Ashikaga, Tochigi, Japan｜Nekomataya

Honestly I cannot recommend this place enough. My partner and I have been to a fair amount of bars and izakaya during our month-long trip to Japan but this was one of our most favourite experiences. Hirohito-san is an incredibly knowledgable master bartender, who curated cocktails based on our tastes and the flavours we were looking for. The cocktails are a little pricier than what I'm used to, but watching him make them for you and the care that goes into the craft is well worth the cost. The cocktails he made for us were all incredibly delicious and Hirohito-san's attention to detail is unmatched. Hirohito-san was so kind to ask us about what we were doing in Ashikaga, and offered us advice on things to see while we're here, as well as drew us a map to a sightseeing spot! He was so friendly, and when we left he even gave us umbrellas to walk back to our hotel in the rain! We couldn't believe his generosity and thoughtfulness. I even tried to give him a tip (for the first time in Japan, as I know it isn't customary), but unsurprisingly, he would not accept. Overall we had a very warm and entertaining experience and I would recommend this place to anyone.

The most amazing bar I've been to in Japan. Wonderful and friendly artisan who makes the most amazing custom cocktails based on your mood, Mr Hirohito is simply awesome.

Nothing lift to say!.. Arai san is the best bartender ever!