Most of Asahikawa's clubs, cafes, bars and restaurants are located in the heart of the city, on or close to the main shopping street, and a short walk from most city hotels. This convenience is particularly welcome in winter when the temperature dives well into the negative teens and can make longer walks in the evening seem like an Arctic expedition.
Quite the opposite in summer when you will be able to relax outside in one of the roof-top or street-side beer gardens, serving ice cold beer and a great food.
If you are more inclined to relax with a cup of tea or coffee and a conversation, the city is filled with dozens of cafes, some in plain sight and others hidden away in the quiet corners of the city's smaller streets and alleys. At most of them, you will find great coffee and a quiet ambient atmosphere, a perfect way to wind down after a long day.
When faced with a choice of about 1,300 bars and restaurants in a small area, decisions can seem a little daunting. Spend a bit of time walking and looking around at your choices and you are sure to find something that you will enjoy.
Sake Breweries
Asahikawa is home is to three of the most well recognized Sake brands in Japan; Otokoyama Sake Brewery & Museum, Taisetsu no Kura Sake Brewery, and Takasago Sake Brewery. All three use the crystal clear, pure spring water form the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, and all offer free sake tasting, over the counter purchases, gifts and a great deal of sake related information.
Beer gardens are designed of the purpose of allowing people to spend time outdoors during the relatively short Asahikawa summer. The beer is ice cold and bbq smoke fills the city street air. Some beer gardens host live music or traditional drumming and dance. It's a real party atmosphere...
Nomihoudai
What is a "Nomihoudai"? The term nomihoudai literally means drink free, which as you can imagine translates to all- you- can- drink. It is a service offered at many restaurants in Japan...
See Also
Beer vs Happoshu
Credit Cards
Tipping
Charm Charge
Beer Vending Machines
Pics: Pimp my Van
Featured Bar
The Den International Bar
The Den should definitely be the first choice for international visitors. In addition to having a fine food menu, the Den is a great place to simply pull-up a stool, have a beer and watch some sport. There is no 'charm charge'...
Casino Drive
If you like it a little louder, a little more crowded and with a bit more edge, check out Casino Drive for an awesome night out. Casino Drive will open at its new downtown location in the coming months, more information when we have it...
Romper Room
Romper Room is a cozy little Karaoke Bar located in the heart of the San Roku nightlife district. Sit back, have a few beers, and belt out some of your favourite songs, Romper Room is an inexpensive and fun night out.
Bar Forte Viva
The bar Forte Viva is a great little Jazz bar on the 15th floor of the Loisir Hotel Asahikawa. Relax with some live Jazz while taking in the spectacular Asahikawa night views...
Coming Soon