Founded in 1880 (Meiji 13)
Japan’s first bar loved by literary masters, famous for its signature Denki Bran.
Founded in 1880 (Meiji 13), this is the oldest bar in Japan. The retro building with a Taisho-era atmosphere was built in 1921 and is designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. On the first floor “Kamiya Bar,” you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks, including the signature cocktail Denki Bran, invented by founder Fusuemon Kamiya and featured in Osamu Dazai’s No Longer Human.
On the second floor, “Restaurant Kamiya” offers a menu centered on Western cuisine. “Kamiya Bar” is ideal for enjoying a drink alone, while “Restaurant Kamiya” is great for dining with family, depending on the scene. “Kamiya Bar Shop,” which faces Kaminarimon Street, sells original products such as Denki Bran and Kamiya Wine—perfect for souvenirs for sightseeing in Asakusa.
History
The story began in 1880 (Meiji 13) when the first owner, Fusuemon Kamiya, opened “Mikahaya Liquor Shop” in Asakusa and began selling alcohol by the glass. Kamiya produced various blended Western liquors including the still-popular Denki Bran, and became known as the “Wine King of Japan.” The shop was renamed “Kamiya Bar” in 1912 (Meiji 45), and has been serving Western food since 1960 (Showa 35).
This Notable Item
cocktail of brandy, gin, wine, curacao and herbs
300 yen
A cocktail that represents Asakusa. In the Meiji era, when electricity was still rare, new things were often called “Electric ○○,” and “Bran” from brandy was added to form the name. It features a faint sweetness from a blend of gin, wine, curaçao, and herbs. Alcohol content: 30%.
Nikomi (stewed dish)
600 yen
The No.1 most popular dish at Kamiya Bar. Offal simmered for about 3 hours with premium kombu broth and seasoned with Shinshu miso and soy sauce. It pairs perfectly with Denki Bran.
Crab croquette
900 yen
A crab croquette made with plenty of snow crab meat and extract, known for its refined sweetness, finished with creamy white sauce. Available both at the first-floor Kamiya Bar and the second-floor Restaurant Kamiya.
Spot Overview
2 minutes from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, and Tobu Line.
10 minutes from Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station.
| Address: | Kamiya Building, 1-1-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo. |
|---|---|
| Phone: | 03-5689-0462 |
| Hours: | 11:00–21:00 (Last order 20:30) |
| Closed: | 1st Monday and Tuesday of each month |
| External Link: | Official Website |
| Seating: | Kamiya Bar – New Building 86 seats / Main Building 60 seats; Restaurant Kamiya – New Building 70 seats / Main Building 56 seats. |
