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
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 … Read more
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
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
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
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
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 … Read more
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 … Read more
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 … 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
