Published on Jan, 2024

I highly recommend this local bar-hopping tour in Izumisano! We went to two different bars loved by the locals, plus a small okinomiyaki shop to make our own delicious okinomiyaki. We enjoyed visiting a shrine and walking among the historic roads of Izumisano along the way to each location. The guides were very friendly and knowledgeable, teaching us about Japanese culture and the history of each location as we went. Please enjoy this unique experience that helps you experience the life of a local during your time in Japan!

Published on Jan, 2024

This bar hopping tour near Kansai Airport is amazing! Friendly food guide(s) can't wait to take you to their beloved restaurants for local soul food and all type of wines. Questions regarding Japanese food or culture are well-answered too. I spent a wonderful night there, so will you too. It is a English speaking tour, just relax and have some fun together!

Published on Dec, 2023

My recent bar hopping adventure in Izumisano, hosted by a local guide, was an experience that far exceeded my expectations. Initially, I was sceptical about the necessity of a guide, given the fact that I can already speak Japanese. However, this scepticism was quickly dispelled by the invaluable insights and recommendations our guide provided, completely changing my opinion on guided tours in general. The journey began at a charming okonomiyaki restaurant after being met by our guide at the station. Here, we were not just spectators but participants, learning how to make this iconic dish under the guidance of our host. The experience of crafting my own okonomiyaki was genuinely rewarding – a delightful twist from the usual dining experiences of having it being made in front of you or simply brought to you. Without the guide, I would not have had the confidence to try to make the okonomiyaki myself - so it was really appreciated that she showed us how to make it in an easy-to-understand step-by-step fashion. Next, we ventured into a local izakaya, characterised by its counter-style seating. This setting created a wonderfully interactive atmosphere, allowing us to engage with local patrons through our guide. Speaking with the regulars, we were able to try foods that I would not originally have thought to try and I felt immersed in the vibrant local culture. The final stop was a more laid-back bar, the perfect setting to unwind with a couple more drinks. This variety in venues ensured a well-rounded experience, each with its unique ambiance and offering. One of the most striking aspects of this bar hopping tour was the authenticity of the dining experience. Far from the tourist-trampled paths, we delved into places where English was scarce, and the menus were exclusively in Japanese. This immersion into the local dining scene provided a taste of genuine Japanese cuisine, as loved and frequented by the residents - and not just kiss-me-quick places that are common in more built-up areas. I would highly recommend this bar hopping experience to anyone seeking a deeper, more authentic exploration of Japanese culinary culture. It’s ideal for those looking to venture beyond the usual tourist spots and delve into the real flavours and interactions that define Osaka's vibrant food scene.

Published on Dec, 2023

It was my first time visiting Izumisano city. The first restaurant we went to was a okonomiyaki restaurant. The place was opened 70 years ago, the interior looked retro, and the food was great. Our guide taught us how to make okonomiyaki and we enjoyed it very much. After that we went to an izakaya with mostly counter seats and almost only locals visit there. It was a great opportunity to communicate with local people and see what they order. The food was great as well. The menu has almost everything from sashimi to tempura. And the last place was a western style pub. We ordered some cheese with crackers, and mixed nuts. Over all it was a great experience to see some local areas, talk to local people and simply just enjoy some great food and drinks.