A Spirited Evening in Nakano: Whiskey, Rum, and Memorable Encounters in the Bar Megumi.

Walking through Nakano district on a crisp evening, I was fulfilling a long-standing promise to visit Bar Megumi. The anticipation had built up over nearly a year, centered around their special release of a private bottling from Gaieflow Distillery in Shizuoka. The owner had invested in a mini cask ownership program at the distillery’s inception, […]

A Solitary Sojourn: Rediscovering Numazu’s Spirited Sanctuary

Venturing alone into a familiar yet mysterious bar in Numazu, Shizuoka, I discovered the profound difference between group and solo outings. My previous visit, accompanied by friends, had been a blur of conversation that overshadowed the bar’s unique ambiance. This time, armed with the courage of prior acquaintance, I stepped into the establishment with a […]

Snack Bars and Gender Dynamics: Reflections on Japan’s Nightlife

My recent visit to a “snack” bar near Chiba offered an intriguing glimpse into Japan’s unique nightlife culture. These establishments, distinct from typical Western bars, operate on a set-price system that includes seating fees, basic drinks, and snacks. What sets them apart is the social atmosphere cultivated by the “Mama-san” – the female owner whom […]

Discovering Fussa: A Glimpse into Tokyo’s Small Nightlife by Yokota Military Base

Having previously explored the nightlife next to Yokosuka Marine Base, I was curious to see what Fussa, located near the American Yokota Air Base, had to offer. While Yokota is one of the largest military bases in Tokyo, its proximity to the capital city is striking. This base, a symbol of post-war cooperation between the […]

Nightcap in Kawasaki: Bourbon and Local Flavor at Bar Log

Despite its million-plus population, Kawasaki’s nightlife scene presents a surprisingly intimate face. Nestled between the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Yokohama, this city offers a unique drinking experience that caters primarily to its residents. Unlike the sprawling entertainment districts of smaller cities like Sendai or Hiroshima, which draw crowds from surrounding areas, Kawasaki’s bars serve […]

Gosse and Tentekomai: Whisky Gems in Meguro, Tokyo

Nestled in the heart of Meguro, Tokyo, lie two hidden gems for whisky enthusiasts: Gosse and Tentekomai. Gosse, located a 10-minute walk from Meguro Station down Kamurozaka slope and right onto Yamate Dori, is a bottlers’ paradise. Run by two brothers with direct connections to Scottish distilleries, this cozy bar offers an extensive selection of […]

“Menhera-no-Kabe: Osaka’s Quirky Bar Experience

My nighttime visits to Osaka usually focus on the Namba district, which attracts many Asian tourists due to its easy access from Kansai Airport. Osaka’s North and South areas offer distinct experiences: the North tends to have more upscale bars and restaurants, while the South caters to a younger, more tourist-oriented crowd with its energetic […]

Shibuya After Dark: A Glimpse into Tokyo’s Neon-Lit Nightlife

As the neon lights of Shibuya flickered to life, a friend and I set out on a nocturnal adventure to uncover the vibrant bar scene that pulses through the veins of this iconic Tokyo district. Our journey would take us from tiny alleyways to bustling slopes, offering a glimpse into the eclectic nightlife that makes […]

Whispers of Nikka Whisky: Bar Jiro’s 80-Year-Old Secret in Matsuyama.

On my way to Hiroshima, I couldn’t resist the urge to make an unplanned detour to Matsuyama on Shikoku island. This wasn’t my first rodeo in Matsuyama – I’d been to this major West Shikoku city before, famous for its hot spa, Dougo-Onsen. If you’re familiar with the renowned Japanese writer Soseki Natsume and his […]

Bar the Bliss: Revisiting Yoshiwara-honcho: A Journey Through Time and LightBar the Bliss:

In the heart of Fuji city lies a small universe known as Yoshiwara-honcho. My recent return to this enigmatic spot was driven by a singular purpose: to retrace the footsteps of a cherished memory from 2019. Back then, a group of friends and I, fresh from a dinner party, had stumbled upon this place, allowing […]

Tokyo’s Hidden Sake Haven, Ginza Kimijimaya: A Tasting Adventure Near Ginza and Tokyo Station.

Inside Bar counter of Kimijimaya Have you ever wondered where to find the perfect spot to savor authentic Japanese sake without the pressure of pairing it with a full sushi meal? Look no further! Nestled between Tokyo and Ginza, just a stone’s throw from Tokyo Station, lies a charming sake tasting counter that’s about to […]

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