Hosen

When looking for a down-to-earth neighbourhood izakaya in Oji, you’ll have a hard time finding better options than the comfy Hosen. With plenty of seating, decent food from around ¥300, Hoppy on tap and a straightforward shitamachi attitude, it’s not intimidating in the way that some of these watering holes can be for first-time visitors, as the regulars are always happy to welcome new faces. In addition, the shochu selection here certainly isn’t anything to sneeze at – check the big board for the day’s recommendations. The place really tends to get crowded later in the evening, when locals gather to share gossip and comment on whatever’s on the bar TV, but expect to have company even if you head over as soon as they open.