Japan’s drinking culture is renowned for its unique style and multi-layered structure. The concepts of “nijikai” (second party) and “sanjikai” (third party) are essential components of social gatherings in Japan. For foreigners visiting Japan, understanding these gatherings can provide a deeper insight into Japanese culture. This article explores the nuances of these social events.
＼How about drinking on a local adventure in Tokyo?／
Contents
Ichijikai: The Primary Drinking Party
Ichijikai is the initial phase of the evening, typically held at an izakaya (Japanese pub) or a restaurant. It usually occurs after work or an event, where colleagues or friends gather to enjoy food and drinks. Conversations at ichijikai range from business discussions to personal matters.
Characteristics:
- Time: Evening
- Venue: Izakaya, restaurant
- Purpose: To unwind after work and socialize with colleagues or friends
＼Experience Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide.／
Nijikai: The Deeper Connection
Nijikai follows the conclusion of ichijikai. If participants still wish to drink and talk more, they move to another location. This phase is more casual and relaxed, often held at a bar, karaoke, or a smaller izakaya.
Characteristics:
- Time: Late evening
- Venue: Snack Bar, Bar, karaoke, small izakaya
- Purpose: To have deeper, more relaxed conversations and strengthen bonds
- Activities: Karaoke, games, additional food and drinks.
If you want to enjoy a tour of Japan's hidden alleyways, I recommend the "Snack Alley" tour.
Sanjikai: Time with Close Friends
Sanjikai is the third round of the evening, occurring after nijikai. By this stage, the group is usually composed of close friends or colleagues. The atmosphere is even more intimate, and venues include bars, clubs, or small drinking spots.
Characteristics:
- Time: Late night
- Venue: Snack Bar, Bar, club, small drinking spot
- Purpose: To spend more time with close friends in a relaxed setting
- Activities: Deep conversations, relaxed drinking
＼Would you like to enjoy interacting with locals in Tokyo?／
Key Points of Japanese Drinking Culture
- Layered Structure: Progressing from ichijikai to nijikai and sanjikai allows participants to gradually relax and foster deeper connections.
- Diverse Venues: Each stage of the gathering takes place in a different setting, offering various atmospheres and activities.
- Relationship Building: As the evening progresses, the relationships among participants become more intimate, and professional tensions are eased.
Japanese workplace drinking culture
Conclusion
The culture of nijikai and sanjikai in Japan extends beyond just drinking. It’s about forming deeper social bonds and enjoying different facets of social interaction. For foreigners, experiencing these gatherings can be a valuable opportunity to forge new friendships and business relationships. When in Japan, be sure to immerse yourself in this unique cultural practice.
＼Why don’t you try nijikai culture on our tour? ／
Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!
You can enjoy many kinds of drinks at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.
Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.
When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!
Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.
New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!
