Cafe&bar Kisaragi: An Unexpected Musical Haven in Kofu

Tucked away in a residential area near Kofu Station, Cafe&bar Kisaragi is a captivating establishment blending local history, artisanal drinks, and warm atmosphere. As I made my way to Takeda Shrine, a small lantern outside instantly piqued my curiosity, leading me inside this hidden gem. The interior was remarkable – a renovated warehouse space with … Read more

Jung Bar: A Hidden K-pop Haven in Shinjuku’s Nightlife Scene

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Higashi-Shinjuku, just steps away from the APA Hotel, Jung Bar stands as a testament to Tokyo’s growing K-pop cultural scene. This stylish establishment, which opens its doors at 8 PM, offers visitors an intimate escape into the world of Korean pop culture, complete with a state-of-the-art karaoke system featuring … Read more

Hidden Gem: Grey Area Bar in Chiba Serves Up Craft Spirits with a View

Nestled on the second floor of an unassuming building between Chiba Station and Chiba-Chuo Station, Grey Area represents everything that makes Japanese bar culture special. While deliberately distanced from the typical nightlife districts, this intimate establishment rewards those who seek it out with a carefully curated space for spirits aficionados. The brick walls and wooden … Read more

Daisy: A Nostalgic Karaoke Bar Hidden Near Takadanobaba

Nestled just a short five-minute walk from Takadanobaba Station along the Yamanote Line, Daisy is a charming Korean-run karaoke snack bar with a nostalgic allure. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a timeless setting, as the well-preserved interior tells a story of decades past. The owner, a kind-hearted Korean lady, inherited this … Read more

Exploring the Hidden Warmth of Hachiman, Blue Hips and Moon, in Morioka!

Tucked away from Morioka’s bustling central district lies Hachiman, a neighborhood brimming with charm, history, and nostalgia. Once a vibrant nightlife hotspot, Hachiman now enjoys a quieter pace, attracting those who seek authentic, down-to-earth experiences. Walking through its streets feels like a step back in time, with its serene ambiance inviting you to slow down … Read more

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 … Read more

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 … Read more

“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 … Read more