When visiting Japan, you might come across unique drinking experiences that blend tradition and modernity. One such experience is “Kakuuchi,” a beloved practice among locals that has been gaining interest from curious foreign tourists. Let’s dive into what this term means and how it differs!

What is Kakuuchi? 🍶

“Kakuuchi” refers to the custom of drinking alcohol inside a liquor store. This practice originated in Fukuoka but has since spread across Japan. It’s a casual and budget-friendly way to enjoy a drink, often accompanied by simple snacks like dried fish or nuts.

Why It’s Popular

Locals love Kakuuchi for its laid-back atmosphere and the opportunity to socialize with others. It’s a place where you can enjoy high-quality drinks at retail prices, making it an affordable option compared to bars or restaurants.

Typical Kakuuchi Setup

• Location: Inside a liquor store, usually in a designated corner.
• Drinks: A wide variety, from sake and shochu to beer and whisky.
• Snacks: Simple accompaniments like edamame, cheese, and pickles.

Example: Imagine standing in a cozy corner of a liquor store in Tokyo, sipping on a chilled cup of sake while chatting with friendly locals. The informal setting makes it easy to strike up conversations and learn more about Japanese drinking culture.

Here are a few locations in Japan where you can enjoy kakuuchi

Shimazaki Shoten (Fukuoka)

Located in the heart of Fukuoka, Shimazaki Shoten offers a traditional kakuuchi experience with a wide selection of sake, shochu, and local beers. It’s a casual place where you can sip your drink while standing, surrounded by shelves of liquor.

Echigoya Honten (Tokyo)

A beloved spot in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Echigoya Honten is perfect for those looking to experience a kakuuchi while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Asakusa. They offer a variety of Japanese sake and snacks to complement your drink.

Sasaki Shoten (Osaka)

Located in the bustling Namba district, Sasaki Shoten is a family-run liquor shop where locals gather for kakuuchi. It offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with reasonably priced sake and local Osaka brews.

Sakuraya (Kobe)

A small, charming liquor store in Kobe, Sakuraya offers a cozy kakuuchi experience with a great selection of local sake and snacks. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for those who want to unwind after sightseeing in Kobe.

Masuya Saketen (Kyoto)

Nestled in the historic city of Kyoto, Masuya Saketen provides a traditional kakuuchi experience with a wide variety of local sake. Its location makes it an excellent stop after a day of exploring Kyoto’s temples and shrines.

These spots offer an authentic, down-to-earth way to enjoy Japan’s famous drinks in a casual, local setting.

Conclusion

If you’re visiting Japan, why not experience kakuuchi for yourself? It’s a unique way to enjoy local sake and beer right in the heart of traditional liquor shops. Whether you prefer the traditional, no-frills charm of Kakuuchi, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable and authentic taste of Japan. So, next time you find yourself in Japan, why not try and see? Cheers to discovering new and exciting drinking experiences! Discover a side of Japan’s drinking culture that many tourists miss!🍻

Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!

You can enjoy many kinds of drink 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!