When visiting Minato, Tokyo, you’ll find a vibrant and diverse drinking scene that caters to all tastes, from traditional Japanese beverages to trendy international cocktails.

Start by experiencing sake, Japan’s iconic rice wine, which is widely available in many izakayas (Japanese pubs) and specialized sake bars throughout Minato. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, often paired with local dishes for a truly authentic taste of Japan.

For those interested in traditional drinks, try shochu, a distilled spirit made from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice. It’s popular in many local bars and offers a stronger alternative to sake, with a smooth flavor that complements grilled foods like yakitori.

Minato is also home to a growing number of craft beer bars and pubs, featuring both Japanese craft brews and international selections. Areas like Roppongi and Azabu-Juban have lively spots where you can sample unique beers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

If you prefer cocktails, the upscale lounges and bars in districts like Roppongi and Akasaka are perfect for sipping expertly crafted drinks, often with a Japanese twist. Bartenders here use local ingredients such as yuzu citrus, matcha, and shiso leaves to create refreshing and innovative cocktails.

For tea lovers, Minato offers many traditional green tea houses and cafés, where you can enjoy matcha (powdered green tea) served in a ceremonial style or in modern drinks like matcha lattes and iced teas.

Lastly, don’t miss trying umeshu, a sweet plum wine that’s popular as a dessert drink and is available in many restaurants and bars throughout the district.

Overall, Minato’s drinking scene offers a rich variety of flavors and experiences, blending traditional Japanese beverages with global trends, making it an exciting destination for anyone looking to explore Japan’s drink culture.