LorAs you step into the dimly lit bars around Yokosuka Naval Base, you’re transported to a slice of America nestled in the heart of Japan. Unlike traditional Japanese izakayas or snack bars, these establishments pulse with a distinctly Western energy – neon lights illuminate walls decorated with license plates, dollar bills, and sports memorabilia. The … Read more
Takadanobaba, often overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbor Shinjuku, holds surprising treasures for those willing to explore its winding streets. While strolling down Sakae-dori with colleagues for a year-end party, what initially seemed like a mundane drinking district transformed into an evening of unexpected discoveries. The turning point came with the discovery of a … Read more
As twilight descends over Yokosuka, the port city transforms into a captivating tapestry of neon-lit streets and whispered stories. Near Yokosuka-Chuo Station, Wakamatsu Market springs to life, its narrow alleyways housing over 100 bars and snack spots that form a labyrinth of local nightlife. Unlike its famous cousin, Tokyo’s Golden Gai, this hidden gem remains … Read more
Have you ever stumbled upon a place that completely transforms your understanding of something as seemingly simple as a cup of coffee? That’s exactly what happened to me during my recent trip to Kobe, a city that surprised me with its incredible coffee culture. coffee up My first stop was a little place called Coffee … Read more
Nestled in the pulsating heart of Tokyo’s Shinjuku ward, Kabukicho stands as a kaleidoscopic testament to urban Japanese nightlife and culture. This legendary district, often referred to as the entertainment capital of Tokyo, is a mesmerizing labyrinth of neon lights, towering establishments, and an energy that seems to vibrate with endless possibility. Our recent exploration … Read more
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, … Read more
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 … Read more
My recent exploration of a snack bar near Chiba revealed a fascinating slice of contemporary Japanese nightlife. Unlike Western bars, these establishments (known simply as “snacks” in Japan) operate on a unique model that combines hospitality, entertainment, and social connection. The pricing structure itself tells a story: a set fee covers not just your seat … Read more
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 … Read more
This holiday season, I decided to explore Nonbee Yokacho in Shibuya, a bar district that’s lesser-known compared to the famous Golden Gai in Shinjuku. Despite its low profile, it’s conveniently located just around the corner from Shibuya Station, only a five-minute walk from the world-famous Scramble Crossing. This hidden gem offers a unique charm and … Read more
Ah, the thrill of the hunt! There’s something undeniably satisfying about scouring hidden gems, and for me, that often translates to exploring the unique offerings of local liquor stores. Recently, I found myself on a mission in the liquor shop, Kakinuma, on the Route7 or Kan-nana. Recently, a mission called me to the shelves of … Read more
