The area around Taipei Main Station, including Zhongshan and Ximen, is known for having a large number of hotels. Many of these are Japanese-owned or affiliated, making it a popular accommodation choice for Japanese travelers.
When going out for drinks in the evening, many people prefer not to stray too far from their hotel. Perhaps for this reason, the area has become home to many Japanese-style bars. These are safe and comfortable spaces especially for Japanese visitors, so if you’re staying in Zhongshan or Ximen, be sure to check them out.
Additionally, this guide also introduces some local-style bars around Taipei Station, perfect for those who want to experience the city's authentic nightlife atmosphere.
1. Hotel Okura’s The Pearl Lounge & Bar
Hotel Okura, renowned in Japan as a top luxury hotel, also has a location in Taipei. Facing a major street in the Zhongshan area, The Pearl Lounge & Bar at Hotel Okura offers a familiar Japanese ambiance where travelers can unwind. You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy the space, making it a reliable go-to bar for anyone staying in Zhongshan.
With the refined elegance typical of Okura, this bar is best enjoyed from the comfort of a sofa seat rather than the counter, even for solo visitors. The drink selection ranges from fresh juices and cocktails to whiskeys. They also serve the hotel’s signature French toast, familiar to those who know Okura in Japan!
Name: The Pearl
Address: No. 9, Section 1, Nanjing East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Website: https://www.okura-nikko.com/ja/taiwan/taipei/the-okura-prestige-taipei/dining/
2. Japanese-Speaking bochi bochi bar
Near Zhongshan Station, Linsen Road is like a Japanese-style nightlife street. Many establishments here speak Japanese, and some even make you feel as if you’re back in Japan. It may feel surreal, but it gives visitors peace of mind.
Among them is bochi bochi bar, with its name and signage written in Japanese. Unlike many snack bars in the area that feature hostesses, this is a genuine bar for relaxing.
They offer dozens of spirits, including Japanese shochu, Scotch, and Taiwanese whisky. The female owner, fluent in Japanese, runs the bar and can share insights about Taipei only a local would know—perfect to enjoy over a drink.
Name: bochi bochi bar
Address: No. 5-2, Lane 83, Section 1, Zhongshan N Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BochiBochi-Bar
3. Japanese BAR 7th – With Cats!
Located in Zhongshan, Japanese BAR 7th is a bar run by Japanese staff. They offer a great selection of Japanese whisky, wine, and beautifully crafted cocktails by a Japanese bartender. Their selection of Scotch whisky is also noteworthy.
That said, the bar isn’t only for Japanese customers. Their concept is to introduce Japanese-style bars and drinks to Taiwanese locals, creating a unique blend of both cultures. With the growing interest in Japanese cuisine and drinks in Taiwan, it attracts both locals and Japanese patrons, creating a cozy and curious atmosphere. Oh—and there are two cats in the bar as well!
Name: Japanese BAR 7th
Address: No. 47, Lane 119, Linsen N Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Japanese7thBar
4. Not Just for Japanese: The Daft House
While Zhongshan and Ximen are near each other, they have different vibes. Zhongshan tends to attract more mature Japanese tourists, while Ximen is popular with local youth. One standout bar in Ximen is The Daft House.
With raw concrete walls, dismantled bikes as decor, and liquor bottles turned into lamps, this bar blends a rugged yet stylish aesthetic. While their whiskey selection is modest, the lively bartenders serve up original cocktails. Given its location in a tourist-heavy area, the staff are welcoming to foreigners. It’s a great place to casually drop in.
Name: The Daft House
Address: No. 62, Section 1, Zhongshan N Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Daft-House-%E5%82%BB%E7%93%9C%E5%B1%8B-828021123881580/
5. Conveniently Located Near Taipei Station: JIN SUI SAN MAI (金色三麥)
Taipei Station is not only a major train hub but also connects to a bus terminal, making it a common transit stop. If you're waiting between connections or just want a quick drink, Jin Sui San Mai is a very convenient choice. It’s located inside Q Square Mall, right near the station—easy to access at any time.
Their specialty is beer, brewed in-house. You’ll find staples like pilsners and dark beer, as well as craft beer trends from Japan. They also offer tasting sets, perfect for exploring different flavors.
Name: Jin Sui San Mai
Address: No. 1, Section 1, Chengde Road, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103
Website: https://www.qsquare.com.tw/
◎ Summary
What did you think? While the Taipei Station area (Zhongshan & Ximen) might not always be a prime tourist spot, it’s filled with unique and inviting bars—especially those catering to Japanese travelers or inspired by Japanese bar culture.
Whether you’re staying nearby or just passing through, don’t miss out on this area's distinctive bar scene. Pop into one and enjoy the laid-back yet vibrant nightlife atmosphere it has to offer!