Watering Hole

Watering Hole opened in 2012 near Yoyogi Park, making it one of the earliest dedicated craft beer bars in Tokyo and a landmark in the city's now-thriving scene. It was founded by Ichiri Fujiura — notably the first non-American ever named Homebrewer of the Year by the American Homebrewers Association — and his partner Michiko Tsutsui. The bar sits on Meiji Street, about a five-minute walk from JR Yoyogi Station's east exit, behind the NTT Docomo building. The interior is relaxed and spacious by Tokyo bar standards, with around ten bar seats and several tables. A small segregated smoking booth is tucked inside. On tap you'll typically find around 20 handles at any one time, split roughly evenly between Japanese craft and international imports — IPAs, pale ales, stouts, sours, and ciders all feature regularly. The selection rotates constantly and is hand-chalked above the bar. Staff are knowledgeable and some speak English, making it welcoming for visitors. One of Watering Hole's most loved features is the weekday beer flight: from 3pm to 6pm, any four 100ml pours for ¥1,000 — an ideal way to survey the range before committing to a pint. Pints are priced at roughly ¥1,300–¥1,900 depending on the beer. The food menu runs to solid pub fare — gyoza, fish and chips, buttermilk fried chicken, mac and cheese, and rotating specials. Ingredients are locally sourced where possible. Menus are available in both Japanese and English. **Opening Hours** Mon–Sat: 3pm–11:30pm (last food order 10:30pm, last drink 11pm) Closed Sundays