Beer Hall Lion Ginza nanachome ten (ビヤホールライオン 銀座七丁目店) is not just a bar; it's a living museum and a registered tangible cultural property. Opened in 1934, it stands as Japan's oldest beer hall, transporting guests to the early Showa era with its soaring ceilings, vintage fittings, and a spectacular glass-mosaic mural that forms the centerpiece of the grand room.
The main draw is, of course, the beer. The hall is known for its traditional "one-shot pour" technique, which creates an exceptionally creamy and stable foam head on a wide range of Sapporo and Edel-style drafts. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and coldness of the beer, with Sapporo Black Label and Edel Pils being perennial favorites. This is paired with a menu of classic beer-hall food. Guests love the sausage platters, currywurst, fish and chips, and especially the roast beef, which is carved at set times. While the food is generally considered satisfying and a good match for the beer, it's not the main culinary draw; some find certain dishes competent rather than exceptional.
Expect a lively, loud, and convivial atmosphere, especially during peak evening hours when queues often form at the door. The value here is excellent if your priority is the historic ambiance and top-quality draft beer in the heart of Ginza. A typical meal costs between ¥3,000 and ¥3,999. Reviewers recently paid around ¥970 for a medium Sapporo Black Label (¥1,200 for a large), ¥2,250 for the roast beef, and ¥1,030 for a sausage plate.
- Booking: The main hall operates on a walk-in basis and does not take reservations. Queues are common at peak hours, but turnover is generally quick.
- Getting There: The hall is on the ground floor of the Ginza Lion Building, a 3-minute walk from Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line) or a 7-minute walk from JR Yurakucho or JR Shinbashi stations.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners), most transportation IC cards (like Suica), and various QR code payment systems are accepted.
- Special Dishes: The roast beef is served at set times and often sells out. It's best to ask staff about timing and pre-order if possible.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Smoking: The main hall is non-smoking, but a separate smoking room is available near the entrance.
- Allergies: One reviewer noted poor handling of allergies. If you have dietary restrictions, it is crucial to be very clear and confirm with staff before ordering.





