Ginza Music Bar

The bar is on the fourth floor of a building behind the Shiseido Building in Ginza 7 chome. It is easy to miss the first time. The entrance is discreet, and that suits the place.

It opened in 2014 through a collaboration between music producer Shinichi Osawa and Nobuhiro Toriba of Toriba Coffee. Those two backgrounds still define the room today. Music is not decoration here. It is the center of the experience.

Inside, deep blue walls, warm wood, and low lighting create a room that feels intimate without becoming formal. The counter runs in a zigzag shape rather than a straight line, so guests naturally sit at slight angles to one another. It is a small design choice, but it makes conversation easier and gives the room a more social energy.

The record collection runs into the thousands, covering jazz, classic rock, soul, disco, and electronic music. It feels like a real library built over time, not a themed display.

Playback is serious. Garrard turntables, an Allen and Heath mixer, McIntosh amplification, and Tannoy Westminster speakers give the music real depth and presence. The volume has impact, but never at the expense of conversation. You can still speak normally across the counter.

Music is selected by staff who know the collection well, and some nights feature guest DJs playing vinyl only sets. The direction changes depending on the evening, which is part of the appeal.

Drinks are equally considered. Classic cocktails are made cleanly, while signatures include an espresso martini and highballs that reflect the owners’ coffee background. Most cocktails are around ¥2,000.

There is no cover charge, which makes the bar easy to use in different ways: one drink before dinner, a final stop after eating, or several hours spent with good music and a proper cocktail.

Weekends fill quickly, especially later in the evening. The staff are comfortable in English and used to international guests.

Reservations are recommended. TableEX can arrange your booking directly and help secure the best available seating for your visit.

Essential Booking Rules & Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really necessary to book a table for a bar?
Yes, if you want to be certain of entry. While walk-ins are welcome, Ginza Music Bar is a favorite local haunt. Given its intimate size and specialized equipment, it can fill up quickly. To experience the legendary sound system without the risk of being turned away, a reservation is the safest bet.

What kind of music can I expect to hear?
The beauty of this bar is its sonic diversity. The library spans Rock, Jazz, R&B, Electronic, Disco, and Hip-Hop. There is no fixed playlist; instead, a skilled DJ selects vinyl records in real-time based on the crowd's energy and the room's atmosphere. Every visit offers a unique, unrepeatable soundtrack.

I don't drink alcohol. Is there anything for me?
Absolutely. The bar is famous for its sophisticated Mocktails. We highly recommend the "Oriental Spice," a complex and refreshing non-alcoholic creation. For cocktail lovers, the "Coffee Bean Gin Negroni"—which utilizes premium beans from Toriba Coffee—is a signature masterpiece that perfectly bridges the gap between the bar and the café culture.

Is the staff English-friendly?
Yes. One of the reasons this bar is so popular with international travelers is that the staff are proficient in English. You can easily discuss your drink preferences or even ask about the specific vinyl records being played without any language barrier.

Is there a dress code or cover charge?
Remarkably for Ginza, there is no cover charge, making it an exceptionally accessible spot. The dress code is smart casual. While you don't need a suit, the atmosphere is sophisticated, so we recommend avoiding overly casual beachwear or gym attire.

How do I request a booking through TableEX?
When submitting your request, please provide a range of arrival times (e.g., "Between 20:00 and 21:30"). Providing flexibility helps us secure your table more effectively, especially during peak hours when the bar's "zigzag" counter is at its most vibrant.