Learning Japanese Through Izakayas: A Foreigner’s Guide

If you’re a foreigner visiting Japan, an izakaya experience is necessary. These traditional Japanese pubs are vibrant social hubs where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. An izakaya visit offers a taste of Japanese culture and a fantastic opportunity to learn Japanese in a fun and immersive environment.

Quick Jump to…

• What is an Izakaya?
• Why Visit an Izakaya?
• What to Expect!
• Recent Developments: Menu Changes Due to Weak Yen
• Tips to Learn Japanese at an Izakaya
• Must Try Izakaya Dishes 
• Popular Izakaya Chains 
• FAQ

What is an Izakaya?

An izakaya (居酒屋) is a type of informal Japanese bar that serves a variety of alcoholic drinks and small dishes. Think of it as a Japanese-style pub or tapas bar. Izakayas range from small, family-run establishments to larger chains, each offering a unique ambiance and menu.

Why Visit an Izakaya?

1. Cultural Experience: Izakayas are integral to Japanese social life. They are places where people unwind after work, socialize with friends, and celebrate special occasions.
2. Variety of Food and Drinks: Izakayas offer a diverse menu that includes sashimi and yakitori, tempura, and edamame. The drink options are equally varied, featuring sake, shochu, beer, and cocktails.
3. Warm Atmosphere: Izakayas are known for their friendly and welcoming environment. The close-knit seating often leads to interactions with locals and fellow travelers.
4. Affordable: Compared to high-end restaurants, izakayas are reasonably priced, making them accessible to everyone.
5. Learning Japanese: Engaging with locals and reading menus can significantly enhance your Japanese language skills.

What to Expect!

• Seating Arrangements: You may encounter different seating styles, such as bar counters, tables, tatami mats, or private rooms.
• Ordering System: Many izakayas have menus in English or with pictures, but reading the Japanese version can be a great way to learn Japanese. Some places use a digital ordering system.
• Shared Dishes: Izakayas serve small plates meant for sharing. It’s a great way to try various dishes without consuming a full meal.
• Lively Environment: Expect a bustling atmosphere with chatter, laughter, and the occasional clinking of glasses.

Recent Developments: Menu Changes Due to Weak Yen

Some izakayas have adjusted their pricing due to the weak yen, offering different menus with varied prices to suit various budgets. For example, if one dish costs 1,000 yen for locals, they charge 2,000 yen for foreigners as they have a stronger purchasing power. When this news was released, lots of questions and comments were raised. Moreover, this sort of system existed a while back, where store staff stood on the streets, luring people to go to their restaurants. If you didn’t know, in most cases, the store gives you a separate menu with higher price ranges when you visit the restaurant in this way. However, the good thing is that only some of the izakayas adapt to this system.

To prevent getting charged additionally, we recommend not getting into a restaurant with the help of the staff standing on the streets! If the menu looks interesting, instead of asking the staff to lead you to the restaurant, go into the restaurant yourself!

Tips for Learning Japanese at an Izakaya

1. Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few Japanese phrases like “sumimasenすみません” (excuse me) and “arigatou gozaimasuありがとう ございます” (thank you!) can enhance your experience and show your effort in learning Japanese.
2. Use the Menu as a Learning Tool: Try to read and understand the Japanese menu. It’s a great way to learn food-related vocabulary.
3. Engage with Locals: Don’t be shy about practicing your Japanese with locals. Most people will appreciate your efforts and help you out.
4. Take Notes: Bring a small notebook to jot down new words and phrases you learn during your visit.
5. Respect the Culture: Be mindful of local customs, such as pouring drinks for others and using chopsticks correctly.

Bonus Tip: Check out the most useful words to dive into Japanese culture: 100 Basic Japanese Words

Must-Try Izakaya Dishes (in Japanese)

• Yakitori (焼き鳥): Skewered and grilled chicken, often seasoned with salt or tare sauce.
• Sashimi (刺身): Fresh, raw fish slices served with soy sauce and wasabi.
• Karaage (唐揚げ): Japanese-style fried chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
• Takoyaki (たこ焼き): Octopus balls topped with sauce、 mayo, and bonito flakes.
• Edamame (枝豆): Boiled and salted young soybeans, perfect for snacking.

Popular Izakaya Chains

今井屋本店

• Shinjuku Location:  東京都新宿区新宿3-33-10 新宿モリエールビル B1F
• Opening Hours [Monday – Friday 17:00~23:30 | Saturday & Sunday 11:30~14:00/17:00~23:30]
• Price Range ￥6,000～￥7,999 at night

佐五右衛門

• Shibuya Location: 東京都渋谷区道玄坂2-29-8 道玄坂センタービル 4F
• Opening Hours [Monday – Sunday 17:30~23:30]
• Price Range ￥4,000～￥4,999 at night

俺のやきとり

• Shibuya Location: 東京都渋谷区宇田川町12-7　エメラルドビル３階
• Opening Hours [Monday – Friday 17:00~23:30 | Saturday & Sunday 11:30~14:30/16:00~23:30]
• Price Range ￥5,000～￥5,999 at night

鳥貴族

• Shibuya Location: 東京都渋谷区 道玄坂 ２丁目 ９-９ 梅原ﾋﾞﾙ ２階
• Opening Hours [Monday – Friday 16:00〜4:00 | Saturday & Sunday 15:00〜4:00]
• Price Range ￥2,000～￥2,999 at night

Check here for more Restaurant Recommendations

An izakaya visit is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Japanese hospitality and culinary tradition. It’s also a unique and enjoyable way to learn Japanese. Whether you’re looking to relax after a day of sightseeing or dive into Japan’s nightlife. 

FAQ

How can visiting an izakaya help me learn Japanese?

Visiting an izakaya offers real-life practice in reading menus, ordering food, and conversing with locals. It’s an immersive way to learn and use practical Japanese. Coto also has some real-life and immersive courses that might help you improve your Japanese skills, such as the Intensive Course. If you like more relaxed and cultural immersion, try the Japanese Language and Cultural Immersion.

Do I need to know Japanese to visit an izakaya?

No, many izakayas have menus with pictures or in English. However, knowing basic phrases and trying to read the Japanese menu can enhance your experience and help you learn the language.

What are some basic Japanese phrases I should know before visiting an izakaya?

• Sumimasen (すみません): Excuse me.
• Arigatou (ありがとう): Thank you.
• Kanpai (乾杯): Cheers.
• Oishii (おいしい): Delicious.
• Eigo no menu ga arimasu ka? (英語のメニューがありますか？): Do you have an English menu?

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are not usually necessary for smaller or chain izakayas, but it can be a good idea for more popular or larger establishments, especially on weekends.

Are there vegetarian options at izakayas?

While izakayas traditionally focus on meat and seafood dishes, many offer vegetarian options like edamame, salads, and grilled vegetables. It’s helpful to know the word for vegetarian (ベジタリアン, bejitarian) and ask the staff.