Omoide Yokocho

I can't get enough of the rush that comes with travel. From Napa, I hopped on a not-so-quick flight to Honolulu, and after an unforgettable night in Waikiki, I was off again, this time bound for Tokyo.

First night in Tokyo, diving into the cozy chaos of Omoide Yokocho’s hidden bars! 🍶✨

Arriving at my hotel around 10 PM, I was determined to beat jetlag (no such luck), so I went for a stroll through Shinjuku. Little did I know that this impromptu decision would lead me to Omoide Yokocho, a captivating bar district exuding an old-world charm. The nostalgic atmosphere here is rooted in the open-air markets that emerged after World War II.

Omoide Yokocho Evening Allure

Despite the late hour, I was amazed that many locals were beginning their night out, mainly salarymen unwinding after a long work week. It was fascinating to witness their version of a Friday night celebration,  and I was savoring the authentic rhythm of local Japanese life.

Taking a seat at a traditional yakitori restaurant, I muddled through my basic Japanese and savored a Sapporo beer. It was only later that I discovered that this not-so-hidden gem of an alley is also fondly known as Drunkard's Alley.

Enjoying Sapporo beer at a yakitori

Coming from the wine country of Napa Valley, the irony of finding myself in a place like this on my first night in Tokyo was not lost on me. It was an unexpected, exciting start to my adventure in this incredible city.

The Morning After in Drunkyard's Alley - Sleeping Off a Night on the Town