Despite the far from modern surroundings, this small Tokyo bar has only been around — at least in its present form — for just over a decade, making it practically new compared to lots of other, similarly tiny establishments. But, despite being a relatively new kid on the block, it still has that wonderfully relaxed, rough and ready approach that is so often the feature of such places. Meaning the prices are low. The food is whatever the owner has chosen to prepare that day. And the customers are talked to, or tactfully left to their own devices, depending on what it is they are after.
Jon says
Very cool.
Really wanted to try one of these places when I visited Japan but always bottled it cos of language and cultural worries. Always regret it. With no Japanese and limited cultural know how, would it be worth a try? After seeing your posts I would love to give it a shot next time.
Lee says
You should. Definitely.
A lot of the cultural differences are overplayed I think. So long as you are polite you’ll be fine. Deep down we are all pretty much the same.
Language, however, could be a little more tricky. This place for example had everything available written on a board behind the counter. No pictures. No plastic displays. So nothing to even point at should things become difficult. But worse case scenario you can still have a few beers. Not a disaster by any stretch of the imagination.
Hans ter Horst says
Love the “Ozu” quality of this shot!
Lee says
I couldn’t have asked for a nicer compliment. Thank you!
Iwao Yamamoto says
My first impression on the picture is shabby and completely Asian, or makes another foreigners to feel so. Why are there only elderlies on the spot? Even if eateries are very old or full of Showa feelings there should be some lively, active or briskness in downtown Tokyo. To feel that only one picture is not enough. The conversation or chats or other factors among guests or owner is important. The picture shows what the person usually thinks of daily life or spots left from modernization. Even poor they had a wonderful moment of life and they can talk of such memories in such a old-fashend shops or Iazakaya or Akachochin I as a Japanese born and brought up in Shitamachi for a long time. But the picture is wonderful; we can not take a picture in such a moment and such a narrow space. Professional indeed.
Lee says
Thanks.
The place was actually quite full in the early evening, but, as it was a Sunday night, most of them left reasonably early. Quite a mixture of ages too. It had a real community feel. Clearly a meeting spot for regulars and friends.