Hi there! I’m Kazu, your guide to the charming world of Yokocho Snack Bars.
Today, I’d like to share an exciting tale from a unique event at one of my favorite snack bars—the legendary “Lucky Number Karaoke Night!”
Many snack bars in Japan host creative events throughout the year, and at this bar, every double-number date (like 4/4 or 12/12) is celebrated with a special challenge: score double numbers in karaoke (e.g., 66 or 88), and you’ll win a free bottle!
Sounds easy? Think again! Scoring a double number on karaoke isn’t as simple as it seems. The reigning champion of this event once won 13 bottles in a single night. Impressive, right?
Contents
My Adventure in the Double Number Challenge
Let’s cut to the chase—how did I do?
First Attempt:
The first song I picked was “Otonoke” by Creepy Nuts, a theme song from the anime Dandadan. Though I’m not the best singer, I decided to give it a go. The result?
81 points. Not bad, but far from a double number.
Encouraged, I jumped straight into my second attempt with another Creepy Nuts track, Bling-Bang-Bang-Born from the anime Mashle.
The result? 81 points. Again! What are the odds?! Even the bar mama joked, “Were you singing the same song?”
Break Time: A Quick Recharge
After a couple more failed attempts, I took a break and enjoyed some of the homemade omurice prepared by the bar mama.
One of the best things about snack bars is the warm, homely meals that make you feel right at home.
Round Two: Going for Gold
Refreshed and re-energized, I strategized my next move. I decided to aim for 88 points by singing a familiar favorite, Romance by Penicillin.
The result?
77 points! Finally, I hit a double number and claimed my prize—a bottle of my choice!
I kept trying with classics like:
- Runaway by Rats & Star
- Zenryaku, Michi no Ue Yori by Isseifuubi Sepia
- Dokan by Magokoro Brothers
- Katte ni Shiyagare by Kenji Sawada
But alas, my final score for the night was 1/9. Better luck next time!
Why Not Try It Yourself?
Snack bars are all about community, fun, and unexpected moments like these. If you’re curious to experience this uniquely Japanese culture, why not join one of our Tokyo Snack Bar Tours?
Our tour takes you to two different snack bars in one night, letting you dive deep into the world of snacks and sip your way through this charming slice of Japan.
I’ll be your guide, sharing insider tips, fascinating stories, and making sure you have an unforgettable experience.
Are you ready to explore the delightful world of snack bars? Join us for a night of singing, laughing, and discovering Japan’s most heartwarming nightlife tradition!
Kanpai! 🍻
