Completely shellshocked from cultural differences in Japan? Need a guide to show you how to have fun and drink around dive bars like we love to do in the US?? THIS IS THAT TOUR!
What an experience. Having been here for an entire week already, completely intimidated when trying to even “get-by” in bars/restaurants this whole time… this guy Rodney (native English speaker) pulls up and it’s like that veil of intimidation and “unsure-d-ness” is lifted. He took us to several bars, speaking fluent Japanese with everyone along the way, recommending food and drink as we go.
We started in a busy pub, with GREAT small plate food (think Tapas) with beers and cocktails as an icebreaker, and everyone got to know each other. Then we go for a stroll and he teaches us some Osaka history before popping his head in to the TINIEST bar I’ve ever seen (until later….!) with a “sumimasen!” and checks to make sure there was room for the 5 of us. He knows all the local pub owners, bartenders, etc.
My wife and I don’t go out and “barhop” much anymore, so we were not expecting to even really let loose, just learn and have some small bites… but Rodney is a GREAT MC and knew how to steer the vibe Perfectly. Next thing I know, we are singing karaoke in the cleanest, little dive bar ive ever seen!
This was the highlight of our trip, and made me feel at home and screwing off with friends almost immediately. Would recommend to anyone near Osaka. When we come back, I look forward to booking this AGAIN lol and I bet he would take us to completely different spots, he seems to know everyone.
Thanks Rodney!!!
-Drew/Kaelyn
