Big Cities after Dark: Your Guide to Tokyo and NYC at Night

You can tell a lot about a cities after dark. As the sun sets, the secret treasures come out and the real adventure begins. New York City and Tokyo after dark is something special. You get to explore a city in its full glory; bright lights, buzzing streets and strangers that feel like friends. Here’s our guide to New York City and Tokyo after dark!

If you’ve never explored New York after dark, have you actually truly experienced the best of this city? New York City comes alive at night and it is an experience you can’t miss. 

From buzzing bars to broadway shows, New York won’t leave you feeling bored or out of sorts. This city is truly unique and special as the sun sets and the city lights start to shine. Here are our top 5 after dark experiences in New York City that you can’t miss:

New York nightlife is some of the best in the world. If you want to experience all the amazing places that this city has on offer then we suggest you head on one of the many New York City Nightlife Tour  that city has. Discover local hangs including the best rooftop bars and dance clubs. If you’re looking for unique experiences, then relive the Prohibition Era of New York City through a Speakeasy Bar and History Tour, where travellers will experience what it's like to drink liquor during the 1920s New York. 

It might seem a little cliche’ or mainstream, but we promise you won’t regret heading up to one of the cities more iconic views at night. The Empire State building is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and provides the iconic 360 panoramic view of the entire city. At night it is particularly special, as you get a birds eye view of the magic. The last elevator ascends to the top of the Empire State at 1:15am, and even then the night is still young to head out the bars after you take in the breathtaking view. 

New York City is home to some of the most iconic and historic jazz bars (you won’t want to miss these), which saw some of the most legendary Jazz artists play, includes Miles Davis and Duke Ellington. There are so many to check out, so be sure to head on a tour such as the Harlem Jammin Jazz evening tour to be sure to catch a wide range of them.  This particular tour provides takes you to Harlem's historic churches, exceptional landmarks, and one of the coolest jazz spots in town. So if you're starving for some history, food, and jazz, this is definitely a tour you will never forget.

You can’t go to New York and not catch a show - it’s practically a crime! Be sure to make the evening one to remember and book yourself into a nice meal at one of New York’s famous Broadway restaurants such as Ellen’s Stardust Diner (a dinner and show!), Natsumi or even Briciola (you just can’t go wrong in NYC)  and then book a ticket to one of the many shows on Broadway.

This is one of New York’s newest attractions and perfect if you’re looking for a different kind of fun and to test your skills and intelligence in the world of espionage. While this museum is open during the day, an evening tour of this gem is always a fun option as it adds to the mystery. Every friday the museum also hosts a Missions and Martinis event which is perfect for anyone looking for music, mystery and merriment! Tickets to these events are separate to general admission.

Tokyo is one of the best cities to party in the world to experience top-notch nightlife. It is diverse, lively and one you need to experience. 

Whether you’re looking to hit up the most famous nightlife district, Shinjuku or new and energetic areas such as Shibuya, there’s no doubt you’re going to have the best night of your life. Here’s our top 5 experiences you can’t miss after dark in Tokyo:

Tokyo is known for its food and drink culture, and this comes alive particularly after dark. We suggest heading one of the many incredible evening tours to explore the best the city has on offer. Whether you’re wanting to hit one of the many Sake bars or experience the best street food, there are a wealth of experience waiting for you including the Nighttime Local Food and Drink Tour in Asakusa, Tokyo after 5 Food Tour or the Sake Brewery Tour and Tasting tour.

There’s no denying that the local’s in Tokyo know how to party. This city has one of the most electrifying nightclub scenes that cater to whichever vibe travellers are looking for (from techno to hip-hop, Tokyo has it all). To ensure you get the most out of this city, we suggest purchasing a which provides you access to some of the best clubs in town. This pass provides you with free entrance to 10 electrifying clubs around the area. While most clubs and bars charge an average entrance fee of JPY2500-3500, your unlimited pass gives you access to multiple establishments for almost a tenth of the total price. 

If one evening you’re not looking to have a big night, never fear, there is more to Tokyo than just the drinking and party life. For a more chilled-out itinerary, we recommend viewing the sights of Tokyo from above with a helicopter ride. You’ll fly over the city’s business district, Minato Mirai, and watch the buildings glow from above. Some of the famous attractions of the area include the Landmark Tower, Marine Tower, and even the entire Tokyo Bay.

Immerse yourself in Tokyo's pop culture and enjoy a concert from one of Japan's best J-Pop artists, including Akihabara’s famous idol group Kamen Joshi. Throughout this concert you will experience an electrifying live performance from Japan's first female indie idol group to top the Oricon charts.

If a food and entertainment is what you're looking for, then be sure to book in to one of Tokyo's many themed cafe's including the Shinjuku Robot Restaurant  where you will enjoy an evening of upbeat J-pop music, technicolor lights, and amazing performances

To know a city intimately, is to know what it is like when you walk the streets after dark. A walking tour is the best way to get to know Tokyo. Discover many streets of this city, and explore the buzzing shops, restaurants, and entertainment hubs. Recommended walking tours include the walking tour through Shinjuku or the Coredo Muromachi shopping complex in Nihonbashi.