Conrad Tokyo to Host Guest Bartender Event 'Cocktail Journey' on Wednesday, July 8

Shinya Koba (Koba Shinya), owner-bartender of 'Yakouboku,' and the 'Phoenix Martini' presented at the world's largest bartender competition (image)

Conrad Tokyo (Minato City, Tokyo; General Manager Neil Mackinnis) will host a one-night-only bartender event on Wednesday, July 8, at its bar and lounge 'TwentyEight,' welcoming Shinya Koba (Koba Shinya), owner of 'Yakouboku (Yakouboku),' a bar highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally.

Koba, owner-bartender of 'Yakouboku,' has gained remarkable recognition in recent years, including being selected for the international bar ranking 'Asia's 50 Best Bars' and winning the Japanese national final of 'Diageo World Class,' the world's largest bartender competition. Based in his hometown of Kumamoto Prefecture, Koba has drawn attention for his concept of 'cocktails you can only drink here,' using local sake and regional ingredients. For this event, four original cocktails by Koba will be offered, including the signature 'Yakouboku,' named after his bar, and the 'Phoenix Martini,' presented at the 'Diageo World Class' global finals. Masato Ishioka (Ishioka Masato), bar manager of 'Yozora,' Yakouboku's second location opened in Yoichi Town, Hokkaido, in January this year, will also appear as a special supporter to enhance the event.

Guests can enjoy fantastical and original cocktails inspired by 'Yakouboku,' a flower that blooms at night with an alluring fragrance, in a refined space offering stunning views of Tokyo Bay.

'Cocktail Journey with Shinya Koba' Overview

Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Location: 28th Floor, Bar & Lounge 'TwentyEight'

Price: ¥3,400 per cocktail

Menu:

Yakouboku

Signature cocktail inspired by 'Yakouboku,' the night-blooming flower that inspired the bar's name. A botanical gin forms the base, layered with lemon, apple, and jasmine to express the rich floral aroma.

Phoenix Martini

A vodka-based reinterpretation of the classic 'Martini,' affectionately known as the 'king of cocktails.' Created from Koba's desire to give back to his hometown of Kumamoto, it features a special vermouth crafted from white wine produced in Kumamoto.

Beni (Beni)

A reimagined version of the classic 'Manhattan,' known as the 'queen of cocktails.' Uses Koba's original sweet vermouth (vermouth rosso) made by blending herbs with white wine, resulting in an elegant and smooth flavor.

Abacaxi (Abacaxi)

A dessert-like cocktail whose name means 'grilled pineapple' in Portuguese. Combines tequila, mezcal, and pineapple, with Kumamoto-grown lemongrass adding a distinctive accent.

Reservations and Inquiries: Official website or 03-6388-8745 (direct restaurant reservation line)

*Prices include tax and service charge. A separate cover charge will be applied.

*Menu items and prices are subject to change without notice due to supply conditions.

*Image is for illustration purposes only.

Guest Bartender Profiles

Shinya Koba (Koba Shinya)

Owner-Bartender, 'Yakouboku'

Born in 1985 in Kumamoto Prefecture. Began his career as a bartender at age 19 in his hometown. Moved to Tokyo at 22, and from age 29 worked for approximately five years at 'CACHÉ*' in Singapore. After returning to Japan, he opened 'Yakouboku (Yakouboku)' in Kumamoto Prefecture in 2020. Located in a renovated 150-year-old inn, the bar operates on the concept of 'cocktails you can only drink here,' using ingredients nurtured by Kumamoto's rich natural environment. In 2021, he represented Japan at 'Diageo World Class,' the world's largest cocktail competition. In 2025, 'Yakouboku' became the first bar in Kyushu to be selected for 'Asia's 50 Best Bars,' ranking 25th. He also serves as a brand ambassador for 'Buffalo Trace Distillery.'

*Now closed

Masato Ishioka (Ishioka Masato)

Bar Manager, 'Yozora'

Born in 1990 in Hokkaido. After graduating high school, studied at a confectionery school in Sapporo and began his career as a pastry chef. Worked at patisseries in Tokyo, including the chocolaterie 'Origine Cacao*' in Jiyugaoka. From 2015, gained experience as a chocolatier at the chocolate specialty store 'Bulgari Il Cioccolato.' Having long admired bartenders, he transferred to 'Bulgari Ginza Bar' and began his journey as a bartender. He steadily built achievements, winning the 'CT SPIRITS JAPAN Cocktail Challenge 2021' and the Japanese national final of 'Diageo World Class 2024,' and was appointed bar manager of 'Yozora' in Hokkaido, the second location of 'Yakouboku.'

*Now closed

###

About Conrad Tokyo

Located in Shiodome, close to Ginza, Conrad Tokyo features a modern Japanese design concept with panoramic views of Hamarikyu Gardens, Rainbow Bridge, and Tokyo Bay. The hotel boasts 291 spacious guest rooms, each over 48 sqm even in standard category—the largest in central Tokyo. It offers four vibrant restaurants and bars, state-of-the-art banquet facilities in large, medium, and small sizes, and the 'Suigetsu Spa & Fitness,' a 1,400 sqm wellness facility with a spa, pool, and fitness center. Consistently ranked at the top by international publications such as 'Forbes Travel Guide,' 'Condé Nast Traveler,' and 'Travel + Leisure.' For more information about Conrad Tokyo, visit conradtokyo.jp. The hotel also shares updates on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LINE.

About Conrad Hotels & Resorts

Conrad Hotels & Resorts, the largest luxury portfolio within Hilton, operates 50 hotels across five continents. Through bold design, memorable experiences, curated contemporary art, and authentic connections, Conrad inspires purposeful travelers. Intuitive service and deeply rooted destination experiences spark curiosity, realized through the brand's 'Conrad 1/3/5' program, offering special 1-hour, 3-hour, and 5-hour experiences that immerse guests in local culture, adventure, and charm. In addition to award-winning hotels, Conrad offers residences with sophisticated design, premium amenities, and purposeful service in desirable global destinations. Reservations can be made via the official website or the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app. Hilton Honors members booking directly through Hilton's official channels enjoy immediate benefits.

For the latest updates, visit stories.hilton.com/conradhotels, Instagram, and X.