{"id":1379,"date":"2024-03-28T10:15:29","date_gmt":"2024-03-28T01:15:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/?p=1379"},"modified":"2024-03-28T10:54:53","modified_gmt":"2024-03-28T01:54:53","slug":"hostess-bar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/osaka-mania\/hostess-bar\/","title":{"rendered":"For a good time on a budget, head to the snack bar! Laughter, humanity, and a tipsy good time  Six outstanding snack bars to try in Osaka"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Both popular music and enka ballads weave together the joys and sorrows of life, offering a balm for weary souls. <em>What\u2019s Your OSAKAMANIA?<\/em> delves into the charms of Osaka by featuring locals who have something they\u2019re really passionate about. This time, our guide Taka Takaaki, a performer of enka and popular music and the lead vocalist of the band Akainu, takes us around to his favorite snack bars.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image35-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-698\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image35-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image35-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image35-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image35-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image35-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It is said that there are more than 100,000 snack bars in Japan, and Osaka ranks third following Tokyo and Hokkaido in total number of establishments. From bustling downtown areas to quiet alleyways, a variety of bars spiritedly entertain their patrons as day turns to night.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We focused our explorations in relatively accessible neighborhoods, visiting six bars in Umeda, Juso, Senba, Shinsaibashi, and Namba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-guide\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-guide__title\">\uff3cOur Guide\uff0f<\/div>\n  <ul class=\"wpcon-guide__list\">\n    <li class=\"wpcon-guide__list__detail\">\n      <div class=\"wpcon-guide-img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/image33.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n      <div class=\"wpcon-guide-txt\">\n        <div class=\"wpcon-guide-txt__name\">Taka Takaaki<\/div>\n        <div class=\"wpcon-guide-txt__read\">Lead vocalist of 13-member band Akainu, also known as the &#8220;wholesale dealers of entertainment.&#8221; While his primary occupation is live musical performances in the Osaka area, he is also a writer for various magazines and online publications. He formerly worked as a writer and editor for a karaoke magazine and is known for his thorough knowledge of enka and popular music. His hobbies include playing with cats and visiting public baths.<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>01. Arigassama<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Outstanding sake from Amami Oshima and the coziness of home<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image39-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-702\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image39-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image39-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image39-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image39-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image39-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Hey there, everybody. I\u2019m Taka Takaaki, a singer with Akainu, \u201cthe wholesale dealers of entertainment,\u201d as we call ourselves.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the spread of the internet and smartphones, the world these days has become a pretty convenient place. I benefit daily from these conveniences just like everybody else. But when everything can be done through a screen, I find myself wanting to meet people face to face, to chat, have a drink. That\u2019s when I head out into the city in search of a snack bar&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Oh, maybe I should explain. In Japan, a \u201csnack,\u201d or snack bar, is a bar run by a host or hostess, called a \u201cmaster\u201d or \u201cmama,\u201d respectively. Here, you can sing karaoke while you drink, snack, and chat til late with the friendly, knowledgeable mama or master. Regulars often use the \u201cbottle keep\u201d service, where their favorite bottle of liquor is kept for them at the bar!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My first stop is a place southeast of the Umeda area near Ohatsu Tenjin called Arigassama. In business for 20 years as of 2024, the bar is run by Mama Sayumi Uchida, originally from Amami Oshima. She offers her guests warm hospitality and a comfortable space that makes you feel like you\u2019ve come back home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image37-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image37-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image37-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image37-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image37-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image37-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Much of the clientele appears to be businessmen, as there are many office buildings in the area around Osaka station<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Originally having no connection to the world of nightlife, after turning 50, Mama Sayumi took over a friend\u2019s establishment and became the snack bar\u2019s mama and owner.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bar welcomes a lot of customers every night, predominantly businessmen. \u201cI simply provide a place for my guests to have fun,\u201d says Mama Sayumi, humble despite her success. \u201cI hope they enjoy themselves.\u201d The house dishes, prepared fresh daily, are brimming with her sincere desire to delight her customers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A must-try here is the Beni Sango, a brown sugar shochu from Amami Oshima which is hard to come by in Osaka. Its sweet and mellow taste makes it dangerously easy to drink, though one should be cautious as it has a high alcohol content of 40%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mama Sayumi may be a bit shy when speaking to new people, but her warm, graceful personality is sure to soothe you. While you usually need an introduction from a regular to get in, mentioning that you read this article will grant you entry. Be sure to stop in at Arigassama and feel the breeze from Amami the next time you\u2019re looking for a good time in Umeda.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-section-smartslider fitvidsignore  n2_clear\" data-ssid=\"13\"><div id=\"n2-ss-13-align\" class=\"n2-ss-align\"><div class=\"n2-padding\"><div id=\"n2-ss-13\" data-creator=\"Smart Slider 3\" data-responsive=\"auto\" class=\"n2-ss-slider n2-ow n2-has-hover n2notransition  \">\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-outside\" style=\"grid-template-rows:1fr auto\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-inside\">\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-1 n2_ss__touch_element n2-ow\">\n            <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-2 n2-ow\">\n                                                <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-3 n2-ow\">\n\n                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slide-backgrounds n2-ow-all\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"1\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image17-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"2\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image43-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"3\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image30-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"4\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image41-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"5\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image40-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-4 n2-ow\">\n                        <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 1200 800\" data-related-device=\"desktopPortrait\" class=\"n2-ow n2-ss-preserve-size n2-ss-preserve-size--slider n2-ss-slide-limiter\"><\/svg><div data-first=\"1\" data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"34\" data-slide-public-id=\"1\" data-title=\"Mama Sayumi moved from Amami Oshima to Osaka half a century ago. She soothes with her gentle way of speaking.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-34\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Mama Sayumi moved from Amami Oshima to Osaka half a century ago. She soothes with her gentle way of speaking.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-zmGSoLgnWgdW\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"35\" data-slide-public-id=\"2\" data-title=\"The brown sugar shochu Beni Sango, sourced from Mama Sayumi\u2019s hometown of Amami Oshima. \u201cI want to give back to my hometown,\u201d she says, revealing her deep love for the place she grew up. \" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-35\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">The brown sugar shochu Beni Sango, sourced from Mama Sayumi\u2019s hometown of Amami Oshima. \u201cI want to give back to my hometown,\u201d she says, revealing her deep love for the place she grew up. <\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-Fnb8N8eDKGeu\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"36\" data-slide-public-id=\"3\" data-title=\"Drinks are accompanied by housemade bar snacks that Mama skillfully prepares. The menu changes daily. \" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-36\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Drinks are accompanied by housemade bar snacks that Mama skillfully prepares. The menu changes daily. <\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-I5CHsTf7Iz7D\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"37\" data-slide-public-id=\"4\" data-title=\"In the bar visitors will find a guitar and an Okinawan three-stringed sanshin that they\u2019re welcome to pick up and play.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-37\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">In the bar visitors will find a guitar and an Okinawan three-stringed sanshin that they\u2019re welcome to pick up and play.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-5iwP5sMfIhm0\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"38\" data-slide-public-id=\"5\" data-title=\"Mama Sayumi\u2019s homemade sata andagi (fried dough) are made with black sugar from Amami. She gifted some to Taka during his visit. \" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-38\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Mama Sayumi\u2019s homemade sata andagi (fried dough) are made with black sugar from Amami. She gifted some to Taka during his visit. <\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-mlLyaAXCtsS5\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-left-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-previous  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-13-arrow-previous\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"previous arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMzIiIGhlaWdodD0iMzIiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAzMiAzMiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMS40MzMgMTUuOTkyTDIyLjY5IDUuNzEyYy4zOTMtLjM5LjM5My0xLjAzIDAtMS40Mi0uMzkzLS4zOS0xLjAzLS4zOS0xLjQyMyAwbC0xMS45OCAxMC45NGMtLjIxLjIxLS4zLjQ5LS4yODUuNzYtLjAxNS4yOC4wNzUuNTYuMjg0Ljc3bDExLjk4IDEwLjk0Yy4zOTMuMzkgMS4wMy4zOSAxLjQyNCAwIC4zOTMtLjQuMzkzLTEuMDMgMC0xLjQybC0xMS4yNTctMTAuMjkiCiAgICAgICAgICBmaWxsPSIjZmZmZmZmIiBvcGFjaXR5PSIwLjgiIGZpbGwtcnVsZT0iZXZlbm9kZCIvPgo8L3N2Zz4=\" alt=\"previous arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-right-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-next  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-13-arrow-next\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"next arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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\" alt=\"next arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-center-bottom\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:10px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget n2-ss-control-bullet n2-ow-all n2-ss-control-bullet-horizontal\"><div class=\" nextend-bullet-bar n2-bar-justify-content-center\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Choose slide to display.\"><div class=\"n2-bullet n2-style-785355f374be86c332d4665aae819858-dot \" style=\"visibility:hidden;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-below\"><div class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-bar nextend-bar-horizontal n2-ss-widget-hidden n2-ow-all\" style=\"text-align: left;width:100%;\"><div class=\"n2-style-c371bed12e94c3d9e638bf8bdeb281dd-simple \"><span class=\"n2-font-86860a54b7064aeda4451b2de9b363f3-simple \">&nbsp;<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><ss3-loader><\/ss3-loader><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2_clear\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image19-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-676\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image19-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image19-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image19-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image19-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image19-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u201cArigassamaryota\u201d means \u201cthank you\u201d in the Amami dialect. Mama Sayumi sees us off as we leave Umeda.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-line\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp left\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image33-4-1-e1710947751323.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__txt\"><span>During our interview, we were served dishes like mozuku seaweed pickled in homemade plum vinegar and soybeans from Shodoshima in soy sauce. Each was incredibly delicious, and they really made the drinks go down smoothly!<\/span><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-course\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-course__container\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image9-5.jpg\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__title\">Arigassama<\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__address\">Address: 2-5-22 Sonezaki, Kita-ku, Osaka, Nippo Patio Sonezaki 3F \n<\/div>\n<a class=\"wpcon-course__gmap\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/X8kBmo8nfM14GXGt5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google map<\/a>\n    <p class=\"wpcon-course__read\">Business hours: 6:00 p.m. &#8211; 12:00 a.m.<\/br>Closed: Sundays and public holidays<\/br>\nPhone Number: (+81) 6-6361-8878<\/br>\nPrice: 5,000yen for all-you-can-drink + all-you-can-sing, bottle keep 4,000yen\n<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>02. Pico Pico Nord<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A longstanding spot imbued with love for music, plus musical accompaniment from a Juso legend<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image34-4-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-697\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image34-4-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image34-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image34-4-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image34-4-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image34-4.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I take a Hankyu train and get off at Juso. As I make my way to the bar, my path leads me to the glowing neon lights of the entertainment district.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I arrive at my second destination, Pico Pico Nord. Back when the live music venue Fandango\u2014where I still perform\u2014was located in Juso, I passed by this place countless times. I never knew it was a snack bar. It\u2019s a shock to realize it now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image12-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-666\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image12-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image12-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image12-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image12-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image12-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The spacious bar has undergone two renovations since opening. It excels in its commitment to sound quality, with five speakers installed throughout the space.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The bar\u2019s owner, Michio Takeda, is an astonishing 83 years old! Inspired by his older brother, he realized his love for music in middle school and taught himself to play several instruments. In the 1960s, he made a career of playing in bands around Hawaii. He opened Pico Pico Nord at the age of 30 and has witnessed Juso change through the years, making him something of a walking encyclopedia of the neighborhood.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What\u2019s so special about Mr. Takeda\u2019s establishment is that patrons can sing karaoke with live musical accompaniment. The bar is equipped with musical instruments like an upright piano, drums, and a ukelele, and Mr. Takeda plays along while guests sing. I seized the opportunity to sing \u201cAnata wo Kudokitai\u201d (\u201cI Want to Woo You\u201d) by Yutaka Akibawa and the Alona Nights, one of my favorite songs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image16-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-671\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image16-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image16-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image16-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image16-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image16-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The live accompaniment effortlessly harmonizes with whichever song you choose.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mr. Takeda generates a powerful groove on the drums, and singing along gives you the thrill of performing live on stage. It feels truly great, and the drinks keep on coming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Curious to hear Mr. Takeda sing, I request a song from his Hawaiian days. When he sings, everyone in the bar is amazed by the youthfulness of his voice. He accompanies himself on the piano, performing with a contagious energy that belies his age.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-section-smartslider fitvidsignore  n2_clear\" data-ssid=\"14\"><div id=\"n2-ss-14-align\" class=\"n2-ss-align\"><div class=\"n2-padding\"><div id=\"n2-ss-14\" data-creator=\"Smart Slider 3\" data-responsive=\"auto\" class=\"n2-ss-slider n2-ow n2-has-hover n2notransition  \">\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-outside\" style=\"grid-template-rows:1fr auto\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-inside\">\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-1 n2_ss__touch_element n2-ow\">\n            <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-2 n2-ow\">\n                                                <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-3 n2-ow\">\n\n                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slide-backgrounds n2-ow-all\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"1\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image21-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"2\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image20-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"3\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image10-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"4\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image26-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"5\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image6-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-4 n2-ow\">\n                        <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 1200 800\" data-related-device=\"desktopPortrait\" class=\"n2-ow n2-ss-preserve-size n2-ss-preserve-size--slider n2-ss-slide-limiter\"><\/svg><div data-first=\"1\" data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"39\" data-slide-public-id=\"1\" data-title=\"The basic fee is 4,400yen for all-you-can-drink plus 200yen per karaoke song, but patrons can also negotiate depending on their budget. Besides pre-packaged treats, the bar also offers miso soup and bar snacks. \" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-39\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">The basic fee is 4,400yen for all-you-can-drink plus 200yen per karaoke song, but patrons can also negotiate depending on their budget. Besides pre-packaged treats, the bar also offers miso soup and bar snacks. <\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-eSHAjgZ8cl51\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"40\" data-slide-public-id=\"2\" data-title=\"A key figure in the community, Mr. Takeda has been watching over Juso for many years. Until recently, he served as president of the neighborhood association.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-40\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">A key figure in the community, Mr. Takeda has been watching over Juso for many years. Until recently, he served as president of the neighborhood association.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-OTSfE4ifaLN8\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"41\" data-slide-public-id=\"3\" data-title=\"Mr. Takeda in his younger days, about 60 years ago. So handsome!\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-41\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Mr. Takeda in his younger days, about 60 years ago. So handsome!<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-OorP0lV5XJLF\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"42\" data-slide-public-id=\"4\" data-title=\"A drum performance to accompany Taka\u2019s singing. His rhythms give energy to the vocals. \" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-42\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">A drum performance to accompany Taka\u2019s singing. His rhythms give energy to the vocals. <\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-1igv7TortYT8\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"43\" data-slide-public-id=\"5\" data-title=\"\u201cEven though I\u2019m 83, singing here makes me feel like I\u2019m 38 again,\u201d says Mr. Takeda. His ukelele skills are impressive too!\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-43\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">\u201cEven though I\u2019m 83, singing here makes me feel like I\u2019m 38 again,\u201d says Mr. Takeda. His ukelele skills are impressive too!<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-kcwCLw5c025D\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-left-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-previous  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-14-arrow-previous\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"previous arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMzIiIGhlaWdodD0iMzIiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAzMiAzMiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMS40MzMgMTUuOTkyTDIyLjY5IDUuNzEyYy4zOTMtLjM5LjM5My0xLjAzIDAtMS40Mi0uMzkzLS4zOS0xLjAzLS4zOS0xLjQyMyAwbC0xMS45OCAxMC45NGMtLjIxLjIxLS4zLjQ5LS4yODUuNzYtLjAxNS4yOC4wNzUuNTYuMjg0Ljc3bDExLjk4IDEwLjk0Yy4zOTMuMzkgMS4wMy4zOSAxLjQyNCAwIC4zOTMtLjQuMzkzLTEuMDMgMC0xLjQybC0xMS4yNTctMTAuMjkiCiAgICAgICAgICBmaWxsPSIjZmZmZmZmIiBvcGFjaXR5PSIwLjgiIGZpbGwtcnVsZT0iZXZlbm9kZCIvPgo8L3N2Zz4=\" alt=\"previous arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-right-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-next  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-14-arrow-next\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"next arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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\" alt=\"next arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-center-bottom\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:10px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget n2-ss-control-bullet n2-ow-all n2-ss-control-bullet-horizontal\"><div class=\" nextend-bullet-bar n2-bar-justify-content-center\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Choose slide to display.\"><div class=\"n2-bullet n2-style-785355f374be86c332d4665aae819858-dot \" style=\"visibility:hidden;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-below\"><div class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-bar nextend-bar-horizontal n2-ss-widget-hidden n2-ow-all\" style=\"text-align: left;width:100%;\"><div class=\"n2-style-c371bed12e94c3d9e638bf8bdeb281dd-simple \"><span class=\"n2-font-86860a54b7064aeda4451b2de9b363f3-simple \">&nbsp;<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><ss3-loader><\/ss3-loader><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2_clear\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image24-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image24-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image24-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image24-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image24-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image24-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">\u201cThank you! Hope you\u2019ll visit again.\u201d Mr. Takeda sees us off. We will definitely be back!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-line\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp left\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image33-4-1-e1710947751323.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__txt\"><span>The bar\u2019s curious name was originally just Nord (meaning \u201cnorth\u201d in several Scandinavian languages). It was inspired by Mr. Takeda\u2019s former boss, Mr. Kitano (\u201cMr. North\u201d), during his time as a salaried employee. Pico Pico was added at the suggestion of a former part-time staff member who wanted to give the name a little extra charm.<\/span><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-course\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-course__container\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image22-4.jpg\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__title\">Pico Pico Nord<\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__address\">Address: 1-14-20 Juso-Hommachi, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka \n<\/div>\n<a class=\"wpcon-course__gmap\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ttxFit4hLWJ2pCFh6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google map<\/a>\n    <p class=\"wpcon-course__read\">Business hours: 7:00 p.m. \u2013 12:00 a.m.<\/br>Closed: Sundays<\/br>\nPhone Number: (+81) 6-6309-3364<\/br>\nPrice: 4,400yen for all-you-can-drink, 200yen per karaoke song (negotiable based on budget), bottle keep starting from 3,000yen\n<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong> <strong>03. <\/strong>Yosuca<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A secret hideaway emerges every evening in Senba<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image2-7-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-627\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image2-7-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image2-7-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image2-7-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image2-7-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image2-7.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I move from north to south, arriving in Minami-Senba where my next bar is located. Lured by the neon lights of Senba Alley shining through an opening off the street, I venture down a narrow alleyway. I gradually feel cut off from the outside world as I walk toward the building\u2019s entrance in the dim light. There\u2019s an exciting feeling that I am crossing into another universe.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Situated at the top of a red carpeted staircase, snack bar Yosuca is furnished with a counter and spacious lounge seating, a truly fitting atmosphere for an adult\u2019s hideaway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image32-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-693\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image32-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image32-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image32-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image32-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image32-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Yosuca is a sister bar to the popular snack bars Sekumeto II in Tokyo&#8217;s Shibuya and Gion Sekumeto in Kyoto&#8217;s Gion. This membership-based bar was opened two years ago by Ai Takahashi, the mama of &#8220;Gion Sekumeto.&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the place looks upscale, the pricing is quite casual, with a cover charge of 1,000yen and drinks starting from 700yen. Thirsty, I indulged in a Kinmiya vodka sour and found it so delightful that I couldn&#8217;t help but order another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bar reflects Mama Ai\u2019s aesthetic sense. The interior is outfitted entirely in the same red as the staircase and features a counter decorated with washi paper crafted by the washi artisan Wataru Hatano. Displayed above the lounge seating is a collection of prints from Osaka&#8217;s ukiyo-e specialty store Nishitenma Takei.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The clientele is characterized by its diversity, comprising a myriad of age groups and occupations, from seasoned snackers to apparel shop staff, hairdressers, and creators. It\u2019s the perfect spot for those new to snack bars who enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds. Since it operates on a membership basis, an introduction from a trusted patron is required to visit.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-section-smartslider fitvidsignore  n2_clear\" data-ssid=\"15\"><div id=\"n2-ss-15-align\" class=\"n2-ss-align\"><div class=\"n2-padding\"><div id=\"n2-ss-15\" data-creator=\"Smart Slider 3\" data-responsive=\"auto\" class=\"n2-ss-slider n2-ow n2-has-hover n2notransition  \">\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-outside\" style=\"grid-template-rows:1fr auto\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-inside\">\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-1 n2_ss__touch_element n2-ow\">\n            <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-2 n2-ow\">\n                                                <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-3 n2-ow\">\n\n                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slide-backgrounds n2-ow-all\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"1\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image44-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"2\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image5-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"3\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image47-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"4\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image29-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-4 n2-ow\">\n                        <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 1200 800\" data-related-device=\"desktopPortrait\" class=\"n2-ow n2-ss-preserve-size n2-ss-preserve-size--slider n2-ss-slide-limiter\"><\/svg><div data-first=\"1\" data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"44\" data-slide-public-id=\"1\" data-title=\"The day of our visit was Mama Ai\u2019s weekly kimono day. Paired with her traditional hairstyle, her dignified aura makes a striking impression.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-44\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">The day of our visit was Mama Ai\u2019s weekly kimono day. Paired with her traditional hairstyle, her dignified aura makes a striking impression.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-LZdpP0yxANnB\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"45\" data-slide-public-id=\"2\" data-title=\"Possibly an effect of the stylish space, even the vodka sours made by Mama Ai exude an air of luxury.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-45\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Possibly an effect of the stylish space, even the vodka sours made by Mama Ai exude an air of luxury.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-0hr2CNHiGoUZ\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"46\" data-slide-public-id=\"3\" data-title=\"The chic lounge seating looks like something from a film scene.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-46\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">The chic lounge seating looks like something from a film scene.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-Rc01eIAAbzvi\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"47\" data-slide-public-id=\"4\" data-title=\"An ukiyo-e print of a water vendor, selected for its association with the world of nightlife.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-47\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">An ukiyo-e print of a water vendor, selected for its association with the world of nightlife.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-E0x7OfhpK2TB\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-left-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-previous  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-15-arrow-previous\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"previous arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMzIiIGhlaWdodD0iMzIiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAzMiAzMiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMS40MzMgMTUuOTkyTDIyLjY5IDUuNzEyYy4zOTMtLjM5LjM5My0xLjAzIDAtMS40Mi0uMzkzLS4zOS0xLjAzLS4zOS0xLjQyMyAwbC0xMS45OCAxMC45NGMtLjIxLjIxLS4zLjQ5LS4yODUuNzYtLjAxNS4yOC4wNzUuNTYuMjg0Ljc3bDExLjk4IDEwLjk0Yy4zOTMuMzkgMS4wMy4zOSAxLjQyNCAwIC4zOTMtLjQuMzkzLTEuMDMgMC0xLjQybC0xMS4yNTctMTAuMjkiCiAgICAgICAgICBmaWxsPSIjZmZmZmZmIiBvcGFjaXR5PSIwLjgiIGZpbGwtcnVsZT0iZXZlbm9kZCIvPgo8L3N2Zz4=\" alt=\"previous arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-right-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-next  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-15-arrow-next\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"next arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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\" alt=\"next arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-center-bottom\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:10px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget n2-ss-control-bullet n2-ow-all n2-ss-control-bullet-horizontal\"><div class=\" nextend-bullet-bar n2-bar-justify-content-center\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Choose slide to display.\"><div class=\"n2-bullet n2-style-785355f374be86c332d4665aae819858-dot \" style=\"visibility:hidden;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-below\"><div class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-bar nextend-bar-horizontal n2-ss-widget-hidden n2-ow-all\" style=\"text-align: left;width:100%;\"><div class=\"n2-style-c371bed12e94c3d9e638bf8bdeb281dd-simple \"><span class=\"n2-font-86860a54b7064aeda4451b2de9b363f3-simple \">&nbsp;<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><ss3-loader><\/ss3-loader><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2_clear\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image7-5-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-654\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image7-5-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image7-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image7-5-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image7-5-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image7-5.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A smiling farewell from Mama Ai. After a dreamlike moment, we return to the outer world\u2026<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-line\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp left\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image33-4-1-e1710947751323.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__txt\"><span>On Mama Ai\u2019s Instagram account, besides information about the bar you\u2019ll also find photos of her incredibly stylish Japanese and Western outfits. Check it out via the Yosuca (\u3088\u3059\u304b) Instagram account. \n<\/span><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-course\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-course__container\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image3-6.jpg\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__title\">Yosuca<\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__address\">Address: 4-10-4-10-22 Minami-Senba, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Senba Back Alley 2nd Floor \n<\/div>\n<a class=\"wpcon-course__gmap\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/5b4nGr4SDe4t5cUc7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google map<\/a>\n    <p class=\"wpcon-course__read\">Business hours: 8:00 p.m. \u2013 Late<\/br>Closed: Irregular<\/br>\nPhone Number: Not Published<\/br>\nPrice: Cover charge 1,000yen, drinks from 700yen, bottle keep from 4,000yen, all-you-can-sing Karaoke\n<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/yosuca_minamisemba\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Instagram<\/a>\n<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A one-of-a-kind lineup! New wave snack bars to check out in Minami<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>04. stand pipipi!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A new type of stand-and-drink karaoke where enthusiastic toasts come one after another<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image23-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image23-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image23-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image23-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image23-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image23-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not uncommon for people to feel uneasy about snack bars because of their often unclear pricing. If this is you, I recommend stand pipipi! for your snack bar initiation, with its bubblegum pink interior and stand-and-drink style karaoke. The straightforward pricing consists of a cover charge of 500yen, all-you-can-sing karaoke, drinks priced uniformly at 500yen each, and even unlimited snacks, making it an ideal stage for a beginner\u2019s snack bar debut. The cheerful hospitality of owner Kaho-chan is sure to gently melt away any nervousness you might have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bar provides a warm welcome to first time visitors and a homey atmosphere that makes it easy to get along with other patrons. This is a great spot for those who want a lighthearted evening of singing and drinking.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-section-smartslider fitvidsignore  n2_clear\" data-ssid=\"16\"><div id=\"n2-ss-16-align\" class=\"n2-ss-align\"><div class=\"n2-padding\"><div id=\"n2-ss-16\" data-creator=\"Smart Slider 3\" data-responsive=\"auto\" class=\"n2-ss-slider n2-ow n2-has-hover n2notransition  \">\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-outside\" style=\"grid-template-rows:1fr auto\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-inside\">\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-1 n2_ss__touch_element n2-ow\">\n            <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-2 n2-ow\">\n                                                <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-3 n2-ow\">\n\n                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slide-backgrounds n2-ow-all\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"1\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image11-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"2\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image8-5.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"3\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image36-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"4\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image13-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-4 n2-ow\">\n                        <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 1200 800\" data-related-device=\"desktopPortrait\" class=\"n2-ow n2-ss-preserve-size n2-ss-preserve-size--slider n2-ss-slide-limiter\"><\/svg><div data-first=\"1\" data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"48\" data-slide-public-id=\"1\" data-title=\"Every visitor gets a spin at the wheel. The top prize buys you an evening free of charge!\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-48\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Every visitor gets a spin at the wheel. The top prize buys you an evening free of charge!<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-Tq4bg3Y4fr04\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"49\" data-slide-public-id=\"2\" data-title=\"Get 11 drinks for \u00a55,000 with the drink ticket, akin to a coffee punch card\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-49\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Get 11 drinks for \u00a55,000 with the drink ticket, akin to a coffee punch card<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-kS03hWIgxo9p\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"50\" data-slide-public-id=\"3\" data-title=\"Even a white microphone has a sexy glow under the pink neon\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-50\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Even a white microphone has a sexy glow under the pink neon<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-w3Esgn73S1Tp\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"51\" data-slide-public-id=\"4\" data-title=\"Generous hospitality where the candy basket fills back up as soon as its emptied\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-51\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Generous hospitality where the candy basket fills back up as soon as its emptied<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-UuDmbPyMwsdC\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-left-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-previous  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-16-arrow-previous\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"previous arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMzIiIGhlaWdodD0iMzIiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAzMiAzMiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMS40MzMgMTUuOTkyTDIyLjY5IDUuNzEyYy4zOTMtLjM5LjM5My0xLjAzIDAtMS40Mi0uMzkzLS4zOS0xLjAzLS4zOS0xLjQyMyAwbC0xMS45OCAxMC45NGMtLjIxLjIxLS4zLjQ5LS4yODUuNzYtLjAxNS4yOC4wNzUuNTYuMjg0Ljc3bDExLjk4IDEwLjk0Yy4zOTMuMzkgMS4wMy4zOSAxLjQyNCAwIC4zOTMtLjQuMzkzLTEuMDMgMC0xLjQybC0xMS4yNTctMTAuMjkiCiAgICAgICAgICBmaWxsPSIjZmZmZmZmIiBvcGFjaXR5PSIwLjgiIGZpbGwtcnVsZT0iZXZlbm9kZCIvPgo8L3N2Zz4=\" alt=\"previous arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-right-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-next  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-16-arrow-next\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"next arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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\" alt=\"next arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-center-bottom\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:10px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget n2-ss-control-bullet n2-ow-all n2-ss-control-bullet-horizontal\"><div class=\" nextend-bullet-bar n2-bar-justify-content-center\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Choose slide to display.\"><div class=\"n2-bullet n2-style-785355f374be86c332d4665aae819858-dot \" style=\"visibility:hidden;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-below\"><div class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-bar nextend-bar-horizontal n2-ss-widget-hidden n2-ow-all\" style=\"text-align: left;width:100%;\"><div class=\"n2-style-c371bed12e94c3d9e638bf8bdeb281dd-simple \"><span class=\"n2-font-86860a54b7064aeda4451b2de9b363f3-simple \">&nbsp;<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><ss3-loader><\/ss3-loader><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2_clear\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-line\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp left\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image33-4-1-e1710947751323.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__txt\"><span>Don\u2019t let the pink neon scare you off\u2014this place is packed night after night. What\u2019s more, the 500yen across-the-board pricing is fantastic. A must-visit for first timers!\n<\/span><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-course\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-course__container\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image42-3.jpg\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__title\">stand pipipi!<\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__address\">Address: 1-6-8 Sennichimae, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Matoba Building 3F \n<\/div>\n<a class=\"wpcon-course__gmap\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/JEdT5EWPcdeqBCwb8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google map<\/a>\n    <p class=\"wpcon-course__read\">Business hours: 8:00 p.m. &#8211; 3:00 a.m.<\/br>Closed: Irregular<\/br>\nPhone Number: None<\/br>\nPrice: Cover charge 500yen, all drinks 500yen\n<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>05. Snack Bar Paako<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get into the groove with a singing, drinking mama!<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image46-4-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-710\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image46-4-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image46-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image46-4-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image46-4-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image46-4.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, allow me to introduce you to Snack Bar Paako, located in Soemon-cho, the backdrop of a number of popular songs. This bar was a popular spot in the Sakamachi area until last year, relocating following the mama&#8217;s decision to become independent. Experts in neighborhood nightlife gather here, from young people to salarymen. It\u2019s an easy place for first-timers to fit in, and husky-voiced Mama Paako welcomes patrons with a hearty \u201cIrasshai!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re lucky, you\u2019ll wind up in the bar on one of the days when Paako-san sings Ayumi Hamasaki and Kumi Koda songs. She sings her heart out, with a voice that sounds just like the real deal. The bar\u2019s prices are reasonable, and it\u2019s also a great spot to sing some karaoke.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-section-smartslider fitvidsignore  n2_clear\" data-ssid=\"17\"><div id=\"n2-ss-17-align\" class=\"n2-ss-align\"><div class=\"n2-padding\"><div id=\"n2-ss-17\" data-creator=\"Smart Slider 3\" data-responsive=\"auto\" class=\"n2-ss-slider n2-ow n2-has-hover n2notransition  \">\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-outside\" style=\"grid-template-rows:1fr auto\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-inside\">\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-1 n2_ss__touch_element n2-ow\">\n            <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-2 n2-ow\">\n                                                <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-3 n2-ow\">\n\n                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slide-backgrounds n2-ow-all\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"1\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image28-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"2\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image14-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"3\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image4-6.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-4 n2-ow\">\n                        <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 1200 800\" data-related-device=\"desktopPortrait\" class=\"n2-ow n2-ss-preserve-size n2-ss-preserve-size--slider n2-ss-slide-limiter\"><\/svg><div data-first=\"1\" data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"52\" data-slide-public-id=\"1\" data-title=\"Paako-san\u2019s specialties are Ayumi Hamasaki and Kumi Koda. On the best days, her passionate singing fills the bar.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-52\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Paako-san\u2019s specialties are Ayumi Hamasaki and Kumi Koda. On the best days, her passionate singing fills the bar.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-U0scYamHl4w6\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"53\" data-slide-public-id=\"2\" data-title=\"As for food, there are only pre-packaged snacks, so it\u2019s okay to bring your own.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-53\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">As for food, there are only pre-packaged snacks, so it\u2019s okay to bring your own.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-EImKkb1r1pPF\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"54\" data-slide-public-id=\"3\" data-title=\"Bookshelves lined with Paako-san\u2019s manga collection. If you get along, she may let you borrow them.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-54\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Bookshelves lined with Paako-san\u2019s manga collection. If you get along, she may let you borrow them.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-7KmH7f2wzExp\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-left-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-previous  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-17-arrow-previous\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"previous arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMzIiIGhlaWdodD0iMzIiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAzMiAzMiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMS40MzMgMTUuOTkyTDIyLjY5IDUuNzEyYy4zOTMtLjM5LjM5My0xLjAzIDAtMS40Mi0uMzkzLS4zOS0xLjAzLS4zOS0xLjQyMyAwbC0xMS45OCAxMC45NGMtLjIxLjIxLS4zLjQ5LS4yODUuNzYtLjAxNS4yOC4wNzUuNTYuMjg0Ljc3bDExLjk4IDEwLjk0Yy4zOTMuMzkgMS4wMy4zOSAxLjQyNCAwIC4zOTMtLjQuMzkzLTEuMDMgMC0xLjQybC0xMS4yNTctMTAuMjkiCiAgICAgICAgICBmaWxsPSIjZmZmZmZmIiBvcGFjaXR5PSIwLjgiIGZpbGwtcnVsZT0iZXZlbm9kZCIvPgo8L3N2Zz4=\" alt=\"previous arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-right-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-next  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-17-arrow-next\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"next arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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\" alt=\"next arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-center-bottom\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:10px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget n2-ss-control-bullet n2-ow-all n2-ss-control-bullet-horizontal\"><div class=\" nextend-bullet-bar n2-bar-justify-content-center\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Choose slide to display.\"><div class=\"n2-bullet n2-style-785355f374be86c332d4665aae819858-dot \" style=\"visibility:hidden;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-below\"><div class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-bar nextend-bar-horizontal n2-ss-widget-hidden n2-ow-all\" style=\"text-align: left;width:100%;\"><div class=\"n2-style-c371bed12e94c3d9e638bf8bdeb281dd-simple \"><span class=\"n2-font-86860a54b7064aeda4451b2de9b363f3-simple \">&nbsp;<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><ss3-loader><\/ss3-loader><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2_clear\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image31-3-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-691\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image31-3-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image31-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image31-3-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image31-3-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image31-3.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The entry is marked with the charming logo, which Paako-san says was made on a whim with some glue while she was drinking<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-line\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp left\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image33-4-1-e1710947751323.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__txt\"><span>Although it\u2019s not as hard as Kitashinchi, Soemon-cho has high hurdles for beginners, so the reasonable pricing here comes as a welcome relief. With all the manga around, you\u2019ll relax like you would at a friend\u2019s house.\n<\/span><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-course\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-course__container\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image25-3.jpg\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__title\">Snack Bar Paako<\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__address\">Address: 2-31 Soemon-cho, Chuo-ku, Osaka, 4F\n<\/div>\n<a class=\"wpcon-course__gmap\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/EYFQd6GqoSMddD4j9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google map<\/a>\n    <p class=\"wpcon-course__read\">Business hours: 11:00 p.m. \u2013 until morale breaks<\/br>Closed: Irregular<\/br>\nPhone Number: None<\/br>\nPrice: 1,000yen, drinks from 700yen, bottle keep negotiable\n<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>06. Curry GAGA<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Japan\u2019s first? A members-only curry snack bar hidden in America-mura<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image45-4-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image45-4-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image45-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image45-4-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image45-4-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image45-4.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The last spot I want to introduce is Curry Gaga, a members-only curry snack bar in Amerikamura. I imagine this concept might raise some eyebrows, but this is literally, as the name indicates, a bar where you can eat curry. That being said, there\u2019s more than just curry on the menu. Offerings are on par with what you\u2019d find at an izakaya, and everything is top notch. The popularity of the place is such that it&#8217;s a full house every day, no doubt helped by the character of owner Gaga-san. Of course, being a snack bar, there\u2019s also karaoke!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The address of the shop is not publicly disclosed, and it operates on a strictly members-only basis. Admission is either through a friend&#8217;s introduction or by becoming acquainted with Gaga-san out and about in the city. Once you meet one of these criteria, you can step into the establishment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image27-4-1024x684.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-685\" srcset=\"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image27-4-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image27-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image27-4-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image27-4-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image27-4.jpg 1999w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Here\u2019s Gaga-san, the owner. If you\u2019re lucky enough to meet him on the street, he might grant you membership.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-section-smartslider fitvidsignore  n2_clear\" data-ssid=\"18\"><div id=\"n2-ss-18-align\" class=\"n2-ss-align\"><div class=\"n2-padding\"><div id=\"n2-ss-18\" data-creator=\"Smart Slider 3\" data-responsive=\"auto\" class=\"n2-ss-slider n2-ow n2-has-hover n2notransition  \">\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-outside\" style=\"grid-template-rows:1fr auto\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-wrapper-inside\">\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-1 n2_ss__touch_element n2-ow\">\n            <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-2 n2-ow\">\n                                                <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-3 n2-ow\">\n\n                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slide-backgrounds n2-ow-all\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"1\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image38-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background\" data-public-id=\"2\" data-mode=\"fill\"><div class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-image\" data-blur=\"0\" data-opacity=\"100\" data-x=\"50\" data-y=\"50\" data-alt=\"\" data-title=\"\"><picture class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image1-8.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\"><\/picture><\/div><div data-color=\"RGBA(255,255,255,0)\" style=\"background-color: RGBA(255,255,255,0);\" class=\"n2-ss-slide-background-color\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-4 n2-ow\">\n                        <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 1200 800\" data-related-device=\"desktopPortrait\" class=\"n2-ow n2-ss-preserve-size n2-ss-preserve-size--slider n2-ss-slide-limiter\"><\/svg><div data-first=\"1\" data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"55\" data-slide-public-id=\"1\" data-title=\"The chicken in the Pakistani curry is stewed in oil until tender. It comes at \u00a51,000 a plate.\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-55\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">The chicken in the Pakistani curry is stewed in oil until tender. It comes at \u00a51,000 a plate.<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-YLhTm8WCOiUw\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div data-slide-duration=\"0\" data-id=\"56\" data-slide-public-id=\"2\" data-title=\"Stir-fried bean sprouts reminiscent of Szechuan dan dan noodles, a popular menu item\" class=\"n2-ss-slide n2-ow  n2-ss-slide-56\"><div role=\"note\" class=\"n2-ss-slide--focus\" tabindex=\"-1\">Stir-fried bean sprouts reminiscent of Szechuan dan dan noodles, a popular menu item<\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-layers-container n2-ss-slide-limiter n2-ow\"><div class=\"n2-ss-layer n2-ow n-uc-2AMfAvDhsm83\" data-sstype=\"slide\" data-pm=\"default\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>                    <\/div>\n\n                                    <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-left-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-previous  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-18-arrow-previous\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"previous arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMzIiIGhlaWdodD0iMzIiIHZpZXdCb3g9IjAgMCAzMiAzMiIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj4KICAgIDxwYXRoIGQ9Ik0xMS40MzMgMTUuOTkyTDIyLjY5IDUuNzEyYy4zOTMtLjM5LjM5My0xLjAzIDAtMS40Mi0uMzkzLS4zOS0xLjAzLS4zOS0xLjQyMyAwbC0xMS45OCAxMC45NGMtLjIxLjIxLS4zLjQ5LS4yODUuNzYtLjAxNS4yOC4wNzUuNTYuMjg0Ljc3bDExLjk4IDEwLjk0Yy4zOTMuMzkgMS4wMy4zOSAxLjQyNCAwIC4zOTMtLjQuMzkzLTEuMDMgMC0xLjQybC0xMS4yNTctMTAuMjkiCiAgICAgICAgICBmaWxsPSIjZmZmZmZmIiBvcGFjaXR5PSIwLjgiIGZpbGwtcnVsZT0iZXZlbm9kZCIvPgo8L3N2Zz4=\" alt=\"previous arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-right-center\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:15px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-arrow n2-ow-all nextend-arrow-next  nextend-arrow-animated-fade\" data-hide-mobileportrait=\"1\" id=\"n2-ss-18-arrow-next\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"next arrow\" tabindex=\"0\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" class=\"skip-lazy\" data-skip-lazy=\"1\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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\" alt=\"next arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-absolute-center-bottom\"><div style=\"--widget-offset:10px;\" class=\"n2-ss-widget n2-ss-control-bullet n2-ow-all n2-ss-control-bullet-horizontal\"><div class=\" nextend-bullet-bar n2-bar-justify-content-center\" role=\"group\" aria-label=\"Choose slide to display.\"><div class=\"n2-bullet n2-style-785355f374be86c332d4665aae819858-dot \" style=\"visibility:hidden;\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2-ss-slider-controls n2-ss-slider-controls-below\"><div class=\"n2-ss-widget nextend-bar nextend-bar-horizontal n2-ss-widget-hidden n2-ow-all\" style=\"text-align: left;width:100%;\"><div class=\"n2-style-c371bed12e94c3d9e638bf8bdeb281dd-simple \"><span class=\"n2-font-86860a54b7064aeda4451b2de9b363f3-simple \">&nbsp;<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><ss3-loader><\/ss3-loader><\/div><\/div><div class=\"n2_clear\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-line\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp left\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image33-4-1-e1710947751323.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-line-comp__txt\"><span>A place that fills both your stomach and heart, this is truly a model snack bar. I often end up eating junk food late at night, so it\u2019s great to have a spot with a menu that includes a variety of vegetables and fruits!\n<\/span><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-course\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-course__container\">\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__img\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/local_journey\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/image18-4.jpg\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"wpcon-course__title\">Curry GAGA<\/div>\n    <p class=\"wpcon-course__read\">Address: Not Public\n<\/br>Business hours: 8:00 p.m.-3:00 a.m. (Fridays &#038; Saturdays from 7:00 p.m.) \n<\/br>Closed: Monday<\/br>\nPhone Number: None<\/br>\n<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Want to talk, drink, sing? If you\u2019re in need of some company, head straight to a snack bar!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve shared with you six snack bars in Osaka that I think are worth a visit. Lately I\u2019ve noticed a resurgence of interest in old-fashioned establishments like local Chinese eateries, public baths, and classic coffee shops, affirming to me once again the timeless need for face-to-face interaction. Snack bars are indispensable places to take a breather from our systematic world. I\u2019m sure they\u2019ll keep on providing drinks and solace to their patrons. Especially here in Osaka, a city known for its laughter and humanity, you\u2019re sure to enjoy rich connections with others. A host of singular mamas and masters are waiting to welcome you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wpcon-info\">\n  <div class=\"wpcon-info__title\">credit<\/div>\n  <div class=\"wpcon-info__body\">\n    <dl> <dt>Text<\/dt>\n      <dd>Takaaki Ito<\/dd>\n    <\/dl>\n    <dl> <dt>Photo<\/dt>\n      <dd>Nayaroman<\/dd>\n    <\/dl>\n    <dl> <dt>Edit<\/dt>\n      <dd>Nayaroman(NINGEN, inc. Editorial department)<\/dd>\n    <\/dl>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Information presented here is current as of 2024. Please check the websites of the individual shops and facilities for up-to-date information on business hours.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Both popular music and enka ballads weave together the joys and sorrows of life, offering a balm for weary souls. What\u2019s Your OSAKAMANIA? delves into the charms of Osaka by featuring locals who have s\u2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":670,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1379"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1379"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1379\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/670"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1379"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1379"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/osaka-info.jp\/local_journey\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1379"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}