Tradition is often forgotten, lost to the changing pace of modern life. Japanese history and culture are well protected, yet there are few places to witness the beauty that is traditional Japanese theater. Suigian, established in Nihonbashi Muromachi, is a performance space, high-end kaiseki restaurant and night-time bar all in one atmospheric, historic building. Visitors from all over the world gather to immerse themselves in evenings of Japanese culture, food and art at their finest. 

While one enjoys the delicacies of the “Fushikaiden” menu, a name based on Noh actor Zeami’s concept, the performances of Noh, Kyogen, Gei Nagon (Geisha performance) are not to be missed. As Suigian is particular about seasonality, all meals are prepared with the freshest seasonal ingredients. The dinner menu is full of rich flavors. Start with the mouthwatering grilled fish alongside a soup with a deep-flavored broth as part of the traditional dinner selection, and finish with a fine matcha green tea and delicate Japanese sweets.

In a new project, Suigian is announcing “Jyouhyaku,” which aims to revive the economy of Tokyo’s nightlife after it took a major hit due to Coronavirus restrictions. Fusing cutting-edge techno music with Japanese tradition, the new event will be held regularly thanks to the welcomed rapid return of inbound travel and the influx of overseas visitors eager to indulge in the most refined aspects of contemporary culture. In this way, Suigian can work with contemporary artists as a bridge to the past. 

Suigian’s bar and lounge areas are sumptuously designed with the style of Edo-period high-class restaurants in mind. Even the most minuscule details of the building are nods toward the preservation of culture. From the ceiling’s goldfish ornamentation to the delicate embroidery of the seating area, beauty and refinement are in Suigian’s aspiration of bringing Japanese traditions to the modern world. 

The original cocktails on offer, including “Furumai” and “Shojyo,” are inspired by Noh plays. The relaxed atmosphere makes a great space for large or small parties, family groups, or more intimate gatherings. Pair an evening of drinks with friends alongside the performances unfolding on the stage beside the bar and lounge area. 

Passing on Japanese history to the next generation is one of founder Hidetomo Kimura’s ambitions as a cultural visionary and designer. Kimura’s passion for the delights of the Edo period is echoed in the decoration of the performance stage painted by a Kano School artist in the Edo period where Kagura, Gagaku, Nihon-buyo and Ryukyu-buyo are performed daily.

Adding to the refinement of the venue, Suigian features a tea ceremony room where visitors can indulge in one of Japan’s most subtle art forms, the tea ceremony. Right from the moment you enter the building through a gallery of ukiyo-e woodblock prints, you know that a night spent at Suigian celebrates Japanese art and elegance. Boasting classical artwork alongside a delectable menu, an exceptionally concocted drinks selection and a calendar of theater performances, Suigian’s presence in the center of Nihonbashi provides tranquility in the hectic cityscape, and a chance to leave the troubles of modern life behind.

SUIGIAN
2−5−10 B1F Nihonbashimuromachi, Chuo-ku TEL 03-6262-0826
https://suigian.jp/en/
Tue–Sat 11:30am–3pm, 6pm–11pm Sunday and Holidays 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-9pm
Online or phone reservations must be made in advance.