7 Popular Izakaya in Asakusa You Can Casually Drop By

Asakusa, a historic and vibrant district in Tokyo, is renowned for its traditional atmosphere and plethora of izakayas, which are perfect for casual dining and drinking. Here are 7 popular izakayas in Asakusa that you can easily drop by while sightseeing.

1. Public Tavern Miyuki

Located on Hoppy Street, Public Tavern Miyuki is a well-known spot with only outside seating, offering counter seats and table seats. This izakaya is famous for its affordable and delicious dishes such as Motsuni (innards stew), Beef Stew, Tsukune (chicken meatballs), and Nikujaga (meat and potato stew). You can get a full meal for just under 2,000 yen. The outdoor seating gives it an open-air pub feel, making it a lively and popular spot for both locals and tourists. English menus are available inside.

2. Izakaya Koji – Asakusa Branch

Also situated on Hoppy Street, Izakaya Koji is another favorite among locals and visitors. It features both counter seats and small separate dining rooms called Koagari. The signature dish here is the slow-cooked beef stew, which is soft and flavorful. Other recommended dishes include Ham Katsu (fried ham) and Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). The atmosphere is welcoming, with a mix of outdoor and indoor seating.

3. Asakusa Sho-chan

Asakusa Sho-chan, found on Hoppy Street, is famous for its stew dishes. The beef stew here resembles sukiyaki, with beef, onions, and tofu, and is highly praised for its rich flavor. Another popular dish is the daikon (white radish) stew, which is soft and flavorful. These stews are so popular that patrons often ask for seconds. The prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

4. Suzuyoshi

Suzuyoshi is a popular izakaya where you can enjoy Hoppy, a non-alcoholic beer substitute often mixed with shochu. The signature dish here is the Korean-style beef stew, which is spicy and pairs well with both beer and makgeolli (a Korean alcoholic beverage). This izakaya is a great place to experience a unique blend of Japanese and Korean flavors.

5. Kazu-chan no Mise

Located on Hatune Koji, just off Hoppy Street, Kazu-chan no Mise has the appearance of a traditional Japanese dining restaurant but operates as an izakaya. It offers good drinks at affordable prices, although it closes early at 6:00 PM on weekdays. It's a recommended spot for those who want to start their day with a drink, as it opens from 9:00 AM.

6. Yamaka Shoten

Yamaka Shoten is a unique izakaya in the center of Hoppy Street, known for its lively nightlife. This spot is recommended by locals and features cashless payments and English menus. The business hours are from 10:00 to 23:00, and the budget is approximately 40-50 USD per person. It's an excellent place to fully enjoy Asakusa's nightlife.

7. Sakazukiya Kaduchi

Sakazukiya Kaduchi is an izakaya with a traditional Japanese interior, offering a cozy atmosphere. While it may not be as well-known as some of the other spots on Hoppy Street, it provides a genuine Japanese experience. This izakaya is a great choice for those looking for a more authentic and less crowded environment.

Tips for Visiting Izakayas in Asakusa

• Reservations: Many izakayas are small, so it's recommended to make a reservation in advance. You can use popular gourmet websites like Hot Pepper Gourmet, Tabelog, and Gurunavi to book a table.
• English Support: Some izakayas, especially those catering to tourists, offer English menus. However, it's always helpful to learn basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience.
• Payment and Hours: Check the business hours and payment options before visiting. Some izakayas may have limited hours or specific payment methods.
• Atmosphere: Asakusa's izakayas often have a working-class atmosphere, which is part of their charm. Be prepared for lively and sometimes crowded environments.

By visiting these izakayas, you can experience the authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Asakusa, making your trip to Tokyo even more memorable.