Albatross
Albatross is a three-story bar in Golden Gai, which makes it Golden Gai's skyscraper. The ground floor is standing only, the second floor has seating, and the third is a cozy loft. The whole building is maybe 3 meters wide. Chandeliers and antique décor create an atmosphere of faded European grandeur in impossibly small dimensions.
What to Expect
A three-story bar in a building narrower than most hallways. The European-antique décor in microscopic dimensions is charming.
European elegance in matchbox dimensions.
Background jazz and classical
Casual.
First-time Golden Gai visitors.
Cash only
Price Range
Drinks ¥800-1,200, cover ¥300-500
≈ €2–7 / $2–8
Hours
Daily from 6 PM to late
Insider Tip
One of Golden Gai's most foreigner-friendly bars. Start here if you're new to the area.
Address
1-1-7 Kabukicho, Golden Gai
Other Venues in Kabukicho
WARP SHINJUKU
Large multi-floor club in central Kabukicho with EDM and hip-hop floors. Popular with younger Japanese clubgoers. Cover 2,000-3,000 JPY with one drink included.
Robot Restaurant
Kabukicho's signature tourist attraction with neon-lit robot shows, dancers, and music. Not a traditional club but a theatrical experience. Tickets from 6,500 JPY.
Golden Gai
Block of over 200 tiny bars, each seating 5-10 people. Some welcome foreigners, others don't. Cover charges (500-1,500 JPY) are standard. Drinks from 700 JPY.
Samurai
Foreigner-friendly bar on the edge of Golden Gai with a relaxed owner who speaks English. Whisky selection and casual conversation. No cover charge.