The Retro Post-War Izakaya of Hoppy Dori, Asakusa

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Asakusa found prosperity in the Edo era. A veritable playground for rice dealers, merchants, lowly officials and samurai, it was the go-to place to catch a show, grab a bite or simply drink the night away. Of course, its heyday sadly came to an abrupt end during the war, when it, along with much of Tokyo, was destroyed by US air bombing.

As the city rebuilt and other areas surpassed it as preferred nightlife districts, Asakusa was left to find its new identity.

Despite the constant modernisation sweeping across the growing metropolis, Asakusa has managed to retain much of its ‘iki’, or traditional Japanese aesthetic.

Take a walk around the neighbourhood today and you’ll see remnants of post-war Japan in the shopping arcades, winding backstreets and, of course, on Hoppy Dori.   

The many izakaya of Hoppy Dori

Hoppy Dori, or Hoppy Street, is a collection of izakaya (Japanese taverns) located to the west of Sensoji Temple.

After the war, Tokyo’s neighbourhoods were in the process of rebuilding and these ramshackle establishments served as a place for the people to gather once more and drink to old times.

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These days, you can come in search of a bite and a bev, day or night, rain, hail or shine. There are over a dozen places to choose from, and as many touts trying to beckon hungry diners into their steamy, crowded shops. 

(You can read the rest of the article at this link. This article was first published by Team JJ on June 20, 2021. Check here for deeper and unique insights into visiting Japan, including wellness, travel, cuisine and more. Find us on Instagram and on Facebook.)

Author: Team JJ