Discover Japan's Nightlife: Welcome to Snack Bars!

Snack Yokocho Staff’s Seriese articles

Kazu’s Snack Bar Adventures Vol.15: Exploring Local Snack Bars-Hidatakayama

Explore Hida Takayama’s Hot Springs and Snack Bar Culture

Hello, everyone! This is Kazu from Yokocho Tours, bringing you the best of Japan’s local nightlife. Grab a drink and let’s dive in! 🍺 Today, I’m excited to share my experience exploring the unique snack bars around the Hida Takayama hot spring area in Gifu Prefecture.

 Discovering Hida Takayama Onsen

Nestled in the mountains of Gifu, Hida Takayama Onsen is known for its clear, rejuvenating waters and traditional townscape that evokes Japan’s Edo period. Walking the historic streets, visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of wooden buildings, serene stone paths, and local delicacies like Hida beef and Japanese sweets, making it an unforgettable destination.

A Lively Night Scene in Hida Takayama

Takayama’s “Ichibangai” is the bustling nightlife hub, where snack bars and izakayas light up the evening. Another great spot is “Dekonaru Yokocho,” a street packed with drink spots, attracting both locals and international travelers. In fact, there’s even an archery experience corner nearby!

My Visit to Takayama’s Snack Bars

Snack bars are everywhere here, each with its unique flair. For first-timers, a quick walk around town to check out the snack bar signs is a great start. Often, bars with long histories are named after their “mama,” or owner.

One bar I visited was called *Shinobu*. As I entered, the owner—“Shinobu Mama”—welcomed me with a warm, familiar phrase: “You surprised me! Are you sure you’re in the right place?” The walls were decorated with over 100 bottle openers gifted by customers from around the world.

Shinobu Mama has run her bar for over 35 years, and though she’s not a drinker herself, she’s famously said, *“Sake isn’t drunk by the face, it’s drunk by the mouth!”*

Curious to taste rare drinks? Shinobu’s offers a wide range of Japanese whiskey, including the sought-after Yamazaki 12-Year!

Want to Experience a Snack Bar for Yourself?

If you’re intrigued by Takayama’s snack bar scene, why not join a snack bar tour? With our tour, you can visit two unique bars in one night! I’ll guide you to the best spots, sharing stories and insights into the snack bar culture. It’s the perfect way to experience this part of Japan like a local.

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply curious, let’s make your snack bar adventure unforgettable! Join us, and I’ll introduce you to a world of unique flavors, stories, and people that make Japan’s nightlife truly special.

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Does that sound like a fun night out? Let me know if you’d like to learn more about Japan’s local bar culture or join a tour. Cheers to new experiences and unforgettable nights!