Have you ever had a beer so delicious you thought, “just how did they come up with this?” These Tokyo-based breweries are willing to let you in on the secret … or at least give you a sneak peek at the process. Experience the world of Japanese craft beer right at the source with these on-site breweries and taprooms.
1. Spring Valley Brewery
You’ll find Spring Valley in Daikanyama, helpfully indicated along the street by mural monsters advertising that craft beer is nearby. Spring Valley is the craft beer experiment of Kirin, and their selection shows a creative direction very distinct from the golden “Ichiban.” Nice weather accommodates terrace seating, or head inside for a better view of the brewing vats. Spring Valley even offers beer to-go in a lidded cup. Enjoy a beer while you window shop along the Log Road shopping street.
Address: Log Road Daikanyama, 13-1 Daikanyama-cho, Shibuya-ku
Closest Station: Daikanyama Station
2. Y.Y.G. Brewery & Beer Kitchen
With names that honor some of Tokyo’s most distinguished neighborhoods, the brews from Y.Y.G. break boundaries of flavor at their multifaceted brewing location. On the first floor, you can enjoy a quick drink of their award-winning ales, either on the terrace or inside where you can get a full view of the brewing process. Upstairs is the Beer Kitchen, for a full dining experience with a range of cuisine and exquisite decor.
Address: 1F/7F, 2-18-3 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku
Closest Station: Minami-Shinjuku Station
3. Far Yeast Brewery & Grill
This grill with an industrial feel offers freshly brewed beer from Far Yeast brewery, with beers inspired by Japanese concepts and flavors. Limited edition brews are sometimes offered exclusively at the grill, if the atmosphere and the renowned selection weren’t enough motivation. You can find this impressive spot near Gotanda Station.
Address: 1-15-6 Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku
Closest Station: Osaki-Hirokoji Station
4. Riot Beer Brewery & Taproom
This hole-in-the-wall taproom brews their beer in the back and serves it in the front of their establishment in Setagaya. Since 2018, Riot Beer has grown from minimalist beginnings to a place full of personality. While the space is small, it remains popular among locals and invites friendly conversation between patrons. Their circulating menu of rebellious brews is complemented by their modest menu of tasty eats, so you can snack in style.
Address: 5-11-10 Kinuta, Setagaya-ku
Closest Station: Soshigaya-Okura Station
5. CRAFTROCK Brewpub & Live
CRAFTROCK lives up to its name: their unique craft beers are listed on their menu alongside the rock song that inspired them. Whether you favor Green Day, The Smiths, or CHAI, there’s a brew for you. Their menu offers a wide selection of bar favorites with a CRAFTROCK twist. This brewpub hosts live musicians, so you can savor your beer while being entertained. The atmosphere is perfect for those who enjoy a lively drinking and dining experience.
Address: COREDO Muromachi Terrace 1F, 3-2-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku
Closest Station: Mitsukoshimae Station
6. Sakazuki Brewing
Style and function come together with Sakazuki Brewing. Their first floor hosts their extensive brewery and taproom, where guests can sample fresh beer with the guide of an expertly detailed profile of each brew. Sakazuki’s gastronomic ventures take the spotlight on the second floor, where they serve a mix of traditional pub food and elevated dishes to complement their beverage menu.
Address: 1-20-11 Senju, Adachi-ku
Closest Station: Kita-Senju Station
7. Hitachino Brewing Lab
Under the riverside red brick arches of old Chuo Line tracks is this brewery of the popular “Nest Beer.” While they primarily aim to serve cold beer and refreshments, from sandwiches to sausages, this Hitachino location features an in-house brewing apparatus. The wall shelves are adorned with all the fixings involved in the beer making process, particularly jars of hops galore. Their display of ingredients along with test tubes that align their offered brews from lightest to darkest emphasize the laboratory theme, for those who appreciate the science behind brewing.
Address: N1, 1-25-4 Kanda-Sudacho, Chiyoda-ku
Closest Station: Kanda Station
8. T.Y. Harbor
Last but not least, this spot is a classic destination for Tokyo brew fans. A pioneer of brewery dining in Japan, T.Y. Harbor in Tokyo Bay started serving up American-style craft beer in the mid-90s, and has since developed a legacy as one of Tokyo’s foremost providers of beer and good times. Experience the history and taste of this impressive brewery with a waterside view.
Address: 2-1-6 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Closest Station: Tennozu Isle Station
If you’re still thirsty, Beer Cats has revolutionized Tokyo’s imported craft beer market, both with their online delivery service and their collaboration with importers AQ Bevolution: the taproom TITANS in Ikebukuro! Once you’ve tried all the local beer Tokyo has to offer, take a sip from the imported beers on tap at TITANS, where their care in selecting and serving craft beer ensures a quality experience.
RECOMMENDED: Check out Eight of the Best Beer Gardens around Tokyo
