Izakaya Culture 1

There are many "Izakaya" (Japanese-style bars) in Tokyo where you can enjoy a variety of delicious meals and alcohol. You can make eating and drinking in Tokyo more fun by getting to know Japan's unique bar culture.

Shoebox

• Some Izakaya ban the wearing of shoes inside. In addition, in some Izakaya you can wear your shoes in the entrance, but you must take off your shoes depending on your seat. When you take off your shoes, the staff will tell you where to put them.
• If there is a shoebox with a key, keep hold of your key until you leave the Izakaya.

Touch-panel menus

• In Izakaya with touch-panel menus, you can order from the touch-panel at your seat without having to call staff. You can also check the total bill.
• If the touch-panel is not available in your language, or if you need help to operate it, please call a member of staff.
• Since the touch-panel is rechargeable, put it back in its holder after you finish using it.

Table charge (Otōshi)

• In many Izakaya you will get an initial dish as part of the table charge. In Tokyo, these dishes are usually called "Otōshi."
• The contents and price of Otōshi depend on the Izakaya.

Paying your bill

• If there is a touch-panel, you can ask for the bill by pressing the ‘pay bill’ button. If there is no touch-panel, directly ask a member of staff.
• The place to pay depends on the Izakaya - you may be able to pay at your table or you may need to pay at the cash register.
• Depending on the Izakaya, you may not be able to pay individually.