Gold Bar Cocktail Festival 2025 at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
A Luxurious Night of Cocktails in Tokyo
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On February 23, 2025, the GOLD BAR COCKTAIL FESTIVAL at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon once again lit up the city skyline! This annual celebration for cocktail enthusiasts brought together six of Japan’s top bartenders and 12 uniquely crafted cocktails; all enjoyed in an all-you-can-drink format.
This year, the festival introduced the Gold Bar Cocktail Station for the first time, further elevating the immersive experience. Whether you’re a luxury traveler seeking indulgence or a cocktail connoisseur savoring world-class mixology, this festival was the ultimate gathering for spirits enthusiasts.
The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
Opened in 2020, The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese elegance with modern design.
The hotel features 206 minimalist wood-toned rooms, some offering breathtaking views of Tokyo Tower and the city skyline. Home to convivial dining, a tranquil spa, and the renowned Gold Bar at EDITION—included among Asia’s 50 Best Bars expanded list for two consecutive years—the hotel is a sophisticated retreat for discerning travelers. Its prime location allows easy access to Roppongi, Ginza, and Tokyo’s cultural and shopping hubs.
Check out more about The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon, in the following article.
<<The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon: Luxury Redefined in the Heart of Tokyo>>
The Gold Bar at EDITION
Stepping into The Gold Bar at EDITION feels like entering a private New York speakeasy from the Prohibition era. The space exudes both vintage charm and modern sophistication. The bar has received global recognition, ranking within top 3 for Best Cocktail Menu Award in the world for “The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023”. Every cocktail is a true work of art from classic martinis to innovative Japanese-inspired creations.
Gourmet small plates enhance the experience, which perfectly complement the multi-layered flavors of the drinks, creating a symphony of taste and texture.
GOLD BAR COCKTAIL FESTIVAL 2025
Following its highly acclaimed debut last year, the festival’s second edition returned on a grander scale. On February 23, 2025, six top bartenders crafted 12 exclusive cocktails using Japanese spirits and tequila as the base.
Attendees enjoyed unlimited drinks while moving between the main bar and the newly introduced Cocktail Station, experiencing a range of mixology styles. From Kyoto-inspired coffee cocktails to Hiroshima’s regional flavors, every sip showcased the bartenders’ exceptional creativity.
Featured Bartenders & Signature Cocktails
First Session (14:00 – 15:40)
SATOMI MIZUGISHI
Starting her bartending career in Japan and earning accolades in numerous cocktail competitions, she went on to join Jigger & Pony Group—ranked first in Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Renowned for her inventive use of house-made herbal infusions and rich, layered flavors, Mizugishi continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts with her creative approach.
- CRAFT ALASKA
Bear’s Book, Home Made Japanese Chartreuse, Kuromoji - CITRUS CREAM FIZZ
Tumugi, Perrier, Sudachi, Mango, Shiokoji, Lime Clarified Cream & Milk
SHOWGO NAKASHIMA
A one-of-a-kind bartender known for his unique perspective, he owns Full Brix in Yokohama and is celebrated for his imaginative use of local ingredients. He also appears at guest bartending events in Japan and abroad, captivating audiences with his innovative cocktail expressions.
- NEVER SLEEP MARTINI
Bear’s Book, Sake Junmaishu, Full Vermouth Mix - NEVER BLUBBERED BOULEVARDIER
Chita, Salted Dry Vermouth, Fig Leaf Syrup, Whey
IPPEI NISHIO
Owner of Direct Coffee in Kyoto, Nishio has served as a judge in both coffee and cocktail competitions, establishing himself as a pioneer of coffee cocktails in Japan. Known for his signature smoky edge, he continues to push the boundaries of mixology by skillfully blending coffee and spirits.
- CHITA BOY’S HIGHBALL
Chita, Pilsner Syrup, Carbonated Cold Brew Coffee - DISTANCE TO LOVE
Bear’s Book, Colombia Chocolate, Frangelico, PX Sherry
Second Session (16:00 – 17:40)
MASATO ISHIOKA
Formerly a pastry chef and chocolatier at Bulgari, Ishioka transitioned into bartending with a keen sense of balance and originality. He infuses his cocktails with dessert-inspired elements, producing sweet yet refined flavor profiles. His innovative approach earned him the title of DIAGEO WORLD CLASS 2024 Japan Champion.
- DRY BREEZE
Don Julio Blanco, Grapefruit, Perrier, Salt - SUBTROPICAL
Pineapple Switched Tumugi, Banana Liquor, Coriander
YUICHI WAKABAYASHI
Owner of Bar Wakabayashi in Tokyo’s Kamata district, Wakabayashi specializes in agave-based spirits such as tequila and mezcal. Having served as an ambassador for multiple mezcal brands, he continues experimenting with creative, smoky twists that showcase the distinct appeal of agave in his cocktails.
- EXPERIENCE MARTINI
Tumugi, Dry Vermouth, Sherry, Rhubarb, Flower Essence - SANZEN RIKYU
Shiro, Ginrei Shochu, Genmai Tea, Vermouth, Gentiana, Yellow Campari
OSAMU KOJIMA
After honing his craft in hotel bars, Kojima opened Bar Alegre in Hiroshima, where he has bartended for over 26 years. Renowned for his delicate balance of whisky and citrus notes, he continues to captivate local and international guests with his exceptional skills and reflections of Hiroshima’s distinct culture.
- NATURE THERAPY
Tumugi, Keraji, Elderflower, Eucalyptus Citriodora - PILLOW TALK
Chita, PX Sherry, Banana, Black Cardamon, Lapsang Souchong, Frankincense
Gold Bar at EDITION was alive with energy on the night of the festival as cocktail lovers gathered to celebrate. The clinking of glasses, the captivating aroma of premium spirits, and a carefully curated DJ set created the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable afternoon. Each cocktail was a masterpiece, from its layered complexity in the first sip to the delicate aftertaste that lingered—making it nearly impossible to leave. More than just a tasting event, this festival was an extravaganza dedicated to the artistry of cocktails.
It was not merely a sensory journey—it was a cross-disciplinary artistic dialogue. When Kengo Kuma’s architectural brilliance met the fluid creativity of top mixologists, Tokyo’s nightlife gained a new, mesmerizing chapter.
For more information about exciting places to visit in Tokyo, be sure to check out the following articles!
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