Ryumin

Ryumin (BAR LIUMIN) sits on the corner of Akarui Hanazono 8th Street in Shinjuku's Golden Gai, at 1-1-5 Kabukicho. According to Foursquare, it operates daily from 18:00 to 5:00 AM. The interior is defined by a single long counter bathed in atmospheric red lighting, where guests enjoy a varied drink menu spanning bourbon, gin, and a carefully crafted coffee shochu—reportedly using different coffee beans depending on whether it's served with water or milk. The exterior is adorned with illustrations evoking the underground manga magazine 'Garo,' and the clientele ranges from self-defense force members to film actors, all drinking side by side. Current owner Susumu Matsumoto (known affectionately as 'Su-san') came to Ryumin after a stint as an advertising copywriter, began working at the bar, and took over as owner at age 29. True to his own words—wanting the bar to be 'a place where people can drop in on a bad day'—Ryumin welcomes regulars and first-timers alike with genuine warmth. For the latest updates, follow the bar on Instagram (@liumin_8st) and X (@liumin_G).