The Izakaya

One extremely interesting aspect of Japanese culture is the drinking culture in Japan. Izakayas are found all throughout Japan spread out from small family owned shops to large chains. Here, wining and dining go hand in hand with a wide array of food and drinks. This is one of the cultural gathering places of Japan. Here, workers, students, grandparents and couples all come to socialize.

Unlike your typical bar in America, the distinct separation of groups in this environment is what makes it unique. Here, you come in with your group and are seated at a table (or on tatami) and are stationed at your designated area until you leave (which I have sometimes observed to be when some member of the group drinks himself into a doze).

The lively nature of these establishments are part of what makes it such a unique aspect of Japanese culture. This is the place to be loud. The minute you step in, you hear the commotion of people laughing, eating and chatting mixed with the waiters and waitresses yelling to keep the volume up and the place energetic. The food is what makes an Izakaya a very different drinking and social experience. Usually the emphasis on good food is what attracts customers. From sashimi to yakiniku to ramen, Izakayas often have it all at a relatively reasonable price.

Historically, the Izakaya, stemming from "i" (to stay) and "sakaya" sake shop, according to a waiter at the Izakaya, used to be a place for business men to unwind and converse after a long day at work. However, these days, the establishments have diversified their clientele by expanding their menus and hosting drinking parties for larger groups.

All in all, who can deny great food and a place to drink and socialize for a reasonable price?