From Highbury to Shinjuku: Celebrating Arsenal in Japan

Arsenal F.C. are Premier League champions again, securing the 2025/26 title under Mikel Arteta and bringing the trophy back to North London for the first time in more than two decades. The club’s success has been celebrated far beyond the UK — including in Japan, where Arsenal have built a loyal following over the years.

For Arsenal supporters in Japan, there are several pubs, bars, and eateries inspired by the club or popular among local Gooners. Across Tokyo and Kanagawa, these spots help keep North London spirit alive year-round, whether you are raising a pint with fellow fans or simply enjoying the atmosphere after a historic season.

Highbury -The Home of Beer-

Located near Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Station, HIGHBURY -THE HOME OF BEER- opened in September 2016 under owner Kohei Ando, a brewer who trained in the UK and worked extensively in the craft beer industry before opening his own pub. Inspired by Arsenal’s historic Highbury stadium, the venue combines British pub culture with a strong focus on carefully curated craft beer and cask ale. Arsenal memorabilia decorates the interior, helping create a relaxed football atmosphere without feeling like a dedicated sports bar. It has become a well-known gathering spot for Gooners and craft beer fans alike in Tokyo.

Highbury — The Cave of Beer

Opened in Yokohama’s Sakuragicho area in June 2024, HIGHBURY-THE CAVE OF BEER- is effectively a sister venue to the Shinjuku-based HIGHBURY pub. The bar places even greater emphasis on beer storage and serving conditions, including a temperature-controlled “Beer Cave” used to carefully mature cask ales and imported beers. While the Arsenal connection remains through the Highbury name and ownership, the venue is more focused on beer craftsmanship and British-style pub culture than football itself. Its cozy atmosphere and strong beer lineup have quickly made it a notable addition to Yokohama’s craft beer scene.

Noodles Kitchen GUNNERS

Located in Shinmaruko, Kawasaki, Noodles Kitchen GUNNERS is one of Japan’s most unusual Arsenal-inspired eateries. The ramen shop blends local noodle culture with unmistakable North London influence, featuring Arsenal colors, scarves, and club references throughout the restaurant. While it is first and foremost a popular neighborhood ramen shop, its football-inspired branding has made it a destination for Arsenal supporters visiting the Tokyo and Kanagawa area. The combination of hearty ramen and football culture gives the venue a uniquely Japanese take on international fandom, reflecting how deeply the club’s identity resonates far beyond the UK.

Looking to actually watch football? With excitement already building toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there are several long-running British-style pubs and sports bars in Tokyo that regularly attract Premier League supporters from across the city. In Ebisu, THE FooTNiK Ebisu has built a reputation as one of Tokyo’s best-known football pubs, with multiple screens, imported beer, and a strong international crowd on matchdays. Over in Roppongi, Hobgoblin Roppongi British Pub is another popular option for late-night Premier League viewing, offering a classic British pub atmosphere in the heart of the city. 

Shibuya’s What the Dickens! is also worth mentioning. While known primarily as a live music pub, it has long attracted football fans and expats looking for a lively British-style atmosphere. Meanwhile, venues such as HUB Shibuya and other HUB branches across Tokyo are often packed during major international football matches, particularly when Premier League clubs are involved.

As screening schedules can vary depending on kick-off times and licensing, it is best to check each venue’s social media pages or contact the businesses directly in advance to confirm upcoming match broadcasts.