Japan: Culinary Adventures (9): Shinjuku Night

I met Hali, Maz and Shawna at the Shinbashi Station as they were returning from their sushi class. Hali went back to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation; the rest of us, along with John (a fellow-student from the class) took the, yes, Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station ("busiest train station in the world.")

We plunged through the crowds following John, who seemed to know his way around—or at least he gave that impression. Past the crowds, out onto the street, a right turn and then down a narrow alleyway lined with tiny countertop restaurants.

Very, very atmospheric.

Our countertop restaurant was, in fact, pretty crowded. On one side, you had your Sapporo beer reps, and on the other, your K2 snowboard rep. Behind the counter you had your nesan thoroughly in charge. The air was redolent with cigarette smoke, which of course only added to the mystique of the place.

I had a plateful of skewered chicken and some sake, but in deference to the Sapporo reps, we all started drinking quantities of beer. Have I mentioned how well Japanese beer goes with Japanese food?


Off to another restaurant for some sashimi and sake, and then back to Shinjuku Station for a late night train ride back to the hotel.



Photos: Shinjuku Alley—Tokyo, 2008; John & Nesan (Shinjuku)—Tokyo, 2008; Sapporo Reps (Shinjuku)—Tokyo, 2008; Yamanote Line (Late Night)—Tokyo, 2008