On the evening of the 4th, I wanted to enter a bar but was asked for my age by a short-haired female waitress and was required to show my ID. I didn't have my ID with me, so I told her I was over 18 years old (I knew I couldn't drink alcohol but I had the right to enter this place), and showed her my hotel address and phone number in Japan as a foreigner, which indicated that I was an adult. However, this waitress was not cooperative when I tried to communicate with her in English and through a translator. After I said "excuse me" three times and she didn't respond, I waited for her to return to the bar counter to take orders and then told her, but she pretended not to hear and went back to her work. I had no choice but to leave. This bar was a place I was very much looking forward to during my entire trip to Japan, and I was leaving for China the next day, so I had no time to go back to this bar again. I was very disappointed and sad. Looking back, I was more angry. I thought my appearance was in no way that of someone under 18 years old. Although it was my negligence not to carry my passport with me, some other Japanese people of my age were not asked for their IDs. When communicating with me, she spoke in Japanese that I couldn't understand at all. I seriously suspected that she wasn't trying to confirm my age as a strict restaurant, but was just unwilling to deal with a person from another country (strictly speaking, a non-Japanese Asian). Was this racial discrimination? Since I didn't have a meal at this bar, I couldn't comment on the food, but I was very dissatisfied with the service. After being refused entry, I asked other staff at the front desk about the opening hours, and they were friendly and told me, but I had no time to come again, which was very regrettable. The different attitudes of different staff members made me suspect that some of them were just being troublesome. This really cut down on my expectations for this bar. Although I might visit it again in the future, I was really scared of the human service...
Read moreTucked away in the heart of Tokyo lies Bar Lupin, a venerable establishment steeped in the rich tapestry of literary history. Since its inception in 1928, this cherished bar has been a beloved haunt for the literati of the Showa period, counting among its regulars esteemed writers such as Kyoka Izumi and Kan Kikuchi. Yet, its allure extends far beyond the realm of literature, drawing in painters, actors, and photographers, each seeking solace and inspiration within its storied walls.
The ambiance at Bar Lupin exudes an air of timeless sophistication, with its collection of vintage photographs adorning the walls, capturing the essence of a bygone era. As you settle into its cozy confines, you'll find yourself surrounded by the ghosts of literary giants, their presence lending an aura of intellectual intrigue to the space.
While the menu may be modest in its offerings, boasting a selection of whiskies, bourbons, and cocktails, it is the company and conversation that truly elevate the experience. Here, highbrow literary discussions flow freely, fueled by the spirits of creativity and camaraderie.
But what truly sets Bar Lupin apart is its warm and welcoming staff, who greet each guest with genuine hospitality and a genuine passion for their craft. From the moment my wife and I walked through the door, we were made to feel like cherished friends, welcomed into the fold with open arms.
As we sipped on our drinks and engaged in lively conversation with fellow patrons, we couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for this iconic establishment. Bar Lupin is not just a bar—it is a cultural institution, a sanctuary for the soul, and a timeless staple in the fabric...
Read moreA one-of-a-kind historic bar in the middle of Ginza, and an especially cool experience for any fans of classic Japanese literature, the "Bungo Stray Dogs" series, or both! The Bar has 3 photographed portraits of authors Dazai Osamu, Sakunosuke Oda, and Sakaguchi Ango at the rear side as a testament to when they used to visit as a trio in the Shōwa period. The Bar will give matchboxes with the logo upon request, along with brochures available in English detailing its history. Fans of "Bungo Stray Dogs" can request to view the Bar's copies of the manga signed by Kafka Asagiri and others who work on the series. The staff brought a standee of the three characters to take photos with as well! The staff were very kind gave great recommendations for which drinks to try - the mocktails were fantastic as well. An English menu is available. Overall it was an incredible experience and I can't...
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