Bar-hopping in Sendai: Bunka Yokocho & Iroha Yokocho
Take a step into the side street off Sendai’s bustling Sunmall Ichibancho arcade, and you will find two famous alleyways that retain their old-fashioned charm to this day: Bunka Yokocho and Iroha Yokocho. The alleys (“yokocho”) are iconic Sendai tourist spots that are popular with men and women of all ages.
The area is steeped in nostalgia and feels as though you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem. The two alleys are lined with more than150 bars and restaurants offering a wide range of tastes and pleasures. The neon lights and lanterns are reminiscent of the good old days of Japan, making you feel as though you’ve traveled back in time.
Sendai’s two major alleys, Bunka Yokocho and Iroha Yokocho, are loved by locals and tourists alike for their unique atmosphere and delicious eateries. Come here to enjoy a pleasant night and appreciate the area’s nostalgic atmosphere and old-fashioned Japanese elegance!
History
It is believed that the alleys first began after World War II, amidst the ruins left behind by air raids, when people began using doors to create makeshift open-air stalls to sell burnt crockery and clogs.
Today, the narrow alleys are lined with a variety of compact stores including knickknack shops, cafes and restaurants, giving the area its unique look. Around noon they are full of lunchtime customers, while in the evenings the lights give the alleys a surreal atmosphere. Both are attractive times to visit, and the alleys are sure to keep visitors entertained throughout the day. A wide range of visitors from local regulars to tourists come to enjoy the unique, bustling atmosphere of the alleys.
How to Enjoy the Alleys
The alleys are lined with stores representing a variety of genres such as Chinese and Italian cuisine, sushi, yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), bars, yakiniku (grilled meat), ramen, and multicultural cuisine. The varied lineup offers visitors the opportunity to discover and experience new things.
Dotted along the alleys are long-established shops retaining an old-fashioned atmosphere, as well as stylish new shops that you can pop into alone. Each store has a charm of their own, but the stylishly retro establishments in particular are not to be missed. The alleys’ unique atmosphere sparks excitement and curiosity among visitors, and make you feel as though you’ve stepped into another dimension.
This is also a place where you will get to enjoy conversation with local regulars. With the chance to make new discoveries each time you visit, as well as enjoy interactions with the locals, the alleys are sure to offer endless fascination to visitors.
