Tokyo's Top Nightlife Districts - the best places to blow your cash

Lit up by hundreds of neon lights, this central district is almost always densely packed, so it's no surprise that this district is awake well into the morning. Shibuya has countless of eateries, both affordable and pricey, clubs, bars and arcades that cater to the city's night owls. Whilst especially popular with the young locals, the district is generally full of expats as well, and easily accessible to foreign travellers. The districts is also well known for its big dance parties, which attract leading local and international DJs, so if you love dancing, this is the place to catch all the best DJs. Aside from that, there are numerous smaller places worth seeing including Nonbei Yokocho, an old, but still crowded area known for its clustered streets, packed with small bars and eateries.

Not far from Shibuya, is a rather infamous district known for it's frenetic energy that runs right through the night. The nightlife in Shinjuku districts, covers the more risque side of entertainment. Along with the rowdy beer bars and clubs, is the red-light entertainment and the notorious robot restaurant, as well as the city's small gay district. The most prominent red-light district in Tokyo, the Kabukicho section of the district makes an interesting place to explore. Despite its shady reputation, there are several great bars and restaurants located here.

Packed with all sorts of bars, and clubs, Roppongi is one of the most famous nightlife districts in Tokyo. The area was a favourite hang-out for allied forces during the post-war era, and continues to be popular with foreigners since then. Due in part to the large expat crowd here, entry aprices are relatively higher in Roppongi, compared to other areas. You'll find a good combination of upscale bars, nightclubs, jazz clubs, and numerous dive bars, along with a few shadier venues along the streets. While it is generally safe to visit, so note is can get rowdier at night, and you will be approached by more than a few touts.

An upscale business district, Ginza is best known for its large concentration of luxury boutiques and high-fashion mega malls. However, come nightfall, the district transforms into the city's premium entertainment centre, with hundreds of decadent restaurants, sushi bars, and deluxe nightclubs. If you're staying at a hotel or one of the serviced apartments in Ginza Tokyo, which is within walking distance of several leading, establishments, like Somerset Ginza East Tokyo, then you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to nightlife. Much of the nightlight is discreetly tucked away on the upper floors of plain buildings, and you can expect to receive hefty bills at most of them. If you're looking for something more affordable, Ginza has a handful of cocktail bars that are a little less expensive.

A laid-back bohemian neighborhood frequented by Tokyo's hipster crowds, Shimokitazawa offers up indie entertainment options and plenty of unique eateries. The district is packed with reasonably priced bars and music venues, many of which are hidden away down narrow streets that may take some investigating to find. It's a great place to spend a casual evening out, with affordable dining options, and surrounded by the city's alternative crowds.