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Shinya Yamada

What Is Izakaya? Basic Tips for Foreigners Part 1

Updated: Sep 22


What Is Izakaya? Basic Knowledge For Foreigners Part 1


Izakaya is Japanese Food Culture


If a foreigner comes to Japan for a sightseeing trip, I recommend going to an "Izakaya." Izakaya is a place where you can eat a variety of foods, and many of them are reasonably priced. Of course, there are various types of alcohol. I also love izakaya and have been to many izakayas all over Japan.



What Is Izakaya? Basic Knowledge For Foreigners Part 1

What Is Izakaya?


What Is Izakaya? Izakaya is considered a restaurant similar to a pub, tapas bar, or tavern. However, compared to these establishments, which primarily serve alcoholic beverages, the izakaya, with its extensive meal menus, is unique to Japan. Like karaoke, izakaya can be considered a part of Japanese culture, and this can be understood in English. In other words, izakaya is the best place to learn and experience Japanese food culture. The Japan Tourism Agency also recommends that foreign tourists visit izakayas.


What Is Izakaya? Basic Knowledge For Foreigners Part 1

History of Izakaya


Izakaya is said to have started in the Edo period (1603-1868). Initially, they mainly served alcohol, similar to pubs, tapas bars, and taverns. At first, liquor stores only served sake, but izakayas began offering appetizers with the alcohol. Over time, the types of meals provided by izakayas increased.


However, there are some things that foreigners should be aware of when going to an izakaya. I would like to highlight tips and tricks for enjoying izakayas in my upcoming blog posts. I personally love izakayas and have taken many of my foreign friends to them. I will share the things I've noticed as well as the points many of my foreign friends have mentioned. Please look forward to the upcoming blog posts.


What Is Izakaya? Basic Knowledge For Foreigners Part 1

Experience Authentic Izakaya Culture: Guided by Locals in Hidden Tokyo


Our company offers tours where we take foreign tourists to izakayas. We assist those who struggle with Japanese-only menus by providing interpretation services. Our guides also provide fun explanations of foods and menu items unique to Japan. Would you like to enjoy a fun time at an izakaya with an English-speaking interpreter guide?


The places we take you to are located in the heart of Tokyo, specifically in Kagurazaka, a top gourmet area yet little known to many foreigners. Kagurazaka is home to many wonderful izakayas hidden in alleys known only to locals. Why not experience authentic izakaya culture at izakayas frequented only by Japanese customers?



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How to Access Kagurazaka


The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.





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