A night out drinking is one of the most enjoyable parts of Japanese nightlife. But many visitors wonder: “Until what time can you actually drink alcohol in Japan?” In particular, people often want to know more about the opening hours of snack bars. In this article, we’ll explain both the general rules about drinking hours in Japan and the typical business hours of snack bars. With this knowledge, you can enjoy your night without worries!

Drinking Hours in Japan

First, let’s look at the overall drinking rules in Japan. Legally, there are no time restrictions on drinking alcohol itself. However, restaurants, bars, and snack bars must follow operating hours regulated by law.

Restaurant and Bar Hours

Many restaurants and bars close around midnight (12:00 AM). However, in major entertainment districts, it’s common to find places open until 2:00 or 3:00 AM, and sometimes even until 5:00 AM. This is because establishments that are licensed under Japan’s adult entertainment business law (Fūzoku Eigyō Hō) are allowed to operate late into the night.

For example, nightlife hotspots such as Shinjuku and Shibuya in Tokyo or Umeda and Shinsaibashi in Osaka are filled with late-night venues where you can drink until morning.

Snack Bar Hours

Now, let’s focus on snack bars—small, cozy establishments where you can enjoy drinks and conversations with the “mama” (hostess) or staff behind the counter.

Most snack bars are open from around 6:00 PM until 2:00 or 3:00 AM, depending on their license.

In central districts such as Shinjuku and Ginza (Tokyo’s Chūō ward), it’s common to find snack bars open until 3:00 AM. In big cities, customer demand keeps them open late into the night.

Regional Differences and Legal Restrictions

Business hours can vary by region. In smaller cities or suburban areas, many snack bars close earlier, around 1:00 or 2:00 AM, reflecting local lifestyles and public transportation schedules.

Snack bars are also regulated under the adult entertainment business law, which may restrict late-night operations near residential neighborhoods to prevent noise and trouble. In local towns, shorter train schedules also influence closing times, leading to earlier hours compared to big cities.

Summary

In Japan, there are no restrictions on when you can drink alcohol, but restaurants, bars, and snack bars must follow local and legal regulations regarding operating hours. Some venues have even adjusted their business styles due to changes in the law. Since hours differ depending on the region and establishment, it’s always best to check in advance.

When planning your night out, browsing the snack bars listed on Snack Heirasshai can be a helpful way to find the perfect spot. Enjoy your evening to the fullest!

▷ [See the list of Snack Bars here]

Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!

You can enjoy many kinds of drink at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many　but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.

Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.

When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!

Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.

New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!