[Day Drinking in Ueno] 6 “Senbero Izakaya” Near Ameya-Yokocho for Daytime Drinks

Ameya-Yokocho, or “Ameyoko,” is a shopping street located between Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station.

Beneath the elevated train tracks in this area, numerous izakayas (Japanese pubs) are lined up.

This area still retains the nostalgic charm of the Showa era, and amidst its lively and bustling atmosphere, you can enjoy drinking alcohol from the daytime. However, some might find Ueno’s “senbero” (places where you can get tipsy for just 1,000 yen) intimidating at first glance.

But fear not—Ameyoko’s welcoming nature embraces everyone. With its influx of tourists, there’s no sense of exclusivity or rejection, so you can relax and dive in!

By reading this article, you’ll discover how to enjoy casual and fun daytime drinking in the chaos of Ameyoko. Start by learning about some recommended spots, and then conquer them one by one!

Note: All listed prices are accurate at the time of writing.

Standing Bar Takioka

Perfect for hardcore drinkers who want to start from the morning

“Takioka” is a standing bar located just outside JR Ueno Station’s main entrance.

This bar opens as early as 7:00. Its interior exudes the atmosphere of a nostalgic Showa-era drinking establishment.

Payments are made using a cash-on-delivery system (pay as you order). Drinks like sours and highballs start at 300 yen, and food options range from 160 yen, offering excellent cost performance.

A recommended dish is the spicy “Beef Stew.” The beef is slow-cooked until tender, making it the perfect snack for drinks.

Skewers are also reasonably priced, starting at 220 yen for two. The incredibly affordable menu is one of the highlights of this place.

Although the cash-on-delivery system means you’ll receive change with each order, it’s smart to bring plenty of small coins to make transactions smoother at this establishment.

Why not indulge in an affordable senbero experience starting from the morning?

Standing Bar Kadokura

Grab a drink with their crispy, juicy ham katsu

“Standing Bar Kadokura” opens at 10:00 AM and is located just a minute’s walk from JR Ueno Station.

Its signature dish is Ham Katsu, a popular menu item that was even featured on the TV show Tamori Club.

The interior has both standing and seated areas, but sitting requires an additional 200 yen fee.

Payments are made using a cash-on-delivery system, so having small coins ready will ensure smoother transactions.

Drinks like Hoppy (white or black) are 350 yen, and side dishes start at 150 yen, making everything super budget-friendly.

Kickstart your day with their popular Hoppy set and let the good vibes carry you through the day.

Kacchan

Cheap! Delicious! Outstanding Cost-Performance Among Senbero Izakayas

“Kacchan” is a set meal and standing bar located under the railway tracks, just a 2-minute walk from JR Ueno Station’s Shinobazu Exit.

The must-try here is their tempura, which is crispy, hot, and delicious.

Particularly recommended is their Senbero Set (1,200 yen as of March 2023), which includes up to four drinks and a chef’s choice tempura platter. This is one of the best value standing bars out there.

Payments here are also cash-on-delivery. For the Senbero Set, you’ll receive four dice in a masu (traditional wooden cup), and you use these dice to order drinks—a unique and fun system.

Personally, I highly recommend this place! The dice-rolling adds an element of amusement, and for drinkers, the fact that you can enjoy four highballs is a big plus.

Although the bar doesn’t open in the early morning, it starts at 11:00 AM, making it perfect for enjoying daytime drinks.

Yakitori Ueno Bunraku

If you want yakitori in Ameyoko, this is the place!

Located under the tracks, just a 2-minute walk from JR Ueno Station

This bar is known for its delicious yakitori made from high-quality, domestically sourced chicken (from 250 yen for two skewers).

This popular spot is always bustling with customers, with a particularly high number of male patrons. However, you’ll also spot groups of women visiting on weekends.

Drinks like sours and highballs start at 400 yen, which is slightly pricier than some of Ueno’s ultra-budget-friendly spots, but still reasonable by general standards.

If you’re craving yakitori in Ameyoko, you can’t go wrong with Ueno Bunraku!

Motsuyaki Otonba Ueno Store

Exceptional Motsuyaki! Smokers Welcome!

“Motsuyaki Otonba Ueno Store” is a beloved spot in Ueno where you can enjoy motsuyaki (grilled offal) starting at just 90 yen per skewer. Located a 3-minute walk from Ueno Station, it attracts a wide range of customers, from young couples to businesspeople.

While their signature motsuyaki is highly recommended, the “Plate of Filet Meat” is also flavorful and well-seasoned.

Additionally, their “Red Oden” is a must-try dish—one you simply can’t miss when visiting this spot.

One point to note is that this venue allows smoking, so it might not be ideal for those sensitive to smoke.

Hotei-chan Ueno Store

When in doubt, rely on Hotei-chan

“Hotei-chan” is a popular izakaya located under the tracks in Ueno. This well-known chain operates several Storees in the Ueno-Okachimachi area.

Seating options include indoor tables and terrace seats.

While you can sit and enjoy your drinks, standing customers receive a 10% discount on their bill, making it the better choice unless there’s a specific reason to sit.

Prices here are average for budget-friendly izakayas, and even if you choose to sit, it’s still affordable.

For those who enjoy bold flavors, I highly recommend their Beef Belly Sauce Yakisoba!

Compared to other nearby establishments, Hotei-chan has an inviting atmosphere, making it particularly recommended for women looking for an inexpensive, casual drinking spot.

Summary

That concludes our introduction to senbero spots around the Ameyoko area in Ueno. Did you find a place that piqued your interest?

From bars with terrace seating to casual spots perfect for solo visitors, there are plenty of options to explore.

These venues are highly recommended for drink lovers, so take your time and enjoy to your heart’s content!