Hitori: Tokyo's Exclusive Bar for Solo Drinkers

Tokyo, a city known for its compact spaces, often features bars and restaurants that accommodate no more than a handful of guests at a time.

However, Hitori, nestled in the stylish Shinjuku district, stands out from the area's many standing-room bars by attracting a distinct group of patrons.

The name 'Hitori' translates to 'individual,' hinting at the bar’s unique concept: it only permits solo visitors to enter.

On a recent Thursday evening in Tokyo, 10 guests—both men and women—lined up at the tiny bar, which sits on the seventh floor of an industrial building.

Hitori, which opened its doors in June 2018, has a cozy capacity of around 17 people at full occupancy.

Typically, Japanese culture discourages striking up conversations with strangers at bars. However, at Hitori, patrons can either savor their solitude or engage in casual conversations with fellow drinkers, something that's not always typical.

Although there are no official seating arrangements, guests naturally gravitate toward one side of the bar, with men on one side and women on the other.

A Welcoming Atmosphere

It's not just the affordable prices that draw in many female visitors—Hitori also has a relaxed and friendly vibe that keeps them coming back.

“Everyone who walks in here has a great attitude,” shared Rei, a bartender who preferred to use just her first name. Since Hitori doesn’t have a kitchen, Rei compensates by bringing in bags of candy and treats for the guests.

That evening, she distributed speculoos cookies, small chocolates, and bowls of sweet, pastel-colored popcorn to everyone.

The guests were enjoying lively conversations, sometimes using Google Translate to communicate.

While being solo is a strict rule for entry, age is not. The youngest guest, a 19-year-old, opted for soft drinks – the legal drinking age in Japan is 20 – and spent his time watching videos on his phone.

Whatever ‘hitori’ means to you, Hitori embraces it wholeheartedly.

Hitori, located at 46-7 Third Hirasawa Building, 7th Floor, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan +81 50-5216-6514