When traveling to Japan, visiting an izakaya (居酒屋) is one of the best ways to experience local nightlife. These Japanese-style pubs are lively, casual, and full of delicious small dishes and drinks. But for foreign visitors, the izakaya system—menus, customs, and ordering style—can be confusing.

This guide explains the essential etiquette you need to know to enjoy izakaya like a local.

• A casual Japanese pub where people gather after work to drink and share food.

• Menu includes yakitori (grilled skewers), sashimi, karaage (fried chicken), edamame, and hotpot dishes.

• Atmosphere: noisy, fun, relaxed—perfect for groups of friends.

• Seating options: table, counter, or tatami mat rooms.

• Staff usually greet you with “Irasshaimase!” (いらっしゃいませ) = “Welcome!”

• Many izakaya ask for the number in your group. Say: “futari” (二人, two people), “sannin” (三人, three people).

• Shoes: In some traditional izakaya with tatami seating, you’ll remove your shoes.

Most izakaya add a small cover charge called otoshi (お通し).

• Price: usually ¥300–¥500 per person.

• Comes with a small appetizer (edamame, pickled vegetables, or salad).

• It’s not optional—think of it as part of the experience.

• First order drinks: It’s common to start with beer.

• Say “Toriaezu biiru” (とりあえずビール) = “Let’s start with beer.”

• After drinks, order small dishes to share.

• Use the opposite end of chopsticks when taking food from shared plates.

• Wait for everyone’s drink before starting.

• Raise your glass and say “Kanpai!” (乾杯) = “Cheers!”

• Pour drinks for others before refilling your own.

• Yakitori (焼き鳥) – grilled chicken skewers.

• Karaage (唐揚げ) – Japanese fried chicken.

• Sashimi (刺身) – raw fish platter.

• Nabe (鍋) – hotpot, especially in winter.

• Takoyaki (たこ焼き) or other regional snacks in some izakaya.

• Bills are usually settled at the register, not at the table.

• Splitting bills is common in groups. Staff can provide separate totals if asked.

• Tipping is not practiced in Japan.

• Eating before the kanpai toast.

• Refusing the otoshi—it’s not optional.

• Speaking too loudly in small izakaya.

• Using chopsticks incorrectly (pointing, sticking into food).

• Don’t be shy—izakaya are meant to be casual and fun.

• Many izakaya now have English menus, but not all.

• Popular izakaya in Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ueno often require reservations.

• Booking ahead saves time and avoids language barriers.

If you’re nervous about navigating menus or reservations, our booking service can arrange everything in Japanese and provide you with an English confirmation.

Izakaya are at the heart of Japanese nightlife. With a little etiquette, you can enjoy them like a local—sharing food, raising glasses, and making memories.

👉 Contact us if you’d like support booking izakaya in Tokyo with English-friendly communication.