First off, I need to return here at night. It’s much more interesting then. However, I was put off by some of the signs that say “No Pictures”. Except it was on the street!
Much has been written about the Golden Gai and how it represents how Tokyo used to be before it became “modern”, how the misfits and rebels and gaijin hang out here, yadda yadda. Basically, the Golden Gai is a small area packed full of really small bars and alleys that look very “Shitamachi” in “Yamanote”.
The outer edge of the Golden Gai
This is how it looks inside the Golden Gai. In daytime. When everyone’s closed.
Wonder what’s upstairs?
Most, if not all of these bars have a steady clientele that they make their money from and many of these bars are not friendly, or are even hostile to strangers (gaijin, you AND me) who poke their noses into what many consider their private space. Most times you’ll be able to tell how welcome you are by how the mama-san reacts when you open the door. Other times, you can read it on the wall outside.
If you wanna visit, go with a local! Or take Nihongo lessons!!
Gotta save some money, drag some frens with me and drink here next time!!
Musings of a Food and Travel Addict