Izakaya Culture

Japan's informal gastropub — the cornerstone of social life. Order small plates of edamame, karaage (fried chicken), gyoza, sashimi, and grilled skewers with beer, sake, or shochu. The best izakayas are in Tokyo's Shinjuku Golden Gai (tiny bars for 5–8 people) and Yurakucho's alley under the railway tracks.