Offbeat NAGOYA｜Discover the unexpected side of Nagoya & Tokai region

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  • Experience Japan’s Festival Spirit Now! “Genki-ssu! Hekinan”｜Hekinan City, Aichi

    Experience Japan’s Festival Spirit Now! “Genki-ssu! Hekinan”｜Hekinan City, Aichi

    A vibrant summer event where modern Japan’s festival culture comes alive

    Every August in Hekinan City, Aichi Prefecture, the annual summer festival “Genki-ssu! Hekinan” brings together local energy and contemporary Japanese festival culture. Unlike traditional festivals with bon odori dances and mikoshi (portable shrines), this event invites everyone to dance freely, join performances, and celebrate side by side—blurring the line between performer and audience.

    The Sounds of Summer in Japan – Discovering the Charm of Bon Odori

    This flagship event of Hekinan draws not only local residents but also many visitors from across Japan and abroad. Generations and nationalities come together, creating a true sense of unity in the heart of summer.

    Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

    Taste Hekinan’s Local Flavors

    The festival grounds are filled with food stalls offering both classic Japanese festival snacks and Hekinan’s own regional specialties. From sizzling street food to nostalgic treats, the lively calls of vendors and the aroma of grilled delights set the festive mood.

    Dance in the Parade – Everyone’s Invited!

    A signature attraction is the dance parade, where groups perform in creative costumes with original choreography. Unlike the fixed style of bon odori, each team showcases its own way of expressing the joy of dance. The energy is contagious—you’ll feel uplifted whether you’re performing or simply watching.

    Live Music and Performances

    On the main stage, dance teams and live bands keep the excitement going. From local students to professional artists, the lineup is diverse and dynamic. International groups also join in, adding a multicultural flair and making the festival a true celebration of diversity.

    A Day to Feel Japan’s Passion

    “Genki-ssu! Hekinan” is more than just a local festival—it’s a chance to experience the vitality of modern Japan. Surrounded by music, dancing, and smiles, you’ll step out of the everyday and into an atmosphere of pure celebration.

    For travelers, it’s also an opportunity to discover a side of Japan far from the quiet and reserved stereotype. Here, you’ll encounter passion, energy, and joy shared openly by everyone around you. Joining the festival—whether by chance or by plan—will surely become one of your most unforgettable memories of Japan.

    Discover Today’s Japan in Summer Hekinan

    True to its name, “Genki-ssu!” is a festival that fills you with energy. Watch, dance, eat, or simply soak it all in—however you take part, it’s a summer experience like no other.

    Venue

    Around Hekinan City Hall

    Official Website

  • Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya

    Italian Restaurant “Tenmentabo Aiueo” – A Favorite of Akira Toriyama | Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya

    A must-visit spot where you can step into Toriyama’s world

    Beloved worldwide, Dragon Ball has captured the hearts of generations. I still remember visiting Germany around the year 2000, when I spotted the German edition in a local bookstore. Recognizing the scene made me feel as if I suddenly understood German—such is the universal power of Toriyama’s storytelling.

    More Than Just Dragon Ball – Who Was Akira Toriyama?

    One of the restaurants Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, was known to frequent is the Italian eatery Tenmentabo Aiueo, located in the Hirabari area of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward.

    Inside, you’ll find autographed illustrations and sketches from both Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump Arale-chan, giving the entire restaurant the feel of stepping into Toriyama’s creative universe. For fans, this is truly a special place worth visiting at least once.

    Generous Portions and Outstanding Flavor

    What makes “Tenmentabo Aiueo” stand out isn’t only its connection to Toriyama—it’s also renowned for its hearty portions and delicious food.

    Each dish is about 1.3 times the size of a typical restaurant serving, yet dishes are reasonably priced and authentically prepared. It’s easy to see why locals have continued to support this restaurant for so many years.

    For those who love oversized meals, there are also special “big portion” courses, perfect for sharing with friends. Stopping by here during your trip is a fun way to enjoy both good food and lively conversation.

    A Stylish Space with Japanese-Western Charm

    The interior is clean, spacious, and blends Japanese and Western design for a warm, relaxing atmosphere. It’s the ideal setting to enjoy a leisurely meal while savoring the restaurant’s generous servings.

    With space for up to 30 guests, the restaurant can also accommodate group dinners and casual parties, making it a great choice for travelers dining in groups.

    Summary

    For fans of Akira Toriyama, Tenmentabo Aiueo is nothing short of a pilgrimage spot. For food lovers, it is also a hidden gem offering outstanding flavor and impressive portions. Whether you come for the connection to Toriyama’s world or simply for the food, it promises to be a memorable dining experience.

    Access

    Address

    3-704 Hirabari, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi

    Subway

    Hirabari Station (Tsurumai Line), Exit 1 – about 3 minutes on foot

  • Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya

    Ueda Hachiman Shrine – A Historic Sanctuary in a Peaceful Residential Area | Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya

    A majestic shrine nestled in a city known for its livability

    The Ueda district of Nagoya’s Tenpaku Ward is a quiet residential area, beloved for its comfortable lifestyle, with local cafés and coffee shops scattered throughout the neighborhood. Amid this calm setting stands Ueda Hachiman Shrine, a spiritual landmark with a history dating back to the 1400s, making it over 600 years old.

    The enshrined deity is Emperor Ōjin, who was once revered by the Genji clan and many samurai warriors as their guardian. Even today, the shrine remains deeply respected by the local community.

    What Is a Hachimangu Shrine?

    A Place Steeped in History

    One of Ueda Hachiman Shrine’s most fascinating aspects lies in its location. It is built on an ancient burial mound believed to date back to around the 6th century. This area is thought to have once been the site of a small settlement, making the shrine grounds a rare place where traces of everyday life and spirituality have been interwoven for centuries.

    While locals may pass by without much thought, visitors often find themselves amazed to discover such deep layers of history hidden in this quiet neighborhood.

    Summer Ritual: Purification Through the“Chinowa”Ring

    Every July, around Marine Day, the shrine hosts the traditional Shinto ritual called “Nagoshi no Harae,” or the Great Summer Purification. A large ring made of reeds, known as a chinowa, is set up at the entrance. Worshippers walk through the ring to pray for good health and protection from illness.

    Although performed at many shrines across Japan, few people actually experience this ritual firsthand, making it a rare and memorable event for travelers.

    The Striking Arch Bridge

    Within the shrine grounds stands a rare and unusually steep arched bridge (soribashi). With its athletic, almost daring slope, it is not recommended for small children or those unsteady on their feet.

    Traditionally, rivers near shrines serve as symbolic boundaries between the human world and the sacred realm. Since Ueda Hachiman Shrine does not have a river, this distinctive arched bridge may instead act as a symbolic border, adding a deeper spiritual meaning to the experience of crossing it.

    A Calming Retreat Just Minutes from the Station

    Located only about 5 minutes on foot from Ueda Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, the shrine is easily accessible. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood just off the main road, many first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised to find such an impressive shrine in this residential setting.

    Unlike bustling tourist spots, Ueda Hachiman Shrine offers a serene and welcoming atmosphere—a perfect place to slow down, reflect, and recharge.

    Visitor Information

    Address

    3-605 Ueda-nishi, Tenpaku-ku, Nagoya, Aichi
    Phone: 052-808-3818

    Access

    About a 5-minute walk from Ueda Station (Tsurumai Subway Line)

  • An Authentic Hidden Italian Gem That Feels Like Getting Lost in the Forest – Trattoria esse | Anjo City

    An Authentic Hidden Italian Gem That Feels Like Getting Lost in the Forest – Trattoria esse | Anjo City

    Escape the hustle and bustle of city life in an extraordinary space that feels like being deep in the forest. That’s exactly what you’ll find at “Trattoria esse,” a hidden Italian restaurant in Anjo City. Surrounded by tranquility and lush greenery, you can savor authentic Italian cuisine enhanced with distinctly Japanese attention to detail.

    A Luxurious Escape in a Forest Hideaway

    Both the exterior and interior of the restaurant evoke a forest cottage retreat. You’ll find yourself immersed in an otherworldly sanctuary surrounded by greenery, offering the kind of leisurely dining experience that’s simply impossible to find at urban Italian restaurants.

    Extensive Menu of Authentic Italian Cuisine

    Every dish is meticulously prepared, with a prix fixe style menu offering 5-10 choices each for antipasto, pasta, risotto, and main courses. The seasonal ingredients shine in every dish, ensuring that whatever you choose will be absolutely delicious. An excellent selection of Italian wines is also available, perfect for pairing with your meal.

    House-Made Bread is Another Highlight

    The freshly baked house-made bread is a simple yet outstanding creation that lets the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through. The staff will gladly bring you additional warm bread as needed, ensuring you’re completely satisfied throughout your meal. When enjoyed with olive oil or the sauces from your dishes, the flavors become even more remarkable.

    Warm, Attentive Service for Complete Relaxation

    The staff provides exceptionally thoughtful and friendly service. Table clearing and service flow seamlessly, ensuring you’re always comfortable throughout your visit. While they may not be entirely confident with English, their gestures and attentive care more than make up for any language barriers, allowing international guests to dine with complete peace of mind.

    Summary

    Trattoria esse is truly deserving of its “hidden gem” reputation, offering perfect harmony between exceptional food, ambiance, leisurely pace, and service. With Anjo Koen Denpark nearby, it makes for an ideal travel itinerary to visit the park followed by an elegant Italian dinner.

    Access Information

    Address

    Fukugama-cho Sarumachi 41-1, Anjo, Aichi
    Phone: 070-3523-1313

    Access

    • About 15 minutes by car from JR Anjo Station
    • Approximately 2.7km from JR Mikawa-Anjo Station

  • Plump Shrimp Katsu is Also Popular! Hand-Flattened Tonkatsu at Hyakunentei | Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya

    A Renowned Restaurant Where Artisan Craftsmanship Shines in “Hand-Flattened Tonkatsu”

    Located near Ueda Station in Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya City, “Hyakunentei” is a tonkatsu specialty restaurant featuring hand-flattened tonkatsu (“tenobe tonkatsu”) as their signature dish, lovingly prepared by the owner-chef. The restaurant’s name embodies their desire to “deliver flavors that will last a hundred years,” and true to its name, you can taste the meticulous craftsmanship in every single bite.

    They use only premium domestic pork. Their “tenobe” (hand-flattened) style involves hand-flattening each piece of meat after ordering, coating it with breadcrumbs, and deep-frying it to perfection. This technique creates an exquisite balance of meat thickness and tenderness with a remarkably light, crispy coating.

    Despite Being a Tonkatsu Restaurant, “Shrimp Katsu” is Their Secret Hit

    At Hyakunentei, the hidden gem on their menu is actually the “Shrimp Katsu.” The presentation is so stunning that it’s been praised on social media as having “an artistic cross-section!” Packed with plump, juicy shrimp, each bite bursts with incredible seafood flavor.

    This dish is particularly irresistible to female customers and shrimp lovers, with some devoted fans saying they “come here specifically for the shrimp katsu rather than the tonkatsu.” The visual impact and perfect flavor balance make it truly exceptional.

    Spacious, Clean Interior for a Relaxing Dining Experience

    The restaurant has a calm, understated exterior, and inside, you’ll find a spacious dining area with plenty of room between tables. The uniform table setup exudes cleanliness and appeals to customers of all ages.

    While famous tonkatsu restaurants often feel cramped with tight seating, Hyakunentei allows you to dine comfortably with plenty of space to enjoy your meal.

    No Reservations Accepted – Come Early and Be Prepared to Wait

    Unfortunately, they don’t accept reservations, and lines frequently form during lunch and dinner hours, especially on weekends and holidays. Wait times of 30 minutes or more are not uncommon, so if you want to avoid the wait, we recommend arriving about 30 minutes before opening time.

    Unlimited Cabbage Refills and Miso Soup Served in Clay Pots

    Tonkatsu and cabbage go hand in hand, and at Hyakunentei, cabbage refills are complimentary. The crisp, fresh cabbage helps cut through the richness of the fried food, allowing you to enjoy your meal feeling refreshed until the very last bite.

    Additionally, the miso soup is served piping hot in traditional clay pots, staying warm until your final sip and significantly enhancing your overall dining satisfaction.

    A Small Post-Meal Delight: Ice Cream Served with a Flower Vase

    After your meal, you’ll be served cool vanilla ice cream alongside a small glass flower vase. This refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end your meal, accompanied by a heartwarming presentation that soothes the soul.

    You can feel the restaurant’s thoughtful attention to “delighting the eyes as well as the palate,” creating a memorable experience that stays with every visitor.

    Access Information

    Address

    2-100 Uedahonmachi, Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0007

    Access

    10-minute walk from Ueda Subway Station

  • A Hidden Gem in Nagoya: Shidare Plum Blossoms and Fresh Milk Soft-Serve Ice Cream at dela Farm｜Tenpaku Ward, Nagoya

    A Green Escape in the Heart of the City

    Looking for a break from the busy streets of Nagoya? The Nagoya City Agricultural Center “dela Farm” is the perfect getaway. With wide grassy lawns, greenhouses, and friendly farm animals, this free-entry park offers a relaxing experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It’s hard to believe such a peaceful spot exists just a short train ride from the city center!

    What’s in a Name? The Story of “dela Farm”

    The nickname “dela Farm” was chosen in 2015 to mark the center’s 50th anniversary. “Dela” comes from the Nagoya dialect word meaning “very” or “super,” a phrase locals often use in everyday life. It also stands for delicious, enjoy, learn, agriculture, perfectly capturing the park’s mission as a place to experience food, fun, and farming.

    Must-Try: Homemade Soft-Serve Ice Cream

    No visit is complete without tasting the farm’s famous soft-serve ice cream, made from fresh milk produced right on-site. It’s rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Gelato is also available, sometimes with seasonal flavors, so you’ll want to come back for more.

    Meet the Animals

    Say hello to cows, sheep, chickens, and even newly hatched chicks. Watching the chicks in the incubator is always a heartwarming highlight, especially for kids. The park’s paths are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, making it an easy and comfortable stop for everyone.

    Seasonal Highlights

    If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss the Plum Blossom Festival, when hundreds of colorful blossoms create a picture-perfect backdrop. Food stalls selling local fruits, sweets, and snacks make the atmosphere festive and fun. Other unique activities, like meeting Nagoya’s famous Yagoto carrots or chick-handling experiences, add an extra touch of local charm.

    Try Japanese-Style BBQ at “BBQ CANVAS Hirabari”

    Want to enjoy a Japanese BBQ without any hassle? Head to BBQ CANVAS Hirabari, a reservation-only spot inside the park where everything is provided—grills, charcoal, tableware, and even cleanup service. Just bring your own food, or choose one of the ready-to-go set menus.

    You can rent the space for up to 6 hours. Prices start from 1,700 yen for the equipment set, or 3,400 yen including ingredients (children’s pricing available). With scenic views and local specialties like Nagoya Cochin chicken, it’s the perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon with friends or family.

    Why Visit dela Farm?

    Whether you’re here for the flowers, the animals, or the soft-serve ice cream, dela Farm is a must-visit hidden gem in Nagoya. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy nature, and make lasting memories—without leaving the city.

    Access

    Nagoya City Agricultural Center “dela Farm”
    2872-3 Kuroishi, Hirabari, Tempaku-cho, Tempaku Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 468-0021

    By Subway

    Take the Tsurumai Line and get off at Hirabari Station. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk.

    By Bus

    From Hirabari Station, take a city bus bound for “Subway Hara” and get off at Nogyo Center Kita. The farm is just a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.

  • Souvenir from Byōbuzan Parking Area: Kurikinton Kintsuba | Mizunami City, Gifu

    Souvenir from Byōbuzan Parking Area: Kurikinton Kintsuba | Mizunami City, Gifu

    A Stopover to Enjoy the Flavors of Gifu

    Byōbuzan, straddling Mizunami and Ena cities in Gifu Prefecture, is the highest peak in Mizunami at 794.1 meters. Its ridgeline, resembling a folding screen, is a striking sight and attracts hikers and casual climbers alike. In summer, the mountain is also known as the production area of the sweet and juicy “Byōbuzan Watermelon,” drawing many visitors in search of its refreshing taste.

    About 5 kilometers north of the mountain lies Byōbuzan Parking Area, a compact rest stop along the Chūō Expressway. Despite its small size, it offers a rich taste of local charm.

    Local Specialty: Kurikinton Kintsuba

    This region is famous nationwide for chestnut confections. In particular, the Ena–Nakatsugawa area is celebrated as the home of Kurikinton, a traditional chestnut sweet that has inspired a variety of wagashi (Japanese confections).

    At Byōbuzan PA, you can easily enjoy this regional flavor. One highlight is Kurikinton Kintsuba—a moist azuki (red bean) coating filled with rich, sweet chestnut paste. Bite-sized and not overly sweet, it lets you savor the natural taste of chestnuts. Perfect as a light snack on the road or a thoughtful souvenir.

    Regional Flavors on the Road

    Byōbuzan Parking Area also participates in the Highway Retail Stamp Card program. Order a meal in the dining area, scan your meal ticket with your smartphone, and collect stamps—ten stamps earn you a free dish.

    Highway rest areas in Japan are more than just places to take a break; they serve as compact “mini tourist spots” where travelers can experience local culture and specialties. Stopping here adds extra richness to your journey.

    Conclusion

    At Byōbuzan Parking Area, you can enjoy Kurikinton Kintsuba, a sweet that reflects the nature and traditions of Mizunami and Ena. On your next drive, be sure to take a taste of Gifu with you.

    Access

    Byōbuzan Parking Area (Inbound / Upbound)

    3282-15 Tokimachi, Mizunami City, Gifu 509-6101

    Byōbuzan Parking Area (Outbound / Downbound)

    987-2 Kamadomachi, Mizunami City, Gifu 509-6472

  • Comfortable Baths, Restaurant, and Relaxation Spaces – Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu | Kita Ward, Nagoya

    Comfortable Baths, Restaurant, and Relaxation Spaces – Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu | Kita Ward, Nagoya

    Located on the banks of the Shonai River in Nagoya’s Kita Ward, Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu is a beloved local super-sento (large public bath). Renovated in 2021, the facility has been completely refreshed, offering a clean and welcoming environment. Every visit leaves you feeling comfortable and relaxed, making you want to return again and again.

    Refresh Your Mind and Body in Beautifully Maintained Baths

    The bath area offers a wide variety of baths, allowing visitors to choose based on their fatigue or mood. In addition to classic options like jet baths, electric baths, and carbonated springs, there are also unique and individual baths to enjoy.

    Among them, the author’s personal favorite is the “lying-down bath”. Designed slightly deeper than similar baths at other facilities, it allows you to fully immerse your neck and torso. Even in winter, you won’t feel your stomach getting cold, and the gentle warmth spreading throughout your body is wonderfully relaxing.

    The outdoor open-air bath also provides a view of the Shonai River, offering an extraordinary sense of escape that makes you forget you’re still in the heart of Nagoya.

    Detox and Relax in the Stone Sauna

    Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu also features a variety of stone saunas. Each room differs in temperature and humidity, allowing visitors to choose according to their physical condition or preference.

    The stone sauna’s main appeal is its ability to refresh the body from the inside through sweating. Spending time slowly sweating while reading or chatting is truly a “rejuvenating experience.” Many couples and groups of friends visit, and unlike gender-segregated baths, everyone can enjoy it together, which adds to its popularity.

    Satisfying Restaurant and Relaxation Spaces

    After bathing or enjoying the stone sauna, visitors can relax and have a meal in the spacious restaurant area. The calm interior enhances the relaxing atmosphere, making it comfortable for families as well as solo visitors.

    The menu offers a wide range of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes, including set meals, noodles, rice bowls, and desserts. Seasonal specialties are also available, keeping even frequent visitors interested.

    In summer, a cold dish after a refreshing bath is especially enjoyable, while in winter, savoring a meal with a warm, relaxed body is simply perfect.

    Refresh Your Hair and Mind with the Onsite Haircut Service

    Shonai Onsen Kita no Yu also has a barber shop on-site. Getting your hair done before bathing allows you to soak in the water feeling fresh and renewed. There are convenient set menus that combine a haircut and bath, making it ideal for those who want to make the most of their time.

    In busy daily life, visiting as a “self-care day” is highly recommended.

    Access

    1-132-1 Nishi-Ajima, Kita-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 462-0016

    From Sakae Station (Oasis 21 Bus Terminal)

    Board City Bus No. 8 bound for Nyoijiutaku / Suibunbashi at Platform 4 → Get off at Shinkawanakabashi → About 5 minutes on foot

    From Kurokawa Station

    Board City Bus bound for Nyoijiutaku / Suibunbashi at Platform 9 → Get off at Shinkawanakabashi → About 5 minutes on foot

  • Village Vanguard Flagship Store – The Birthplace of “Virevan”｜Tempaku Ward, Nagoya

    Where the playful bookstore culture began

    Village Vanguard is famous across Japan as the “bookstore you can play in.” Its very first store opened in 1986 in Ueda, a quiet neighborhood of Tempaku Ward, Nagoya. Even today, this flagship location keeps the same quirky atmosphere that started it all, offering visitors a mix of discovery, surprise, and fun.
    From the outside, the shop looks more like a casual garage store than a typical bookstore. Step inside, and you’ll find warm wooden floors, winding staircases, and a playful layout that makes browsing feel like an adventure. True to the brand’s spirit of creativity, even the displays are unusual—watches and wallets, for example, are arranged on a billiards table.

    An extraordinary find in an ordinary neighborhood

    The surrounding area of Ueda is a calm residential district. Against this everyday backdrop, the Village Vanguard flagship feels like a hidden world of subculture. The contrast between the quiet streets and this imaginative space makes the visit all the more memorable.

    A “not-so-Japanese” Japan that fascinates travelers

    The store is not limited to books. Visitors can browse through fashion, accessories, food items, novelty goods, and much more. The eclectic selection feels like wandering through an overseas marketplace, creating a sense of stepping outside Japan while still being in the heart of Nagoya.

    For international travelers, this flagship store often becomes a highlight of their trip. Unlike the many branch stores across the country, the Ueda location preserves the original style of Village Vanguard. For fans, it’s considered a kind of “pilgrimage site” where they can connect with the roots of the brand.

    Why you should visit

    Among the many Village Vanguard stores nationwide, the flagship in Tempaku Ward stands out with its unique atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to experience Japanese subculture, discover unusual souvenirs, or simply enjoy a bookstore that is anything but ordinary. Visiting the birthplace of “Virevan” is more than shopping—it’s a cultural experience in itself.

  • A Toast to Everyday Life – What Is an Izakaya, Japan’s Beloved Drinking Spot?

    Where drinks, snacks, and smiles abound. The casual, cozy hub of Japan’s social scene.

    What Is an Izakaya?

    An izakaya is a type of casual Japanese bar where you can enjoy a wide variety of alcoholic beverages along with small dishes, commonly known as “otsumami.” The term izakaya originally referred to a sake shop that allowed customers to “stay” (iru) and drink on the premises—hence, “izakaya,” meaning “stay-in sake shop.”

    Beverage selections typically include beer, sake, shochu, and highballs, while food offerings range from sashimi and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to fried dishes and small plates. What makes izakaya especially appealing is their relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices, making them accessible to a wide audience.

    A History Rooted in Everyday Life

    The roots of izakaya trace back to the Edo period. At first, these were simply liquor stores offering a small standing space for on-the-spot drinking. Over time, they evolved into full-fledged establishments with seating and food, becoming a social gathering place for everyday people.

    During the Meiji and Taisho eras, and especially into the Showa period, izakaya culture blossomed alongside the rise of the Japanese salaryman. The phrase “a drink after work” became synonymous with daily routine. Today, izakaya attract a broader clientele, including women and tourists, and the variety of styles continues to grow.

    What’s on the Menu?

    An izakaya menu is designed to be shared and enjoyed slowly with drinks. Common dishes include:

    Edamame & chilled tofu

    Light appetizers often served first.

    Yakitori

    Skewered grilled chicken, a staple of any izakaya.

    Assorted sashimi

    Fresh seafood that pairs perfectly with sake.

    Karaage (fried chicken) & agedashi tofu

    Hearty and satisfying.

    Closing dishes

    Rice balls, ramen, or soup to end the night.

    One unique aspect of izakaya dining is the otoshi—a small appetizer automatically served (and charged) at the start of your meal. It acts as both a starter and a table charge, with its contents and cost varying by shop.

    A Variety of Izakaya Styles

    Modern izakaya come in all shapes and sizes:

    Standing izakaya

    For quick, casual drinking sessions.

    Private-room izakaya

    Offering more privacy for meetings or dates.

    Creative/modern izakaya

    Fusion cuisine and stylish decor, popular with younger crowds.

    Chain izakaya

    Consistent food and pricing, with nationwide locations.

    Innovations like day-drinking izakaya and alcohol-free izakaya are also emerging, reflecting broader changes in social and drinking culture.

    A Hit with International Visitors

    Izakaya offer a unique cultural experience for tourists. Unlike upscale restaurants or street food, they allow visitors to dine alongside locals in an authentic, unfiltered setting.

    Many izakaya now provide English menus or picture-based ordering to accommodate non-Japanese speakers. Some even offer “omakase” (chef’s choice) courses or casual interaction with staff, adding to the charm and spontaneity of the experience.

    A Special Place in Everyday Life

    Izakaya are not reserved for special occasions. They thrive on spontaneity: “I feel like drinking today,” “I want to catch up with someone,” or “I need a little snack.” They exist between work and home, between routine and relaxation.

    Whether stopping by after work, reconnecting with a friend, or just dining solo, izakaya provide comfort without formality. Their unpretentious warmth makes them an essential part of Japan’s social and culinary fabric.