Poor Cow

Setagaya, Tokyo

Located in Shimokitazawa, Poor Cow is a vibrant rock 'n' roll bar run by members of legendary punk bands. Lined with massive shelves of records and CDs, it serves as a gathering spot for local musicians and music fans to share great tunes and drinks.

✓ ConfirmedSource: the bar's official social mediaLast checked: 2026-09-27How we check Report a mistake or closure

About Setagaya

Setagaya is a large residential ward in southwest Tokyo. Its best-known area for nightlife is Shimokitazawa, a neighborhood of small live houses, theaters, vintage clothing shops and bars, reached from Shibuya on the Keio Inokashira Line or from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Line. Sangenjaya, a short ride from Shibuya on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, is another area packed with small bars.

Good to know

Smoking, payment and English for this bar haven't been confirmed yet. Ask when you arrive, or read our tips for first-timers.

First Time at a Japanese Bar: FAQ & Manners →

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Editor's pick in Tokyo: worth the train ride

★ Editor's Top Pick

Rockbar Painkiller

Kokubunji, Tokyo

Near Kokubunji Station, Rockbar Painkiller is a hard rock and heavy metal bar named, of course, after the Judas Priest classic. The owner left a long company career in 2016 to open a long-dreamed-of rock bar, has been to Wacken Open Air, the world's biggest metal festival, six years in a row, and still fronts a band with high-pitched screams and a Flying V. The owner's taste leans melodic: Michael Schenker, UFO, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Helloween, Sonata Arctica, Hammerfall and Avantasia are favorites. Rare music videos play on a 100-inch screen, and the bar hosts live shows and jam sessions. Drinks include beer, bourbon, whisky and shochu, with light bar snacks rather than full meals. Smoking is allowed inside on regular nights; on event nights, smokers step outside. Some English is understood, but a translation app on your phone is often the quickest way to chat.

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