In Japan's izakaya chains, visiting tourists can easily enjoy an authentic Japanese culinary experience. Many establishments are cleverly designed with traditional Japanese interiors, subdued lighting, and tatami seating, allowing patrons to immerse themselves in Japan's traditional atmosphere. The friendly service further adds to the welcoming ambiance.

Izakayas in Japan feature a broad range of dishes, from fresh sashimi and grilled yakitori to comforting oden and kushikatsu skewers. They often have seasonal menus that showcase local flavors.

With an array of drinks, including regional sakes and exclusive selections, these pubs also provide set meals and all-inclusive deals for budget-friendly dining.

A small starter, known as 'otoshi,' is typically provided for a fee before the main meal begins. (This is done instead of tipping.)

In Japan, izakayas are commonly frequented for socializing with friends, colleagues, and other groups. They are popular venues for events like year-end parties, New Year's gatherings, and welcome or farewell parties.

The culture of deepening friendships over shared food and drinks is deeply rooted in Japan. If you want to experience a lively and quintessentially Japanese atmosphere, be sure to visit an izakaya!

Here, we'll introduce some of Japan's most popular izakaya chain restaurants. Each has its own unique features, making it enjoyable to explore and try different ones.

Torikizoku is a beloved izakaya chain renowned for its yakitori, affectionately referred to as "Torikichi." The chain prides itself on using only Japanese-sourced chicken to ensure utmost freshness, and each skewer is meticulously crafted by hand.

The signature sauce, a recipe that has remained unchanged since the establishment of Torikizoku, is a proprietary blend that adds a distinct flavor to their dishes. Additionally, they place a strong emphasis on accentuating the natural taste of the ingredients with a selection of condiments including wasabi, herbs, and particularly, rock salt.

One of the appealing aspects of Torikizoku is their uniform pricing strategy—every item on the menu is offered at a flat rate of 360 yen, making it an attractive and affordable dining option.

In addition to its celebrated yakitori, Torikizoku boasts a diverse menu that includes rice-based offerings such as "tori kama meshi" as well as sweet treats like the "choco parfait." To accommodate larger groups, they also feature budget-friendly party plans suitable for four or more guests, making them a popular choice for sizeable social events.

Spanning about 620 locations across Japan, with a strong presence in both the Kansai region and the Tokyo metropolitan area, Torikizoku caters to an international clientele by providing menus in English and Chinese.

"Sure, with pleasure!" This hearty response from wait staff originated at Shoya. Known as a popular local pub, Shoya distinguishes itself by having skilled chefs, or "itamae," at each of its locations.

These chefs procure freshly caught fish from various regions of Japan and prepare them into dishes like sashimi and simmered fish. Be sure to try their assorted sashimi platter to experience their deliciousness.

Shoya also excels at yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). The "Yakitori Assortment" offers five different types of skewers, allowing you to enjoy a variety of cuts, rivaling even dedicated yakitori shops.

And don't miss out on their specialty "nimono," a Japanese-style simmered dish that brings the taste of home-cooked meals.

With 126 locations nationwide, Shoya offers menus in English and Chinese, and some locations have staff who can communicate in these languages.

Uotami is a well-known izakaya chain where you can enjoy a wealth of creative Japanese seafood dishes. With numerous courses available, it's popular among patrons of all ages.

From sashimi and grilled fish to hot pots and sushi, you can indulge in a wide range of Japanese cuisine. Recommended dishes include the "Assorted Sashimi Platter" and the "Giant Grilled King Prawn Course."

One particularly impressive offering is the "Giant Grilled King Prawn," measuring an overwhelming 12 inches (30cm). When it arrives at your table, it's sure to leave you in awe.

With locations in almost every prefecture in Japan, you're likely to come across one in many city centers. While the menu is in Japanese, it often features photos, making it easy to order by pointing or gesturing if you don't speak Japanese.

Akakara is an izakaya chain specializing in hot pot dishes, originating from Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. One of its two signature dishes is the "Akakara Nabe," known for its rich flavor and addictive spiciness.

The other is the "Akakara Yaki," marinated in a secret sauce for over six hours. You can choose the intensity of spiciness from 11 different levels, and it's worth trying Akakara's unique way of enjoying the dish.

Given its origin in Nagoya, it's no surprise that popular Nagoya specialties like "tebasaki" (chicken wings) and "miso kushikatsu" (deep-fried skewered pork with miso sauce) are also on the menu.

Additionally, their signature dessert, "Imo Musume," is highly recommended. It features warm sweet potatoes wrapped in custard vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful combination of flavors.

With over 200 locations nationwide, Akakara is a prominent chain found in major cities across Japan and offers English menus.

At Yoronenotaki, an izakaya chain with a history of over 60 years, you'll find a wide range of dishes, from easily orderable portions to platters designed for sharing, suitable for both solo diners and large groups.

Many of their locations exude a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of Japan's Showa era (1926-1989), and with counters and spacious rooms available, they accommodate solo drinkers as well as group gatherings.

Since its establishment, Yoronotaki has preserved traditional flavors while continuing to innovate with new, creative dishes. Their drink selection is broad, but a must-try is the "Yorono Beer (small bottle)," introduced in 1971 as Japan's first private-label beer.

With over 200 locations nationwide, Yoronotaki's menus are primarily in Japanese, but with photos of most items, ordering by pointing is easy.

At Tsukada Nojo, you can savor dishes made with prized Miyazaki Jitokko chicken. Miyazaki Jitokko chicken is raised stress-free in contract farms located in the warm climate and fertile land of southern Kyushu, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.

Their signature dish, the "Jidori Charcoal-Grilled Chicken," and the "Jidori tataki" & "Jidori tsukune" hot pots, among others, are highly recommended for experiencing the full flavor of the chicken.

Pair these dishes with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks made with Miyazaki Prefecture's citrus fruits, such as Hebesu vinegar.

With nearly 100 locations in Tokyo, Osaka, and other areas, Tsukada Nojo's menus are primarily in Japanese but include photos, making it easy for non-Japanese speakers to order by simply pointing.

Isomaru Suisan is a major seafood izakaya chain. Here, you can grill freshly caught seafood and "kani miso kara" (crab miso in shell) right at your table for piping hot dishes.

Indulge in a variety of seafood delights, including generous platters of sashimi and seafood snacks and a wide selection of sushi and seafood rice bowls.

Aside from seafood, Isomaru Suisan is also known for its egg dishes. Be sure to try the "Shirasu and Nori Tamagoyaki," an egg omelet infused with the aroma of the sea.

With over 100 locations in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Aichi, Osaka, and other areas, Isomaru Suisan provides English, Chinese, and Korean menus.

At Hana-no-Mai, you can enjoy creative, authentic Japanese cuisine with a focus on seafood. It has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere typical of izakayas, allowing you to relax and savor your meal and drinks.

They provide various seating options, including private tables for small groups and tatami rooms for larger gatherings.

Emphasizing seasonal flavors, Hana-no-Mai serves dishes made with ingredients sourced from all across Japan. A highly recommended dish is the "Chef's Special Assorted Sashimi Platter with Aji (Horse Mackerel) Sashimi." It's a must-order menu item showcasing the freshness of their ingredients.

With approximately 100 locations nationwide, primarily in the Kanto region centered around Tokyo, Hana-no-Mai offers menus in both English and Chinese. There is Chinese-speaking staff at the Palette location near the west exit of Shinjuku Station.

Mekiki-no-Ginji is an izakaya where you can indulge in seafood delights grilled right at your table. Dishes such as scallops, marinated squid, crab miso in shell, and Sakhalin surf clam can be enjoyed while grilling them yourself.

Especially popular is the crab miso in shell, where the combination of crab miso and secret sauce creates a perfect harmony, pairing well with beer or sake.

The ambiance resembles that of a seaside Japanese cottage, and seating options suitable for both small and large groups are available.

With approximately 200 locations, primarily in urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka, Mekiki-no-Ginji provides English menus.

In traditional Japanese homes, the "doma" was the heart of family gatherings, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the good old days of Japan. At Izakaya DOMA-DOMA, that atmosphere is recreated, offering a glimpse into the past where people would gather on the doma to enjoy delicious food and drinks.

Their menu features a wide array of delicious, affordably priced dishes, each prepared with care. From classic izakaya staples like fried and grilled dishes to international-inspired originals like "Nan de Pizza!!" and desserts, there's something for everyone.

Their drink selection includes beer, sake, highballs, and even low-alcohol beer-flavored beverages.

With around 50 locations nationwide, primarily in Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, DOMA-DOMA has English and Chinese menus, and some locations have staff who can speak English.

At Hakata Motsunabe Oyama, you can treat yourself to Hakata's specialty motsunabe (offal hot pot). This izakaya offers exquisite motsu (offal) from domestically sourced (mainly Kyushu-produced) beef cooked in a secret broth.

Their most popular miso flavor combines various types of miso, including Kyushu miso and Saikyo miso, resulting in a rich, complex taste. The broth, carefully crafted from kombu (kelp) and bonito flakes, along with Oyama's special sauce, creates a deeply satisfying flavor that will delight your taste buds.

In addition to motsu, they also serve other dishes using ingredients sourced from Kyushu, like premium fatty horse sashimi directly procured from Kumamoto ranches and Oyama's original Hakata mentaiko with its distinct texture.

With locations primarily in Fukuoka Prefecture and also in Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Osaka, Hakata Motsunabe Oyama provides menus in English, and its website is available in English, Chinese, and Korean.

At Sumibi Yakitori Gonbei, a specialized yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) restaurant in Osaka, they use authentic Kamitosa Binchotan charcoal. Established in 1978 in Yao City, Osaka Prefecture, they continue to use a secret sauce inherited from "Torifuku," earning praise for its rich, full flavor.

They are dedicated to carefully selecting premium poultry, including "Unama Yamadori" from Miyazaki Prefecture, "Omi Hinai-dori," "Kurodori," and "Omi Jidori" from Shiga Prefecture, "Kyoto Tamba Kurodori" from Tamba, and "Gakamo" from Osaka Kawachi.

Highly recommended dishes include the "Yakitori Assortment of 5" with a selection of five different types of grilled skewers, the "Rare Grilled Breeder Chicken" known for its soft, juicy texture, and the "Sashimi Assortment of 3" featuring Kagoshima Satsuma jidori, known for its low fat content and rich flavor, making it a healthy, flavorful option. You must try it at least once!

They have seven outlets in Osaka city and offer English menus.

Tenka-no-Daidokoro Daikisuisan is an izakaya operated by the Daiki Group, known for its Daiki Suisan Conveyor Belt Sushi chain. Located about a 5-minute walk from Temmabashi Station on the Keihan Main Line, the "Tenka-no-Daidokoro Daikisuisan Hachikenyahama Maguro Stadium" offers a panoramic view of the seasonal scenery along the Okawa River, where guests can enjoy a variety of dishes featuring fish sourced from all over Japan.

The tuna at Daikisuisan comes from around the world. Not only domestically sourced, but also tuna raised in regions with advanced aquaculture techniques like the Mediterranean are imported. This ensures that patrons can enjoy delicious fresh tuna whenever they visit.

At Tuna Stadium, guests can also experience the popular "Tuna Cutting Show" held during dinner.

In addition to the Tuna Stadium, Daikisuisan operates other fish-related establishments such as "Machi no Minato," a retail fish market, mainly in the Osaka area. While menus are in Japanese, many items have accompanying photos, making it easy to order.

Echigoshubo, overseen by Hakkaisan, is an izakaya where you can savor the bounty of the mountains and seas of Niigata (Echigo). Must-try specialties include Niigata delicacies like "Mochi Pork Hot Pot" and "Hegi Soba." You can also enjoy dishes made from seasonal fish carefully selected by professional connoisseurs.

Pair your meal with Niigata's local sake, such as "Hakkaisan," seasonal limited editions, or premium sake, and you have a perfect combination.

True to its name as a private room izakaya, every spacious room is enveloped in a chic atmosphere, providing a tranquil setting. Some rooms even feature sunken kotatsu tables where you can sit back and relax with your legs stretched out.

With locations scattered throughout Tokyo and in Niigata Prefecture, the restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly options and English menus.

At the Kinki University Suisankenkyujo (Kinki University Fisheries Laboratory), you can dine on dishes made from fish raised at the laboratory as well as local ingredients from Kishu/Wakayama, where the laboratory is located.

Kinki University achieved the world's first successful complete cultivation of bluefin tuna, called "Kinkimaguro," which is widely distributed around the world. At Kinki University Suisankenkyujo, you can taste a variety of dishes made from Kinkimaguro, as well as other fish cultivated at Kinki University and ingredients from Wakayama.

Alongside sashimi, you'll find dishes like "Kinkimaguro rare cutlet," "Kinkimaguro with Gochujang dressing," and "Kinkimaguro bloodline tempura."

There are two locations: one in Osaka (inside Grand Front Osaka) and the other in Ginza, Tokyo (Tokyo Ginza Corridor Street). The menu is available in English, simplified Chinese, and Korean.

These popular chain izakayas can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so it's recommended to make a reservation. Enjoy delicious dishes, great drinks, and the lively atmosphere of Japanese izakayas with a smile on your face!

*The information in this article is as of January 2024. Please check the official website or other sources for the latest updates.