Izakaya 101: Japanese Drinking Crash Course
Learn the real rules of drinking and night culture in Japan with a Local Expert by your side.Key Facts
Overview
The first thing you notice is the noise. Glasses clinking, laughter, a cook shouting orders over the counter, and a curtain in the doorway that makes you wonder if you’re even allowed in. An izakaya is Japan's version of a pub. A casual after-work drinking spot where locals gather to eat small dishes, share drinks, and stay for hours. They're everywhere in Tokyo, but walking into one on your own can be intimidating.
Your Local Expert chooses the neighborhood and the izakaya, then guides you through everything from finding a seat to reading a menu that's entirely in Japanese. You'll pick up what locals actually order, what everyone says before the first drink, and how pouring works. Two hours later, you'll be eating and drinking like you belong there. After tonight, you'll walk into any izakaya like you've done it a hundred times.
Where we'll meet
What You'll Do
Tour Reviews
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Included / Not Included
You can, but most first timers end up at tourist-friendly spots that have menus with photos and translations. The izakayas locals actually go to often have no English, counter only seating, and ordering customs that are hard to guess. Your Local Expert gets you into those places and orders everything for you.
Yes. Izakayas range from standing bars to decade-old family run counters. Tell your Local Expert what you have tried and they will show you something different and unique that only locals would know.
Dress casually and comfortably. Some establishments have floor or counter seating, so comfortable clothes you can sit in for a while are ideal.
Absolutely. Izakayas are just as much about the food and the atmosphere as they are about alcohol. Soft drinks are included as well. Your Local Expert will make sure you get the full experience either way.
