Yokocho (Alley Bars)

A compact drinking quarter near Kabukicho in Shinjuku, packed with roughly 200 tiny bars. Its narrow alleys preserving a strong Showa-era atmosphere and eclectic establishments attract creatives and tourists from around the world. It is a one-of-a-kind distillation of Japan's yokocho (alley) culture.

A compact drinking quarter near Kabukicho in Shinjuku, packed with roughly 200 tiny bars. Its narrow alleys preserving a strong Showa-era atmosphere and eclectic establishments attract creatives and tourists from around the world. It is a one-of-a-kind distillation of Japan's yokocho (alley) culture.

An alley culture of clustered small eateries like Ebisu Yokocho and Kichijoji Harmonica Yokocho. Renovated new yokocho are appearing nationwide, forming Japan's unique bar-hopping culture.

A Showa-retro small eatery culture in Omoide Yokocho near Shinjuku Station's west exit. Approximately 100 tiny yakitori and kushikatsu stalls densely packed in narrow alleyways have operated since post-war times. The nostalgic atmosphere attracts salarymen and tourists enjoying skewers and highballs in an informal setting, exemplifying urban nighttime entertainment.

A narrow alley of small eateries near Shinjuku Station's west exit. Its Showa-era atmosphere of yakitori smoke is known to foreigners as 'Piss Alley,' offering an authentic Tokyo commoner culture experience.

A bar culture that developed in the Hanshin Underground Shopping Mall in Umeda, Osaka. Featuring long-established bars operating since the 1960s, it provides a haven for salarymen and regulars. Known for its Showa-retro atmosphere, this uniquely Osaka venue where old and new coexist has become a notable tourist destination for experiencing authentic nightlife.

Standing-only drinking bars. Affordable, quick, and easy to chat with strangers. A salaryman after-work staple, this unique drinking culture is tied to Japanese work culture.