Bar High Five

Nestled in the basement of the Efflore Ginza 5 building, Bar High Five offers intimate seating—just 12 at the timber bar and a few tables. Behind the counter, legendary bartender Hidetsugu Ueno meticulously hand‑shakes your cocktail over hand‑carved ice, elevating classics like the White Lady and Japan‑exclusive Full Bloom. The ambiance is quiet, warm, and refined, a sophisticated refuge in bustling Ginza. Since its opening in 2008, High Five has been a top‑tier name on Asia’s and the World’s 50 Best Bars lists—No.18 globally in 2019, No.45 in Asia in 2023. Despite attracting international fans, it maintains a discreet, “no reservations” policy—you can hold a seat with a quick call before arrival. Signature drinks include the crisp Ceremony (green‑tea whisky fusion), floral Full Bloom (gin or whisky with sakura & maraschino), and the elegant highball over sculpted ice. Expect a bespoke experience—bartenders converse, assess your preferences, and craft a personalized concoction. With cocktails averaging around $16 USD (¥6,000‑¥8,000 JPY), the bar leans upscale (“$$$$$” Foursquare price guide). It opens Mon–Sat, 17:00–01:00 (last entry 23:30), and is non‑smoking since April 2020. Though small, the wooden-paneled space and velvet banquette offers a cozy comfort, making every visit uniquely personal and memorable.