I love the tiny bar/izakaya thing in Japan. I found a 4 person standing only bar in Osaka and can't wait to go back. I look forward to going to おくば next time I'm in Japan.
This is fairly close to what the original pubs were like. They were the anterooms of private homes where the woman of the house (usually) would earn a small side income by brewing and serving their own beer/cider.
When I lived in a small city on Shikoku there was a place just like this. A snack bar where all the foreigners would go. Mama was such a kind hearted woman who would make us takoyaki or gyoza as things went late. She'd host our birthday parties. We served ourselves when she was busy or had to step out...we'd even serve the other guests. Some of my fondest memories of living in Japan happened at Miwa's Snack Bar. I hope Mama is doing okay! This video brought back so many wonderful memories.
Reminds me of a little snack bar in the town where I lived in Ibaraki. I was a JET at the time, but several times when I went to that bar I ended up behind the bar. The mama had a great set of regular customers and we all became friends.
I'm really impressed by these women. They're basically running a household for all their guests; every day making a menu, buying groceries, cooking, cleaning and then also socializing with everyone. This is really hard work. I would be exhausted, but for them it probably gives them energy as well.
@@corysanderson6177 I didnt see anyone defecate at the bar, 0 cig ends on the floor outside, not even a wif of a donner and there probably isn't coke all over her toilet. Its definitely nicer than a pub, can you imagine if all the locals had access to your bottle at any pub 😂 best case scenario ends with you drinking piss.
Last night I finally got the chance to visit Okubo (it was my second attempt as unbeknown to me, Sundays are closed). It was on the bucket list since this video came out, and saw it as an opportunity to practice my limited Japanese too. Tomoe-san and the other patrons were very welcoming, kind and generous despite communication challenges. The food was great (natto & fried seaweed otoshi, tuna sashimi, garlic pork on shredded cabbage and okonomiyaki from the shop next door), was offered a taste of two kinds of imo shochu, and even got the chance to hang out with one of the regulars at the bar across the street (thank you Sakamoto-san for the offer). It was the highlight of my trip to Tokyo and would recommend it to anyone just to see Tomoe-san and the rest of the gang light up as you walk through the door.
Less than 5 minutes in and there's the overwhelming sense that what this lady provides is a home away from home, an extended family, a place to feel welcomed when you're feeling alone. It's honestly inspirational to see what people can do with a small venue. So much of the space is taken up just by people leaving a bottle almost as a guarantee to come back
Akko did a great job!! The video gives an authentic view of a local izakaya. I’ve been to a chain izakaya in Kyoto and it didn’t have the friendly atmosphere. We got a through picture of who comes and why. Such a lovely cross- section of people from the neighborhood. More like a neighborhood family. I was a bit slow to read the subtitles but that’s what repeated viewings are for. Thank you Greg and Akko!! I’ve loved Japanese culture and visited twice. LWIF gives a true picture of Japanese life.
Izakaya...I think epitomizes what every bar should be like. Not everybody wants to go to a bar just to get drunk or just watch sports or sit there drink and feel alone. People like to feel at home and interact with each other. Love this.
I go the bar to get drunk AND be with people. I haven’t found my spot yet, but there is a place by me that does open mic comedy every wednesday and has cheap pitchers. The bar in this video is awesome but I think all the commenters saying they wish they could visit should look in their home country in the meantime. There are good places to eat and drink in every corner of the world.
Thank you so much for doing this video! I've wanted people outside of Japan to see what an izakaya is like for a long time. I always think that izakayas are like small town pubs in the UK. They are meeting places for people. I moved to a new town in Shizuoka about 3 years ago and when I went the local izakaya for the first time, I was introduced to everybody -- just the same way when I moved to the UK many, many years ago. These days, if my wife is out of town visiting her mother, or if I'm just feeling lonely I walk down to the izakaya, sit down at the bar and I know I'll be chatting with people for hours. You captured the feeling perfectly!
Absolutely gorgeous slice of life. It's that third place that is so often missing in the anglosphere. The sense of community is amazing, and the humanity of not having a giant corporation owning and running everything is great. There's some things the Japanese really do well. Thank you so much for showing us this.
@@Bionickpunk I don't know in your country, but here in Spain, most pubs/bars/chiringuitos are attended by young people under 30. There are, of course, bars with older people in charge but most of the stablishments specific for drinking, not coffee shops, have mainly young workers, even if the clients are older.
In Germany, neighbourhood bars (called "Kneipe" in German), are usually run by middle-age to older people. And they serve the same kind of function as their japanese counterparts. A place for the neighbours to meet, to socialise. For many, it's also the go-to place for personal celebrations. Unfortunately, most of them no longer serve food (thanks to ever stricter food safety rules).
@@Alicia-ag Well our own unique bar culture is part of country˙s traditions for centuries. A place where you drink, eat, listen to live music. Even some of the most pivotal events in our people´s history started in these types of locals, since it was a popular gathering spot for people from all walks of life and classes. The relative age of the waiters and bartenders is way older than in more westernized bars and pubs. So yeah, Europe has a far more diverse third space culture than you are personally familiar with.
I absolutely loved this video, what a fantastic and friendly place to eat, drink and be around people. I really liked the feel of genuine community and that people visit the other places along the street including the owners shows how friendly and welcoming it is. Thank you Akko for sharing this excellent video with everyone. Best wishes to you, Greg and your families
Greg, I know you're into urbanism, so I wanted to say that izakaya like this (especially independently-owned ones) are great examples of a "third place" - a "familiar public spot where you regularly connect with others known and unknown, over a shared interest or activity". They can be a home-away-from-home, and "third" because it's not home and it's not work, the two main places people spend a lot of time
I love places like this. There’s a bar that’s pretty similar to this one on the way to my local train station, which is always tempting after work. It’s a really great way to get to know the locals, especially since people tend to be more open and talkative when they been drinking a bit. (I should mention that it really helps to have a decent level of Japanese places like this, since it’s unlikely anyone will be able to speak English… at least in a small town like where I live!)
When I was a young sailor in the mid seventies the bars kept our bottles the same way, waiting for us to return in 3, 4, 5, or 6 months time, depending on the route our ship had.
We have something similar with older and smaller bars called værtshus in Denmark (translating to host house). They usually have a smaller clientel of loyal customers who come everyday. In the old days people used to be loyal to a værtshus, but that generation is dying out, and going there on a weekday is generally something for students and lower parts of society.
I honestly think, that "the værtshus" is doing a comeback at the moment. We have been through the fancy craft beer phase and now people are looking for nostalgia, comfort and cheaper beers. There are places here in my town of Århus, which are thriving right now. Let's hope it stays that way. Still my favorites, when I go out.
Most places in the U.S. will not allow you to bring in outside food IF they serve food. I LOVE this concept. It's similar to a 5-table restaurant where it's cozy and the locals can come to relax. Here we call this a "dive bar". It's usually small. What we'd call "dingy (dark, unkept)". But the locals love it because it is where "family" gathers. Thank you for sharing your culture! This made my day!
Love it! Love the new direction the channel has been taking for the past few years. I would like to see more from Akko in a similar vein. Especially videos about communities and people from a Japanese person's point of view.
I've never seen anything so... pleasant and homely besides home itself. in the Netherlands, it's all money, no connection, even in personal relations. This just looks... incredible. I hope to be able to visit a wonderful place like this some day.
@chexmix0101 I have a place kinda like this in Dallas Texas. It's got the same look and feel as おくば but maybe not the super family vibe. But still a blast.
Akko, You did a great job here! Keep going!! I wish Canada had a pub like this. But pubs here is big and very commercial, especially in newer community.
Japan has myriad small izakayas like this, but there's less and less of them every year. Chain izakayas are taking their place, and the non-chain bars are mostly artisan style places that are certainly nice but are quite different from this homey style. I can only hope that there will always be a place for this specific kind of down-to-earth establishment.
I'm curious if you have a "bottle keep" service where you're from. Also, what about bringing in food from other restaurants? Address maps.app.goo.gl/TR9LJouJpT1qA4ni6
Never been somewhere with any kind of bottle keep service, but I think there are sometimes high-end private membership clubs that offer something like that. Bringing in outside food often depends on the individual bars, and sometimes local laws. There was one bar in my city that I went to sometimes that didn't have a kitchen. There was another bar owned by the same person just down the block and they would let people order food from there. Something changed with the liquor or food laws, however, that put an end to that.
I've never heard of a bottle keep service, I live in Seattle, WA area. One of the dive bars I like to go to doesn't care if I bring in food, since all they sell is snacks.
another great video! it's so heartwarming to watch. in Indonesia, for small, casual restaurants whose owners know each other like these, it's usually ok to order food from each other's restaurant. especially for street food tents type of establishments.
I have heard of a similar "bottle keep" service in some bars in the Philippines but it may depend on how close you are to the restaurant. And then you gotta wonder if anyone touched it. Those are industrial franchise restaurants. Food from other restaurants is usually a negative, but again may depend on relationship with restaurant, in which case if you buy something from the restaurant they'd be open to it. As a business after all they shouldn't sell the (use of) tables for free.
Awesome idea. Like visiting a relative, mom grandma, aunt. Love the friendly, family like feel. In this age when people are more and more lonely, alienated this is a shining example to follow and replicate. Would be great to see places like this in Europe too.
I really wish I knew enough Japanese to go to an izakaya and talk and order comfortably. This level of warmth and wholesome interactions is such a great atmosphere for enjoying drinks. Loved the videos! You guys have been doing amazing with the recent videos!
I was fortunate enough to go to one where the owner and some customers spoke English (and my best friend was a regular there). They are really awesome. The owner closed up early on a quiet night and took us all out for karaoke and visiting his friends bar. He even had a gift for me on my last day. These spaces need to be protected and encouraged in other countries.
If you know about 30 common phrases of Japanese you can make it work. Also small izakaya I went to in Harajuku had a English menu to order from. But nobody in there spoke English it was still an absolute blast to go to and we had some of the best chicken skewers we've ever had and the beer was cold and sake cheap. $35 for an absolute amazing night stumbling to the train station.
The elderly Japanese people in pubs generally cannot speak or understand English, so I would like people from overseas to make an effort to speak Japanese to them.
Thank you, made me feel happy to see such a nice atmosphere and friendly people. That sense of community and togetherness seems so rare and precious in this day and age.
I'm 28 years old and never really experienced a good night out at a bar/pub/izakaya before. It actually warms my hard and made me smile seeing how happy and friendly everyone was to each other, and they showed so much respect and love for mama! In my country, 4 fights would have broken out in the time this video aired which is why I don't go out much. Japan seems so amazing in this way ☺
I'm finally in Japan on holiday after postponing my 2020 vacation due to covid. I have been watching LWIF during the long and lonely days of covid and during the months leading up to this trip. I'm in Takayama right now and I am going into the mountains tomorrow to go to an onsen. I pinch myself every day because I still dont't truly realize that I'm finally here. Thanks Greg and Akko for helping me to keep my spirits up and making this vacation so special. You are a cherished little part of my daily life! 🎉
HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME. I spent si weeks in Tokyo/traveling while I taught a poetry class in 2003 and I still think about all my experiences. I would LOVE to go back, particularly to visit a traditional onsen for a weekend
I love this video!!! I randomly entered a super local, homey Izakaya while exploring Fukuoka (vacation) and experienced this exact atmosphere. I was in my mid-20s at the time and the moment I stepped inside the local Izakaya, I immediately felt embarrassed because it felt like I intruded into someone's home. I could tell that the few people inside were obviously local regulars and since it was not geared towards tourists, it looked so intimidating. I was shy and too embarrassed to turn around so I sat at the bar and asked the Mama for her recommendation. I was so nervous initially, but ended staying for a few hours that night. Because right away, I was greeted with curiosity, enthusiasm and kindness by the Mama and all the customers inside. The shop was quaint and every seat was close to each other. One of the elderly gentleman started recommending me shochu and introducing me to everyone in the shop. Another middle-aged man who was dressed like salaryman tried to explain what everything on the handwritten menu was in his very limited English. The funny thing was that I knew middle-school level Japanese and would have understood him better if is spoke Japanese, but he tried his hardest to explain in English so I didn't have the heart to correct him LOL I was obviously a tourist and also the youngest in the shop by margin, but the atmosphere was so lovely that it's still one of my favorite memories from Japan.
Akko's voice-over caught me off guard 😆 It's like when a foreign language course suddenly decides you're good enough at the language, so everything is in German now. It really fits the vibe of the video though! Less documentary, more "dudes, check out this interesting thing."
That is what a good "Kneipe" in Germany was too. Unfortunately much of these old fashioned bars closed already, but there are some true gems left. It's amazing to see that this culture is still such popular in Japan. People today waste too much time with social media but never get in contant with real people.
I live in the states have been in the restaurant business for 45 years and I’ve loved Japan for 55 years. My friend keeps asking me to open a restaurant in the states with him. I won’t do it. Too many variables. But in Japan, I could run one of these and I would absolutely adore it. People of Japan of the most beautiful souls. They’re so respectful and friendly when they get to know you. This would be so perfect for me. And I love how they respect and help those of a certain age.
I just have to say I love this format of short documentaries about the real life of locals. The lack of music really allows you to focus on what the vibe would be like in real life. The random conversation of the crowd, the bugs in the park, or just the silence conveys so much of what the atmosphere is truly like. No busy music overlay is awesome! It reminds me of the old PBS specials by Rick Sebak, such as “Sandwiches that you will like” or “a hotdog program”.
This place as it is shown in the video. Is more resembling as if this place is the livingroom of the fixed clients. To the extent that going to the other bars in the street is more like visiting your neighbours. You might see this in some very local Dutch bars in a village that might have two in total on the same square. This is a great example of a third place. [first place will be your home second place is where you work]
I want to say that I like this video format, which is calm and allows the content of the video to present itself well, rather than an obnoxious narrator constantly talking and distracting the viewer. It's quite nice. The topic is nice as well. Bars have come to mean loud places where young people congregate because there is nothing else to do. I wish more countries had these izakaya-style bars where people could actually relax and hang out, even when attending alone.
This was so heartwarming. I literally teared up a bit. A lot of the world has atomized itself that such camaraderie isn’t as common anymore, at least where I am at. I’d love to visit this place sometime 😊
The community Japan foster is amazing and should be regarded as such, this is such an amazing atmosphere and I don't think you can find such a cozy place like this in the States.
I've found a couple kinda similar place in Dallas, TX. One is a izakaya style and the other is a sushi place. They both recognize me when I walk in. Helps knowing a little Japanese and having a Japanese kei car though.
As far as I know there is nothing close to this where i am. Maybe there are some small bars with similar atmospheres but ive never seen one andmthey can't be common. Even so, this whole video and the izakaya are very comforting. I can tell it's like visiting with family or very close friends. So lovely! Really enjoyed this video, thank you for sharing it.
What a fantastic place. And AKKO - good job !!!! This was soo enjoyable. Ive added it to my new places to visit xls. Have been to Japan 6 times since 2018. New places like this is what interests me rather than just Ramen shops or Chain stores. Good job too Greg..in the background Im guessing :)
My whole life I have been admiring japanese people. I truly wish I was japanese. They are hard-workers and they are so smart, so peaceful, classful, graceful, well-mannered and educated. They litterally gather all the qualities I usually look in people before wanting to do anything with them. May they never change. Their souls are so beautiful ❤
I've noticed that behind the scene other family members are instrumental in producing your videos. It's nice to see one completely narrated by your wife or perhaps your sister-in-law? Since,I watched the midnight diner series on Netflix the subject is very relatable. Well done 👍
This was an amazing video that really managed to capture the feeling of the place and the people involved. Also, Japanese narration works extremely well.
Excellent video. It is so nice to see a local community meeting place being shown on social media, with people of all ages coming together to have a goid time, without the egotistical attitudes being prominent. ❤🙋♀️
On the other hand. This are the best places to learn Japanese. If you know enough to get by. just being there will help you learn by just listening. If you would go with someone else do agree with each other to only speak Japanese where you can. the people there will often enjoy helping you to become better. If you become a regular guest you would become from just a guyjin to there guyjin. besides alcohol will make it much easier for all, For one Japanese people will loosen there ways a bit. They show more there true selves in a pub then anywhere.
Don't worry! It takes a lot of courage to go in, but you will have the best time. Often these small places don't have pictures on their menu, or English and they probably speak no English. They may panic a bit and say "No English!". Just smile, say "Okay!" and ask for a recommendation "Osusume wa?" Make sure to make it clear that you're enjoying the food, etc. In 99% of the cases they will get a big kick out of it and will probably have lots of fun getting you to try a lot of interesting dishes. The other 1% of the time, they will be too embarrassed to let you know that they are annoyed and so you won' t know anything about it 😀Obviously, the more Japanese you know, the better, but it will be fine. One other way to do this, though, is that if you go to Japan, hire a guide to take you out to small places like this. They are usually quite affordable and you will get a much more interesting experience because you will understand what you are eating ;-)
@@urouroniwa well said. I would say good advice is to go in with a friend so that you can talk to each other and the bar owner doesn't feel they have to keep up conversation with the language barrier, can just make it easier the first time. But it's great to do and they're very accommodating 99% of the time!
Recently watched a Japanese series called Midnight Cafe which was about a place like this, it's Master and the customers. Never imagined such places actually existed. Very appealing.
Akko-san's videos are so fun, fried chicken and alcohol! Haha, sincerely though, I love how there are many perspectives in these videos. It's not snooty, like "this is the PROPER izakaya experience," it's just showing a glimpse of real peoples' lives and what works for them. Mama-san and her regulars seem very sweet, and I love how they take care of each other. It makes me want to have a drink with them!
I was a US Marine stationed in Okinawa about 30 years ago. We had a little place like this just outside the gates of my base (MCAS Futenma). Mama-san kept bottles for us behind the bar. Sometimes one of the guys from my barracks would bring his guitar and we'd all sing. There was a big projection TV up on the wall that played only "Ren & Stimpy" episodes nonstop. It was an incredibly quirky place, and nothing like all of the other typical military bars on Okinawa (many of which were quite tacky/sleazy, TBH). That place felt like a home away from home for many of us. I still miss that place. This video brought me right back there. I definitely need to go back to Japan again. Awesome culture, beautiful land, fantastic food, and absolutely wonderful people. ❤🙏
I've been to one of the izakaya restaurants in Tokyo about ten years ago. It was my first time with this kind of restaurant, it was near the hostel where I stayed. Mama-san and another girl who I think was the daughter dressed in kimono and I remember the atmosphere was fun. We interact with other local guests with zero Japanese. We order pork, squid, and stuff by acting or producing sounds alike. There was a TV where guests could sing karaoke. It was amusing that night.
I love this! Excellent work from Akko! This video really captured the feeling of the space and the attitudes of the people. I now feel nostalgia and long for a place I have never been. I love that about this channel. Thank you for bringing me back to Japan again. I miss it.
We live outside of Vancouver, BC and have visited Japan at least 6 times. I was a high school teacher and on one visit we met up with one of my ex-students whose wife’s father owned a small izakaya, much like this one. In Vancouver over the past 10 or 15 years a lot of izakayas have sprung up, but they are more about the food, and less about drinking. The more popular ones have more than on location. I know where Aoto is. Our favourite place to stay in Tokyo is just one station away at Tateishi. We’d love to visit Mama!
Ah man this reminds me so much of the local country bar near me. There’s several regulars, me included, that will chip in and help the staff when it’s busy. It’s such a heartwarming feeling knowing that a community can come together like this.
Wow, I think this is the only country in the world where this concept would work. Such a beautiful community to support each other like a second family.
Japan is so amazing for that. To have your entire country basically in harmony with each other is so beautiful. I just sit here and watch in awe since 99.99% of these community concepts would never work in the U.S. lol
“Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name…and they’re always glad you came…”
Cheers!
Bum bum bum bum you wanna be where you can see troubles are all the same
Well said😂
Agree.
Yet it's often called jail sometimes or your neighborhood pub.
@@tfoen7678 No, jail is when you gotta go back home to the wife!
Thats not a pub, thats a home away from home. Small izakaya is my favourite way to eat in Japan. Mama is a gem.
I love the tiny bar/izakaya thing in Japan. I found a 4 person standing only bar in Osaka and can't wait to go back. I look forward to going to おくば next time I'm in Japan.
She truly is lovely.
It is the Japanese Cheers
Actually it's not a pub because it's not a home.
This is fairly close to what the original pubs were like. They were the anterooms of private homes where the woman of the house (usually) would earn a small side income by brewing and serving their own beer/cider.
When I lived in a small city on Shikoku there was a place just like this. A snack bar where all the foreigners would go. Mama was such a kind hearted woman who would make us takoyaki or gyoza as things went late. She'd host our birthday parties. We served ourselves when she was busy or had to step out...we'd even serve the other guests. Some of my fondest memories of living in Japan happened at Miwa's Snack Bar. I hope Mama is doing okay!
This video brought back so many wonderful memories.
Thank you for sharing, that sounds like such a warm and welcoming place you found!
nice place to hang on, strangers become your family 😊
This was a wonderful video. What a wonderful, warm place to visit, and be cared for.
Stuff like this is exactly what makes me want to come visit someday
Reminds me of a little snack bar in the town where I lived in Ibaraki. I was a JET at the time, but several times when I went to that bar I ended up behind the bar. The mama had a great set of regular customers and we all became friends.
I'm really impressed by these women. They're basically running a household for all their guests; every day making a menu, buying groceries, cooking, cleaning and then also socializing with everyone. This is really hard work. I would be exhausted, but for them it probably gives them energy as well.
its almost like a public house or "pub" if you will
It is not consumiung food, its labor. Labor burns calories. Caloires are our only energy source.
@@corysanderson6177 I didnt see anyone defecate at the bar, 0 cig ends on the floor outside, not even a wif of a donner and there probably isn't coke all over her toilet. Its definitely nicer than a pub, can you imagine if all the locals had access to your bottle at any pub 😂 best case scenario ends with you drinking piss.
@@MRU112 100% I wouldn't step foot in a pub in the UK but I'd gladly live at this place
Last night I finally got the chance to visit Okubo (it was my second attempt as unbeknown to me, Sundays are closed). It was on the bucket list since this video came out, and saw it as an opportunity to practice my limited Japanese too. Tomoe-san and the other patrons were very welcoming, kind and generous despite communication challenges. The food was great (natto & fried seaweed otoshi, tuna sashimi, garlic pork on shredded cabbage and okonomiyaki from the shop next door), was offered a taste of two kinds of imo shochu, and even got the chance to hang out with one of the regulars at the bar across the street (thank you Sakamoto-san for the offer). It was the highlight of my trip to Tokyo and would recommend it to anyone just to see Tomoe-san and the rest of the gang light up as you walk through the door.
Less than 5 minutes in and there's the overwhelming sense that what this lady provides is a home away from home, an extended family, a place to feel welcomed when you're feeling alone. It's honestly inspirational to see what people can do with a small venue. So much of the space is taken up just by people leaving a bottle almost as a guarantee to come back
This lady is with a dustpan and hand broom walking down the street cleaning. Its no wonder that Japan is so clean.
Dude you have no idea. It's insane how clean and relatively quiet the major cities are.
in japan its normal for shopkeepers to tidy outside their shop and a little up and down the street as well
The street looks just like that show "midnight diner"!
Akko did a great job!! The video gives an authentic view of a local izakaya. I’ve been to a chain izakaya in Kyoto and it didn’t have the friendly atmosphere. We got a through picture of who comes and why. Such a lovely cross- section of people from the neighborhood. More like a neighborhood family. I was a bit slow to read the subtitles but that’s what repeated viewings are for. Thank you Greg and Akko!! I’ve loved Japanese culture and visited twice. LWIF gives a true picture of Japanese life.
I did find a tiny 4 person standing only bar in Osaka that was awesome!!! Maybe a 5-6min walk from Dontonburi too.
Izakaya...I think epitomizes what every bar should be like. Not everybody wants to go to a bar just to get drunk or just watch sports or sit there drink and feel alone. People like to feel at home and interact with each other. Love this.
I go the bar to get drunk AND be with people. I haven’t found my spot yet, but there is a place by me that does open mic comedy every wednesday and has cheap pitchers. The bar in this video is awesome but I think all the commenters saying they wish they could visit should look in their home country in the meantime. There are good places to eat and drink in every corner of the world.
Thank you so much for doing this video! I've wanted people outside of Japan to see what an izakaya is like for a long time. I always think that izakayas are like small town pubs in the UK. They are meeting places for people. I moved to a new town in Shizuoka about 3 years ago and when I went the local izakaya for the first time, I was introduced to everybody -- just the same way when I moved to the UK many, many years ago. These days, if my wife is out of town visiting her mother, or if I'm just feeling lonely I walk down to the izakaya, sit down at the bar and I know I'll be chatting with people for hours. You captured the feeling perfectly!
You still live in Shizuoka?
@@s70driver2005 Yep. Not moving any more. This is my home :-)
@urouroniwa すごい！if you don't mind me asking what do you do for work there?
@@s70driver2005 I'm a software developer. I do contract work mostly for overseas companies.
Absolutely gorgeous slice of life. It's that third place that is so often missing in the anglosphere. The sense of community is amazing, and the humanity of not having a giant corporation owning and running everything is great. There's some things the Japanese really do well. Thank you so much for showing us this.
It wasn’t missing it used to be called the pub
We still have them here dive bars
I envy you, having a neighborhood bar/pub that has a sense of family, a sense of community.
Comunity of drunks
It feels the completely opposite to a bar in Europe. Here 90% of bartenders are young people. I found it cute
Not necessarily true. I see a lot of middle aged and older people holding bars.The young ones are mostly in the party or tourist trap areas.
@@Bionickpunk I don't know in your country, but here in Spain, most pubs/bars/chiringuitos are attended by young people under 30. There are, of course, bars with older people in charge but most of the stablishments specific for drinking, not coffee shops, have mainly young workers, even if the clients are older.
90% of izakayas are like this too in tokyo since there's so many chains.
In Germany, neighbourhood bars (called "Kneipe" in German), are usually run by middle-age to older people.
And they serve the same kind of function as their japanese counterparts. A place for the neighbours to meet, to socialise. For many, it's also the go-to place for personal celebrations.
Unfortunately, most of them no longer serve food (thanks to ever stricter food safety rules).
@@Alicia-ag Well our own unique bar culture is part of country˙s traditions for centuries. A place where you drink, eat, listen to live music. Even some of the most pivotal events in our people´s history started in these types of locals, since it was a popular gathering spot for people from all walks of life and classes. The relative age of the waiters and bartenders is way older than in more westernized bars and pubs. So yeah, Europe has a far more diverse third space culture than you are personally familiar with.
I don't go to bars but I'd go to one like this so nice and such a safe feeling.
I absolutely loved this video, what a fantastic and friendly place to eat, drink and be around people. I really liked the feel of genuine community and that people visit the other places along the street including the owners shows how friendly and welcoming it is. Thank you Akko for sharing this excellent video with everyone. Best wishes to you, Greg and your families
I wish bars and pubs were like this where I’m from. This seems like the ideal experience.
So lovely to see this! It’s great to find a place like this, reminds me a little of MIDNIGHT DINER the show.
Greg, I know you're into urbanism, so I wanted to say that izakaya like this (especially independently-owned ones) are great examples of a "third place" - a "familiar public spot where you regularly connect with others known and unknown, over a shared interest or activity". They can be a home-away-from-home, and "third" because it's not home and it's not work, the two main places people spend a lot of time
I need a third place in my life. Bad.
@@drek7361 i think alot of people do nowdays
I love places like this. There’s a bar that’s pretty similar to this one on the way to my local train station, which is always tempting after work. It’s a really great way to get to know the locals, especially since people tend to be more open and talkative when they been drinking a bit. (I should mention that it really helps to have a decent level of Japanese places like this, since it’s unlikely anyone will be able to speak English… at least in a small town like where I live!)
When I was a young sailor in the mid seventies the bars kept our bottles the same way, waiting for us to return in 3, 4, 5, or 6 months time, depending on the route our ship had.
We have something similar with older and smaller bars called værtshus in Denmark (translating to host house). They usually have a smaller clientel of loyal customers who come everyday. In the old days people used to be loyal to a værtshus, but that generation is dying out, and going there on a weekday is generally something for students and lower parts of society.
I honestly think, that "the værtshus" is doing a comeback at the moment. We have been through the fancy craft beer phase and now people are looking for nostalgia, comfort and cheaper beers. There are places here in my town of Århus, which are thriving right now. Let's hope it stays that way. Still my favorites, when I go out.
Most places in the U.S. will not allow you to bring in outside food IF they serve food. I LOVE this concept. It's similar to a 5-table restaurant where it's cozy and the locals can come to relax. Here we call this a "dive bar". It's usually small. What we'd call "dingy (dark, unkept)". But the locals love it because it is where "family" gathers. Thank you for sharing your culture! This made my day!
This video was different from what I was expecting. It was a nice surprise in fact
Akko did such a good job on this! I also love that she narrated it! 🩷
Love it! Love the new direction the channel has been taking for the past few years. I would like to see more from Akko in a similar vein. Especially videos about communities and people from a Japanese person's point of view.
I've never seen anything so... pleasant and homely besides home itself. in the Netherlands, it's all money, no connection, even in personal relations. This just looks... incredible. I hope to be able to visit a wonderful place like this some day.
They're so cool! Go visit, Japan is waiting!
Same for US I’ve never seen a shop/bar like this.
The personality must be around there but maybe it's hard to find. Definitely common here in Scotland but good luck with the food side of things xD
@chexmix0101 I have a place kinda like this in Dallas Texas. It's got the same look and feel as おくば but maybe not the super family vibe. But still a blast.
Akko, You did a great job here! Keep going!!
I wish Canada had a pub like this. But pubs here is big and very commercial, especially in newer community.
Japan has myriad small izakayas like this, but there's less and less of them every year. Chain izakayas are taking their place, and the non-chain bars are mostly artisan style places that are certainly nice but are quite different from this homey style. I can only hope that there will always be a place for this specific kind of down-to-earth establishment.
Seemed very different from your other videos but in a really good way. Like friends talking with friends. Not as a independent piece on a topic.
If you liked it, we did another one that I think has a similar feel ua-cam.com/video/BcPGdM76O2U/v-deo.html
Great work, Akko! I thoroughly enjoyed your Okubo Izakaya story. Keep up your amazing work!
The vide is like real life Midnight Diner. So happy to watch this one
What a lovely place! I wish I i had something with this atmosphere where I live. I've never heard of bottle keep before, what a cool idea.
First time I saw it in Japan I was so confused, but it's really cool!
I'm curious if you have a "bottle keep" service where you're from. Also, what about bringing in food from other restaurants? Address maps.app.goo.gl/TR9LJouJpT1qA4ni6
Never been somewhere with any kind of bottle keep service, but I think there are sometimes high-end private membership clubs that offer something like that.
Bringing in outside food often depends on the individual bars, and sometimes local laws. There was one bar in my city that I went to sometimes that didn't have a kitchen. There was another bar owned by the same person just down the block and they would let people order food from there. Something changed with the liquor or food laws, however, that put an end to that.
I've never heard of a bottle keep service, I live in Seattle, WA area. One of the dive bars I like to go to doesn't care if I bring in food, since all they sell is snacks.
another great video! it's so heartwarming to watch. in Indonesia, for small, casual restaurants whose owners know each other like these, it's usually ok to order food from each other's restaurant. especially for street food tents type of establishments.
I have heard of a similar "bottle keep" service in some bars in the Philippines but it may depend on how close you are to the restaurant. And then you gotta wonder if anyone touched it. Those are industrial franchise restaurants. Food from other restaurants is usually a negative, but again may depend on relationship with restaurant, in which case if you buy something from the restaurant they'd be open to it. As a business after all they shouldn't sell the (use of) tables for free.
No, but that's an amazing idea! One day I dream having my own shop, so that's brilliant.
Awesome idea. Like visiting a relative, mom grandma, aunt. Love the friendly, family like feel. In this age when people are more and more lonely, alienated this is a shining example to follow and replicate. Would be great to see places like this in Europe too.
I really wish I knew enough Japanese to go to an izakaya and talk and order comfortably. This level of warmth and wholesome interactions is such a great atmosphere for enjoying drinks. Loved the videos! You guys have been doing amazing with the recent videos!
I was fortunate enough to go to one where the owner and some customers spoke English (and my best friend was a regular there). They are really awesome. The owner closed up early on a quiet night and took us all out for karaoke and visiting his friends bar. He even had a gift for me on my last day. These spaces need to be protected and encouraged in other countries.
@@stevenc123 These kind of places would be so great to have around but I don't think they'd be financially viable where I live 🥲
If you know about 30 common phrases of Japanese you can make it work. Also small izakaya I went to in Harajuku had a English menu to order from. But nobody in there spoke English it was still an absolute blast to go to and we had some of the best chicken skewers we've ever had and the beer was cold and sake cheap. $35 for an absolute amazing night stumbling to the train station.
The elderly Japanese people in pubs generally cannot speak or understand English, so I would like people from overseas to make an effort to speak Japanese to them.
@@gwingggg5 I tried my best!!!
Thank you, made me feel happy to see such a nice atmosphere and friendly people. That sense of community and togetherness seems so rare and precious in this day and age.
I'm 28 years old and never really experienced a good night out at a bar/pub/izakaya before. It actually warms my hard and made me smile seeing how happy and friendly everyone was to each other, and they showed so much respect and love for mama! In my country, 4 fights would have broken out in the time this video aired which is why I don't go out much. Japan seems so amazing in this way ☺
But where do you live? I'll take you out for a good time and no fights!!!
There are good comfy bars all over the world! Maybe not with a grandma serving red bean rice but still. Get out there. It’s on you.
I'm finally in Japan on holiday after postponing my 2020 vacation due to covid. I have been watching LWIF during the long and lonely days of covid and during the months leading up to this trip. I'm in Takayama right now and I am going into the mountains tomorrow to go to an onsen. I pinch myself every day because I still dont't truly realize that I'm finally here. Thanks Greg and Akko for helping me to keep my spirits up and making this vacation so special. You are a cherished little part of my daily life! 🎉
HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME. I spent si weeks in Tokyo/traveling while I taught a poetry class in 2003 and I still think about all my experiences. I would LOVE to go back, particularly to visit a traditional onsen for a weekend
Places like the one in this video are the best.
Like a Japanese version of "Cheers" with fun and interesting costumers and kind and friendly service.
I love this video!!! I randomly entered a super local, homey Izakaya while exploring Fukuoka (vacation) and experienced this exact atmosphere. I was in my mid-20s at the time and the moment I stepped inside the local Izakaya, I immediately felt embarrassed because it felt like I intruded into someone's home. I could tell that the few people inside were obviously local regulars and since it was not geared towards tourists, it looked so intimidating. I was shy and too embarrassed to turn around so I sat at the bar and asked the Mama for her recommendation. I was so nervous initially, but ended staying for a few hours that night. Because right away, I was greeted with curiosity, enthusiasm and kindness by the Mama and all the customers inside. The shop was quaint and every seat was close to each other. One of the elderly gentleman started recommending me shochu and introducing me to everyone in the shop. Another middle-aged man who was dressed like salaryman tried to explain what everything on the handwritten menu was in his very limited English. The funny thing was that I knew middle-school level Japanese and would have understood him better if is spoke Japanese, but he tried his hardest to explain in English so I didn't have the heart to correct him LOL I was obviously a tourist and also the youngest in the shop by margin, but the atmosphere was so lovely that it's still one of my favorite memories from Japan.
I would love to visit here. The people are so warm and kind, and everyone just enjoys their time and each other's company. Very heartwarming ❤
Akko's voice-over caught me off guard 😆 It's like when a foreign language course suddenly decides you're good enough at the language, so everything is in German now. It really fits the vibe of the video though! Less documentary, more "dudes, check out this interesting thing."
Young drinking along with elders and listening to their experiences, and that all in a very good atmosphere, what more can You ask for.
Reminds me of experience of being on a tapas crawl in Madrid with everyone out from babies in strollers to elderly.
It is warmhearted, hardworking people like Mama that keep everyday society together. And they get far too little praise for this.
i used to always watch your channel when i was in middle school i just remembered it now
My absolute favorite part about this is the genuine sense of community you can feel so present there.
Thankyou for another beautiful video. Bars are nothing like that in New Zealand. It is another reason that makes me want to visit Japan.
That is what a good "Kneipe" in Germany was too. Unfortunately much of these old fashioned bars closed already, but there are some true gems left. It's amazing to see that this culture is still such popular in Japan. People today waste too much time with social media but never get in contant with real people.
I can feel the warmth through the screen, this is true community work
I live in the states have been in the restaurant business for 45 years and I’ve loved Japan for 55 years. My friend keeps asking me to open a restaurant in the states with him. I won’t do it. Too many variables. But in Japan, I could run one of these and I would absolutely adore it. People of Japan of the most beautiful souls. They’re so respectful and friendly when they get to know you. This would be so perfect for me. And I love how they respect and help those of a certain age.
I just have to say I love this format of short documentaries about the real life of locals. The lack of music really allows you to focus on what the vibe would be like in real life. The random conversation of the crowd, the bugs in the park, or just the silence conveys so much of what the atmosphere is truly like. No busy music overlay is awesome! It reminds me of the old PBS specials by Rick Sebak, such as “Sandwiches that you will like” or “a hotdog program”.
This place as it is shown in the video. Is more resembling as if this place is the livingroom of the fixed clients. To the extent that going to the other bars in the street is more like visiting your neighbours.
You might see this in some very local Dutch bars in a village that might have two in total on the same square.
This is a great example of a third place. [first place will be your home second place is where you work]
I want to say that I like this video format, which is calm and allows the content of the video to present itself well, rather than an obnoxious narrator constantly talking and distracting the viewer. It's quite nice. The topic is nice as well.
Bars have come to mean loud places where young people congregate because there is nothing else to do. I wish more countries had these izakaya-style bars where people could actually relax and hang out, even when attending alone.
This was so heartwarming. I literally teared up a bit. A lot of the world has atomized itself that such camaraderie isn’t as common anymore, at least where I am at. I’d love to visit this place sometime 😊
And the street, so walkable and cozy!
The community Japan foster is amazing and should be regarded as such, this is such an amazing atmosphere and I don't think you can find such a cozy place like this in the States.
I've found a couple kinda similar place in Dallas, TX. One is a izakaya style and the other is a sushi place. They both recognize me when I walk in. Helps knowing a little Japanese and having a Japanese kei car though.
As far as I know there is nothing close to this where i am. Maybe there are some small bars with similar atmospheres but ive never seen one andmthey can't be common.
Even so, this whole video and the izakaya are very comforting. I can tell it's like visiting with family or very close friends. So lovely!
Really enjoyed this video, thank you for sharing it.
What a fantastic place. And AKKO - good job !!!! This was soo enjoyable. Ive added it to my new places to visit xls. Have been to Japan 6 times since 2018. New places like this is what interests me rather than just Ramen shops or Chain stores. Good job too Greg..in the background Im guessing :)
Akko shot everything 100%. Akko did the first edit and then we did the second edit together. My wife and I did the subtitles.
My whole life I have been admiring japanese people. I truly wish I was japanese. They are hard-workers and they are so smart, so peaceful, classful, graceful, well-mannered and educated. They litterally gather all the qualities I usually look in people before wanting to do anything with them.
May they never change. Their souls are so beautiful ❤
I like this kind of content that shows the regular, normal life of Japanese people instead of the tourist things. Keep up the good work 👍🏻
I love the vibe! It's like you're going to hang out at a nice old lady's house to chill and eat and drink.
I've noticed that behind the scene other family members are instrumental in producing your videos. It's nice to see one completely narrated by your wife or perhaps your sister-in-law? Since,I watched the midnight diner series on Netflix the subject is very relatable. Well done 👍
What a charming place.
You can tell she is a very sweet lady, and this is what brings people back.
So charming and warm. Loved it.
This was an amazing video that really managed to capture the feeling of the place and the people involved. Also, Japanese narration works extremely well.
So wholesome. I love this.
The way Life should be lived .... GREAT video
Excellent video. It is so nice to see a local community meeting place being shown on social media, with people of all ages coming together to have a goid time, without the egotistical attitudes being prominent. ❤🙋♀️
This is one of the best videos you've ever made 👏
Always a good day when LWIF drops a new video
This is probably my most favorite video on this channel and I have watched almost all of them.
I love the authenticity of this video. Thanks for btinging Japan to my home
Loved this video! Really like the communal aspect of these small izakayas. I'd be wary of going inside on my own, though, not knowing Japanese 😅
On the other hand. This are the best places to learn Japanese. If you know enough to get by. just being there will help you learn by just listening.
If you would go with someone else do agree with each other to only speak Japanese where you can. the people there will often enjoy helping you to become better. If you become a regular guest you would become from just a guyjin to there guyjin.
besides alcohol will make it much easier for all, For one Japanese people will loosen there ways a bit. They show more there true selves in a pub then anywhere.
Don't worry! It takes a lot of courage to go in, but you will have the best time. Often these small places don't have pictures on their menu, or English and they probably speak no English. They may panic a bit and say "No English!". Just smile, say "Okay!" and ask for a recommendation "Osusume wa?" Make sure to make it clear that you're enjoying the food, etc. In 99% of the cases they will get a big kick out of it and will probably have lots of fun getting you to try a lot of interesting dishes. The other 1% of the time, they will be too embarrassed to let you know that they are annoyed and so you won' t know anything about it 😀Obviously, the more Japanese you know, the better, but it will be fine.
One other way to do this, though, is that if you go to Japan, hire a guide to take you out to small places like this. They are usually quite affordable and you will get a much more interesting experience because you will understand what you are eating ;-)
@@urouroniwa well said. I would say good advice is to go in with a friend so that you can talk to each other and the bar owner doesn't feel they have to keep up conversation with the language barrier, can just make it easier the first time. But it's great to do and they're very accommodating 99% of the time!
DO IT!!! My wife and I had an absolute blast at a small izakaya we found in Harajuku. Best $35 I've ever spent!!!
this is THE most wholesome place to consume alcohol i have seen in my life :)
Recently watched a Japanese series called Midnight Cafe which was about a place like this, it's Master and the customers. Never imagined such places actually existed. Very appealing.
I'm a fan of Midnight Diner (the name I know it by), too. One of my favorite series ever. It's great to see such a place in real life.
My new favorite episode. This should win awards, and I really really want to go there now!!
RIP Greg.
You will be remembered.
Oh no!!!!!
Who's Greg?
I just fell in love with the whole street. I have tears in my eyes. It's so beautiful.
Very excelent video! I half expected Gorou fro kodokuno no gourmet to appear anytime.
Thank for the video. Can't wait for next one.
This video made me so happy! Love the friendly atmosphere in there!
The best of both worlds. A cold glass of beer and a grandma's home cooking.
Akko-san's videos are so fun, fried chicken and alcohol! Haha, sincerely though, I love how there are many perspectives in these videos. It's not snooty, like "this is the PROPER izakaya experience," it's just showing a glimpse of real peoples' lives and what works for them. Mama-san and her regulars seem very sweet, and I love how they take care of each other. It makes me want to have a drink with them!
Dang this was really heartwarming to watch
I was a US Marine stationed in Okinawa about 30 years ago. We had a little place like this just outside the gates of my base (MCAS Futenma). Mama-san kept bottles for us behind the bar. Sometimes one of the guys from my barracks would bring his guitar and we'd all sing. There was a big projection TV up on the wall that played only "Ren & Stimpy" episodes nonstop.
It was an incredibly quirky place, and nothing like all of the other typical military bars on Okinawa (many of which were quite tacky/sleazy, TBH).
That place felt like a home away from home for many of us.
I still miss that place. This video brought me right back there.
I definitely need to go back to Japan again. Awesome culture, beautiful land, fantastic food, and absolutely wonderful people. ❤🙏
Such a lovely, heartwarming video!
I've been to one of the izakaya restaurants in Tokyo about ten years ago. It was my first time with this kind of restaurant, it was near the hostel where I stayed. Mama-san and another girl who I think was the daughter dressed in kimono and I remember the atmosphere was fun. We interact with other local guests with zero Japanese. We order pork, squid, and stuff by acting or producing sounds alike. There was a TV where guests could sing karaoke. It was amusing that night.
I love this! Excellent work from Akko! This video really captured the feeling of the space and the attitudes of the people. I now feel nostalgia and long for a place I have never been. I love that about this channel. Thank you for bringing me back to Japan again. I miss it.
We live outside of Vancouver, BC and have visited Japan at least 6 times. I was a high school teacher and on one visit we met up with one of my ex-students whose wife’s father owned a small izakaya, much like this one. In Vancouver over the past 10 or 15 years a lot of izakayas have sprung up, but they are more about the food, and less about drinking. The more popular ones have more than on location. I know where Aoto is. Our favourite place to stay in Tokyo is just one station away at Tateishi. We’d love to visit Mama!
I love this. Greg, your SIL did a great job. It's so cool to see a local interacting with other locals.
Ah man this reminds me so much of the local country bar near me. There’s several regulars, me included, that will chip in and help the staff when it’s busy. It’s such a heartwarming feeling knowing that a community can come together like this.
It’s like going for a drink at a friends house! How lovely! The owner seems like everyone’s mom or grandma ❤
OMG all the Mamas at the different izakayas are so cute!! May they live a healthy, long life and prosper 💜🤎
日本語のヴィデオおもしろかったです。ありがとうございました。🤩🍶
1982-83, MSG wandering the side streets hitting every bar walking back from duty. great days.. Roppongi Raiders
This type of place is so cute. I love the intimacy.
Wow, I think this is the only country in the world where this concept would work. Such a beautiful community to support each other like a second family.
Japan is so amazing for that. To have your entire country basically in harmony with each other is so beautiful. I just sit here and watch in awe since 99.99% of these community concepts would never work in the U.S. lol
'Youths' would destroy it in the US in a millisecond.
Sure man. Why bcaz ? No racial inclusion. Lmao. No gulf muslims no blacks from Africa. They Bing chilling
I guess you have never been to Texas. 🤠 And by Texas I don't mean Dallas or Austin.
It's very much like a traditional British pub
Reminds me of 'Midnight Diner'. What an awesome place.
This is incredibly heartwarming and adorable. I've watched this channel for a long time and this was wonderful.
This is a cute story. It's the ultimate neighborhood bar where it's more like a family gathering.