Local Food & Drink Tastings • 3 hours 5.0 (204)

Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

Uncover Nakano’s authentic culinary scene as you explore lively backstreets and hidden izakayas. This tailored food adventure connects you to Tokyo’s

Don't forget to carry your passport with you to enjoy tax free shopping at many participating establishments!

What makes this experience special

Explore Nakano’s lively backstreets and hidden izakayas on a food experience shaped around your tastes—connecting you to Tokyo’s soul, one bite at a time.

Key highlights

  • Experience Tokyo’s culinary culture in an area beloved by locals, far from tourist-heavy hotspots.
  • Explore Nakano’s iconic backstreets and “Sun Mall” with a local host.
  • Savor 8-10 distinct dishes, from comforting oden to crispy karaage.
  • Enjoy expertly paired drinks, including sake, plum wine, and draft beer.
  • Uncover local secrets in family-run izakayas and yatai-style alleys.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
Walking experience May use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
8-10 food & drink tastings, tailored to your dietary preferences
Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Additional food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

JR Nakano Station, JR Nakano Station, 5-chōme Nakano, Nakano City, Tokyo 164-0001, Japan

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

JR Nakano Station, JR Nakano Station, 5-chōme Nakano, Nakano City, Tokyo 164-0001, Japan

Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

A Cozy Start in Nakano Sun Mall

Discover hidden gems in Nakano’s bustling covered arcade.

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Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

Begin your adventure in the lively Sun Mall, where your host will guide you to an intimate spot. Savor comforting oden—a mix of simmered daikon, fish cakes, and egg—paired with seasonal sashimi. Enjoy a cold draft beer or shochu as you take in the local charm of this iconic area.

Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

Tucked-Away Backstreet Gem

Dive deeper into Nakano’s retro-style backstreets.

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Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

Venture into the quieter alleys of Nakano, where your host will choose a spot known for its grilled skewers and local specialties. Relish smoky yakitori or sweet miso-glazed eggplant, perfectly paired with a whisky highball or sake. Enjoy the warmth of local hospitality.

Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

A Vibrant Alleyway Finale

Finish the evening in Nakano’s lively yokocho alleys.

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Eat Like a Tokyoite: Your 3-Hour Izakaya Crawl in Nakano

Wrap up your journey in Nakano’s bustling alleys, alive with chatter and sizzling grills. Your host will guide you to a cozy, family-run spot offering crunchy kushikatsu or crispy karaage. Pair it with refreshing yuzu sour or plum wine as you soak in the lively atmosphere and uncover local secrets.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
Late-Night Eats & New Friends!

Late-Night Eats & New Friends!

A Night of Laughter, Sake & Unforgettable Memories!

A Night of Laughter, Sake & Unforgettable Memories!

Savoring Sushi & Sake in an Authentic Tokyo Izakaya!

Savoring Sushi & Sake in an Authentic Tokyo Izakaya!

The Best Nights Start in a Tiny Izakaya!

The Best Nights Start in a Tiny Izakaya!

Discovering Tokyo’s Izakaya Culture!

Discovering Tokyo’s Izakaya Culture!

Authentic Izakaya Dining in the Heart of the City!

Authentic Izakaya Dining in the Heart of the City!

Sharing Drinks, Stories & Local Favorites!

Sharing Drinks, Stories & Local Favorites!

Cozy Corners, Cold Drinks & Great Company in a Hidden Izakaya!

Cozy Corners, Cold Drinks & Great Company in a Hidden Izakaya!

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

What travelers think of this experience

Sean Mar 2025

We had to do our food tour at an unconventional time due to scheduling issues on our part, but Mari made it work so well. She took us to an area of Tokyo we would have never discovered on our own and we really did feel like we were dining where the locals go. She picked excellent places and was very attentive to our family. Then she took extra time to show us around Shibuya. We are so grateful for her time with us.

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Rachel Mar 2025

Kay was energetic, fun and very knowledgeable. Its was a great few hours.

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Sam Mar 2025

Very much enjoyed the tour and Apy was an amazing guide! Great food and conversation. Couldn't recommend more!!

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Sam Mar 2025

She did an amazing job. We had a fantastic time. Give her a raise!

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Barb Mar 2025

We had an amazing visit to Tokyo. Chiara took a few minutes when we met to understand our objectives. She delivered expertly and threw in some surprises which we appreciated. Highly recommend City Unscripted hosts, you won't be disappointed.

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Cheryl Mar 2025

He was very knowledgeable, flexible and interested in making our tour very memorable. He did just that. He went above and beyond what we expected and will book Victor again as well as telling our friends.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Can I mix different themes in one experience?

Absolutely! Whether you want a blend of food, history, local culture, or nightlife, your host will seamlessly weave them together into one immersive experience.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can my experience accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes! You'll receive a questionnaire right after booking where you can note any dietary requirements, and your host will tailor the experience accordingly.

Can I request specific places to visit?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Can I adjust the plan on the day?

Of course! Your experience is flexible, so you can explore at your own pace and make changes along the way.

Do you have deals with restaurants or set food stops?

No, unlike traditional food tours, our hosts are free to take you to their personal favorite spots rather than fixed locations. This means your food experience will always be unique, with authentic and unbiased recommendations from someone who knows the local food scene best.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.