Tucked along Maneki-dori in Shinjuku's Golden Gai, CREMASTER is a cozy counter bar distinguished by its Moroccan-inspired interior. Its greatest draw is a rotating staff system, where talented individuals—nail artists, illustrators, girl band members, and more—each take charge on their assigned day of the week, giving the bar a different personality depending on when you visit. The first floor seats around six guests at the counter, while the second floor serves as a space for groups. A small fish tank near the entrance marks the spot, and the bar opens early by Golden Gai standards at 6 PM. Welcoming everyone from Golden Gai first-timers and seasoned regulars to international travelers, CREMASTER fosters the kind of easy, warm conversation that only a well-worn counter bar can provide.
* Bars located in the same alley row.
Shinjuku Golden Gai is Tokyo's most iconic bar district — 295+ unique bars packed into six narrow alleys in Kabukicho, Shinjuku. A 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit, next to Hanazono Shrine. Featured in the Michelin Green Guide, it has been a cultural institution since the 1950s.
Read the history of Golden Gai