Japanese Drinking Culture — A Foreigner's Guide to Nomikai & Izakaya (2025)
Drinking is woven into Japanese social and professional life in ways that can surprise newcomers. Whether it’s after-work drinks with colleagues, a neighborhood event, or a formal company party, understanding how drinking culture works in Japan will help you navigate these situations gracefully — whether you choose to drink or not. The Izakaya: Japan’s Social Drinking Headquarters An izakaya (居酒屋) is a Japanese pub-restaurant — the most common setting for social drinking. Unlike a Western pub, an izakaya serves a wide variety of food alongside drinks. You typically order both throughout the evening, and the atmosphere is relaxed and noisy. ...