Pubs and bars in Japan - statistics & facts
Alcohol consumption is a widely accepted recreational activity in Japan, much of which happens at drinking places. The vast number of late-night liquor-serving facilities underpins the ubiquity of drinking as a leisure activity in Japanese society, as well as the central role pubs and other types of drinking places play in it. Unlike the case with other substances that can cause addiction, the (regular) consumption of alcohol has few negative connotations attached to it. In fact, being able to hold one’s liquor is a highly valued trait in Japanese society. From the government perspective, alcohol consumption is lucrative, contributing to Japan’s public finance through revenues gathered from national liquor taxes. There are several market segments in the drinking establishment industry. Japanese-style pubs, called izakaya, are emblematic of Japan’s drinking culture, comprising an important industry segment. Bars and nightclubs, ryotei (traditional high-end drinking places), and coffee shops, are the other important segments. Consumers are attracted to drinking places, among other reasons, because of the informal setting that provides the possibility to enjoy quality alcoholic beverages alone or with others in a pleasant atmosphere.
