Welcome to an Immersive Experience at Japanese Snack Bars!

📘 Read the previous article
Part 1: What Are Snack Bars? From Their Origins to Today — And Why There Are More Snack Bars Than Convenience Stores in Japan― Exploring the World of Snack Bars with “Suna-Jo” Mayuko Igarashi ―

In this series, I—Mayuko Igarashi, also known as “Suna-Jo,” a snack bar enthusiast who has visited over 1,200 snack bars across Japan—share the charm and enjoyment of snack bars from my own perspective.

From here on, I’ll take you deeper into the world of snack bars, drawing on my personal experiences to uncover their unique and profound appeal.
Through the eyes of a “Suna-Jo,” you may find that your image of snack bars begins to change.

Meeting Unique and Unforgettable Mamas

When talking about the appeal of snack bars, the presence of the Mama—the owner and heart of the bar—is essential.
Countless regulars return again and again for her hospitality, and some have been visiting the same Mama for decades.

Why do so many people find themselves drawn to her?
One answer lies in the Mama’s ability to truly connect with her guests and make each person feel special in a way that no other place can.

No two snack bars are alike.
Some Mamas gently listen to worries about work, family, or relationships. Others offer tough love, encouragement, or lively advice. Some sing and dance beautifully, teaching guests how to enjoy karaoke together.
Each snack bar has its own Mama, and with her, a completely different kind of charm.

Snack bars place great importance on long-term relationships with their guests.
Rather than providing any form of sexual service, they have always valued emotional care, trust, and human connection.
Many Mamas become confidants—or even life companions—walking alongside their guests through different stages of life.
This is what clearly sets snack bars apart from the adult entertainment industry: they are spaces built on trust, comfort, and reassurance.

Connecting Deeply with Local People

When traveling, opportunities to truly connect with local residents are often limited.
Yet many travelers wish they could experience the destination not just as visitors, but as part of the local community.

This is where snack bars shine.
A Mama will often help spark conversations between guests, so even if you’re shy or hesitant, you don’t need the courage to start talking on your own.

Access to Deep Local Knowledge You Won’t Find Online

One of the greatest joys of snack bars is the access to living, local information.
Snack bars rooted in their communities are filled with regulars who know the area inside and out—far beyond what you’ll find in guidebooks or on travel websites.

If you’re looking to visit hidden gems, beloved local eateries, or places known only to residents, a snack bar is the perfect place to ask.
Of course, Mamas and regulars are also happy to share tips about famous sights and local specialties.
These conversations often lead to discoveries that make your trip far more memorable.

Human Connections Born from a True “Third Place”

Snack bars are places where age, gender, occupation, and social status fade away.
Everyone is simply themselves, meeting as equals in what is often called a “third place”—neither home nor work.

Because there is little pressure to perform or impress, people feel free to share things they might never say to family or friends.
From my own experience, many men and women visit snack bars to talk about their personal stories, and many women come seeking advice about love and relationships.

With Mamas—and other guests—who have lived through both joys and hardships, new perspectives often emerge.
You may find answers you hadn’t considered before.

As these gentle, balanced relationships form across generations, a sense of comfort and belonging naturally grows.
In today’s world, where digital connections dominate daily life, snack bars remain rare and precious spaces where people connect face-to-face in a truly human way.

Closing of Part 2

Were you able to sense the depth of snack bars and the warm moments that grow from encounters with others?
In Part 3, I’ll share practical tips to help first-time visitors find snack bars that feel welcoming and suited to them.

Next time, I’ll introduce “Five Tips for Choosing the Right Snack Bar—According to a Snack Bar Enthusiast,” from the perspective of Suna-Jo Mayuko Igarashi.