then start placing orders with any staffs on the floor.

For the perfect ending, we decided to get something made with their special sake wine, Bee Brand Kozan Grape Wine. We ordered Bee Brand Grape Punch. It was very nice and refreshing, more on the sweet side which I liked. It had a resemblance to Port wine a bit with the sweetness. You can have the wine as is, without anything added to it as well.

We had a fun dinner here. We consumed comfort food, interesting drinks, and lots of history as well. I am glad I got to visit the first bar in Japan! Be aware that they are CASH ONLY so make sure you bring cash."

Foodlover Girl

"I visited Kamiya Bar out of curiosity and a love for old-school institutions. This bar has been around since 1880, so I expected some character or at least a hint of charm. Unfortunately, the vibe fell flat.

As you enter, you order at a counter on the right — very cafeteria-style. It’s cash only, and they hand you a coupon to give to the staff, who bring your order to your table. Efficient, sure, but not exactly warm or inviting.

I tried the famed Denki Bran, as recommended. It’s an interesting, slightly medicinal spirit — worth trying once for the novelty. I paired it with a small beer, just to refresh. While both drinks were fine, the overall experience lacked the cozy or nostalgic feel you’d hope for in a bar with this much history.

There aren’t many traditional food or drink options, and the atmosphere feels more functional than friendly. If you’re into historical spots just to say you’ve been, it’s worth a quick visit. But if you’re looking for ambiance, depth, or a proper bar experience, Kamiya might leave you underwhelmed."

markos paterakis

What People Like

Historic atmosphere
Signature Denki-Bran cocktail
Affordable prices

What People Dislike

Cafeteria-style ordering
Functional decor
Cash-only policy

Frequently Asked Questions

Denki-Bran is a historic cocktail invented at Kamiya Bar, made with a blend of brandy, gin, wine, and curaçao. It's known for its unique flavor and potency.

Nightlife in TokyoA culinary guide to TokyoDining in Asakusa: 10 Famous Traditional Japanese Restaurants

Yes, Kamiya Bar operates on a cash-only basis, so please be sure to bring enough cash for your order.

Google Review+1

The bar can get busy, especially on weekends. Visiting during off-peak hours is recommended for easier seating.

Kamiya Bar offers a mix of Izakaya-style dishes and Japanese-Western fusion food, with highly recommended Japanese options.

A culinary guide to TokyoGoogle Review

There is no formal dress code mentioned; the atmosphere is generally casual and welcoming.

Reservations are generally not accepted, as it's a walk-in establishment. Be prepared for potential waits during busy periods.

Google Review

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

Fodor’s Travel

Nightlife in Tokyo

Tokyo's oldest Western-style bar hasn't had a face-lift for decades (the main building is registered as a tangible cultural property) and that's part of what draws so many drinkers to this bright, noisy venue. The other major attraction is the Denki Bran, a delicious but hangover-inducing cocktail (comprising gin, red wine, brandy, and curaçao) that was invented here about 100 years ago and is now stocked by bars throughout Japan.

Visit Source →
Travel

A culinary guide to Tokyo

A Tokyo stalwart, Kamiya Bar was the city’s first Western-style bar when it opened in the late 1800s. Staff in jackets and ties add an old-school vibe, but the boisterous atmosphere and menu are more reminiscent of an izakaya. Try a shot of the signature denki bran (‘electric brandy’), a mix of curacao, gin and brandy.

Visit Source →
Time Out

8 best heritage restaurants in Tokyo

It’s the oldest Western-style bar in Tokyo and one of the friendliest to boot. The crowds certainly come here for the atmosphere – loud and occasionally raucous – that's typical of old-school working-class Asakusa. The house special is the Denki Bran cocktail (brandy, gin, wine, curacao and herbs).

Visit Source →
The Culture Trip

The Best Bars In Taito Ward, Tokyo

Established during the late 1800s, Kamiya is one of Tokyo’s oldest bars. It’s lively and loud on weekends and has a reputation for being friendly and welcoming. They’re famous for their cocktails and especially their denki-bran, aka electric brandy.

Visit Source →
Lonely Planet

Drinking and nightlife Asakusa & Sumida River, Tokyo

In the former Yanagibashi entertainment district, this cafe, bar and gallery was once the home of geisha and popular singer Ichimaru. Rotating exhibits by…

Visit Source →
asakusastation.com

Dining in Asakusa – The Top Ten Restaurants – Asakusa Station

Kamiya Bar first opened in 1880 and is believed to be Japan’s oldest Western-style bar. The current building dates from 1921 and is registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property. This is a great spot to experience a real “shitamachi” or downtown social atmosphere, and it offers a literal taste of history, as some of the drinks on offer date all the way back to Japan’s 19th century Meiji period.

Visit Source →
MATCHA

Dining in Asakusa: 10 Famous Traditional Japanese Restaurants

Kamiya Bar is a famous store recognized as the first Western-style bar established in Japan, in 1880. Their most recommended drink is the Denkiburan, a whisky-based cocktail with a history dating back over 100 years - but the secret of the blend is still kept secret!. As for cuisine, the stews served here, which use a kombu dashi stewed for three hours, are also made from a popular secret recipe.

Visit Source →
Jetsetting Fools

10 Fun Tokyo Bars: The Best Bars in Tokyo, Japan

A legendary establishment, Kamiya Bar ranks as one of our favorite places to drink in Tokyo. The old-school beer hall dates to 1880 and holds the title of being Tokyo’s oldest Western-style bar. Frequented by both locals and tourists, the bright open space, shared tables, and lackluster decor are reminiscent of VFW canteens in America (minus the flags, of course).

Visit Source →
Nomunication

Asakusa Drinking Guide

Kamiya Bar opened in April of 1880, allegedly Tokyo’s first Western-style bar. I say allegedly since I find it somewhat hard to believe that there were really 20 years between Japan’s first Western-style bar (in Yokohama, 1860) and Tokyo’s first Western-style bar. Yokohama really isn’t even that far from Tokyo.

Visit Source →
Tatler Asia

7 Famous Restaurants In Tokyo With A Fascinating History

This is the first Western-style bar in Japan, and was opened around 1880. Kamiya Bar has three storeys: the first is for single drinkers, the second for families and groups, and the third is a special area to enjoy Japanese cuisine. Its signature cocktail is the brandy-based Denki Bran, meaning "electricity".

Visit Source →
PUNCH

The Best Craft Cocktail Bars in Tokyo

Unlike many of Tokyo's newfangled cocktail bars—often hidden and dark—Kamiya has very few aesthetic charms. But guests don't come here for the looks or for fancy drinks. They come because it's a Tokyo institution and has been around decades longer than any of Ginza's stoic drinking establishments.

Visit Source →
JRPass.com

Guide to Asakusa Tokyo: Top 10 visits

Established in the late 1800s, the Kamiya Bar is the oldest western style bar in Japan and well known country wide. Even today it remains true to its heritage, serving low cost drinks to the locals. One sale is a special “Denki Bran” or electric brandy, which is only sold and brewed at Kamiya.

Visit Source →
Ninja Food Tours

Top Things to do in Asakusa, Tokyo in 2025

The oldest western style bar in all of Tokyo, established in 1880. Here you can peek in and see what life is like for the average Japanese working class. They have an original drink called the Denki Bran, or electric brandy, which is a sweet blend of wine, gin, and brandy.

Visit Source →
Justfly.vn

Top 7 quán bar nổi tiếng nhất ở phường Taito, Tokyo

Được thành lập vào cuối những năm 1800, Kamiya là một trong những quán bar lâu đời nhất của Tokyo. Nó sôi động và ồn ào nhất là vào cuối tuần và có tiếng là thân thiện và nồng hậu. Dù là bạn là người Nhật hay khách du lịch ngoại quốc thì đều được chào đón ở đây.

Visit Source →
Visit Authentic TOKYO

Light up your Night with Illuminating Sights: Discovering Asakusa After Dark | News

Then head over to Kamiya Bar, the first bar in Japan, located across Kaminarimon-dori from Matsuya. This historic bar has been loved by many literary giants and is known for its unique brandy-based cocktail, "Denkibran," which dates back to the Meiji era.

Visit Source →
FLIP Japan Guide

Top 4 Underground Asakusa Bars For An Epic Night Out

This legendary watering hole was established in the late 1800s, and is the oldest western-style bar in Tokyo. Kamiya Bar is really a quintessential Asakusa experience, a little noisy and a little smokey, and plenty old-school. This place is legit.

Visit Source →
Travelers Blog by WHG Hotels

Walk Around Asakusa to Seek for Instagrammable Spots with a Nostalgic Atmosphere or Modern Scenery

The building which has kept watching over the development of Asakusa for over 130 years, is registered as Tangible Cultural Property. When it gets dark, this building is illuminated by warm light.

Visit Source →
asakusa-tokyo.com

Kamiya bar | Tokyo Asakusa Navi

Visit Source →