Tokyo Shibuya Hidden Izakaya and Karaoke Night Tour

Tokyo Shibuya Hidden Izakaya and Karaoke Night Tour offers a fantastic way to explore Tokyo through a blend of local food, drinks, and lively social moments. With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 14 reviews, this tour stands out for its intimate feel, authentic experiences, and expert guides leading the way. It’s a great choice for travelers looking to see a different side of Tokyo’s nightlife—off the beaten path and full of character.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it combines two classic Japanese nightlife staples: a cozy, hidden izakaya with delicious food and drinks, followed by an hour of private karaoke—a quintessential Japanese pastime. Second, the guides, praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, help you discover spots you would likely never stumble upon alone. Third, it offers good value at just $24.78 per person, especially considering the food, drinks, and the personalized attention.

One aspect to keep in mind is that food and drink costs aren’t included in the base price, so bringing some cash is necessary. Also, the karaoke entrance fee (~¥1000-2000) is paid separately, which is worth knowing for budgeting your night. This tour is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager for an authentic, social night out in Tokyo’s lively Shibuya district.

Key Points

• Authentic experience in Tokyo’s nightlife scene with local guides
• Hidden izakaya offers a cozy, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere
• Includes unlimited drinks (sake, shochu, highballs, more) at the izakaya
• Private karaoke session to sing your favorite songs in a lively setting
• Affordable price point with high reviews for value and fun
• Small group experience (max 6 travelers) for personalized attention

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Hidden Izakaya Experience

The tour begins in Shibuya at Oliver’s Place Olive Lounge, where you’re welcomed into a secretive, cozy izakaya tucked away in a building along the railroad tracks. This spot isn’t the kind of place you’d discover on your own, which is part of its charm. Reviewers frequently mention having no idea this gem existed before the tour—highlighting the value of guided access to such hidden locales.

Once inside, you’ll be treated to two hours of unlimited drinks and delicious Japanese foods. Guests have praised the quality of the food, with mentions of fresh sashimi and the signature dish, Japanese Oden. The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, offering a perfect setting for relaxing, socializing, and tasting a variety of drinks like sake, shochu, and whiskey highballs.

Guests have lauded their guides, such as “Naoki” and “Rikuu,” for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer shared that Naoki was outstanding, responsible, and confident, making the experience both enjoyable and informative. The guides are known for creating a welcoming vibe, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the night.

The Karaoke Night

After the izakaya, the energy ramps up with one hour of private karaoke in a local Shibuya bar. This isn’t just about singing a few songs; it’s about experiencing Japan’s legendary karaoke culture in a private room with friends. Reviewers repeatedly mention how much fun they had belting out tunes, laughing, and connecting with fellow travelers.

The karaoke fee (~¥1000-2000) is paid separately, but reviews suggest it’s a small price for such memorable fun. Guides often join in, making the session even more lively—one described singing Japanese pop songs from the 80s, which added a nostalgic touch to the night.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, which means you’ll get a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to chat, ask questions, and make new friends. Many reviews highlight how guides like Kei, Rikuu, and Sho made the night special, sharing their local tips and ensuring everyone had a good time.

This small group size enhances the authentic, social vibe, making it more than just another tour—it feels like a night out with friends. It’s perfect for solo travelers wanting company or couples seeking a fun night in a vibrant city.

The Value of the Tour

Priced at just $24.78 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Considering the included food, drinks, and guided experience, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Japanese nightlife without the hassle of navigating alone or paying high prices at busy bars.

While food and drinks are paid separately, reviewers mention that the quality and quantity are worth it. The guides’ local insights mean you’re likely to try spots and dishes you wouldn’t find on your own, adding to the overall value.

Authenticity and Social Connection

Many reviews emphasize the social aspect—joining a group, sharing drinks, and singing together creates a lively, memorable atmosphere. Guides like Kei and Rikuu help facilitate connections, making the experience feel genuine rather than touristy. This is especially valuable if you want to experience Tokyo nightlife as a local might.

The Experience’s Highlights

• Discovering a hidden gem in Shibuya, away from tourist crowds
• Sampling authentic Japanese foods in a cozy setting
• Enjoying unlimited drinks with friendly company
• Participating in private karaoke, a beloved Japanese pastime
• Connecting with guides and fellow travelers in a small group
• Ending the night with stories, laughs, and maybe a new friend or two

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Remember to bring cash for food, drinks, and karaoke fees
• The tour starts promptly at 7:30 pm at Oliver’s Place Olive Lounge, so arrive on time
• The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, so plan your evening accordingly
• Wear comfortable clothing—it’s a casual night out, and the guides will take you on a short walk between stops
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with reviews noting that nearly everyone can participate
• Confirm your booking in advance, as the tour is popular and booked on average 49 days ahead
• Enjoy the small-group atmosphere—don’t forget your singing voice!

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re a solo traveler eager to meet others, or a couple wanting a fun, authentic night out. It’s also ideal for small groups looking to explore Tokyo’s lesser-known spots and embrace Japanese nightlife culture in a relaxed, social setting. If you love food, drinks, and singing, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s worth noting that this tour has been highly recommended by travelers, with many mentioning guides like Kei, Rikuu, Sho, and Naoki for making the night special. If you’re after a lively, authentic, and affordable way to experience Tokyo after dark, this tour is a fantastic option.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are paid separately, but the included price covers the restaurant booking fee and guided walking tour.

How much are the karaoke fees?
Karaoke entrance fees range from roughly ¥1000 to ¥2000, paid separately from the tour.

What’s the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at Oliver’s Place Olive Lounge in Shibuya at 7:30 pm, and it ends back at the same location.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts about 3 hours, with 2 hours at the izakaya and 1 hour for karaoke.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention joining alone and having a great time connecting with guides and fellow travelers.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Japanese?
Yes, the guide speaks English, and the experience is designed to be accessible and fun regardless of language skills.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 49 days in advance is typical, as the tour is popular and limited to small groups.

To sum it up, the Tokyo Shibuya Hidden Izakaya and Karaoke Night Tour offers a genuine taste of local nightlife, blending delicious food, drinks, and singing in a cozy, off-the-beaten-path setting. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to experience Tokyo’s vibrant social scene in an authentic way, with the added bonus of expert guides making the night memorable. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, this tour promises a fun, social, and immersive evening in the heart of Shibuya.