So long, Nagano! A bit sad leaving the convivial environment and people of 1166 Backpackers. My Kanazawa guesthouse feels like the location for a meet-cute with a fellow socially awkward, introverted traveler. The other guests seem to mostly keep to their private rooms.

After unloading my bags, I made a reservation at a highly-rated izakaya via Tabelog, then hustled to catch a bus over there in time. I wanted to go to an izakaya for the counter seating, to be around people, but when I got their they put me in a booth because the counter seating was full. Sitting there alone in a completely enclosed booth, with the sound of merrymaking all around me, felt depressing, so I left.

At this point I was desperate for food, water, and most importantly, a fun atmosphere. I just walked into the first place I saw that had counter seating.

They’re all about putting gold leaf on things here. Tempura Shishito peppers. Chefs kiss.

Earlier I had popped in a little bar for directions. It had looked like a fun joint, so after dinner I made my way over to Bar Budokan. “Welcome back!” the bartender said, recognizing me from earlier.

I sat down at the bar and order a draft beer.

I pointed to a jar on the counter. “Hebi (snake)??”

The bartender nodded and asked if I wanted some. It quickly became clear this was not just decorative. I thought for a second.

“Yes, of course!” I replied.

“Tsuyouii (stong)!” Said the Japanese guy next to me at the bar. Not sure if he was referring to me, this concoction, or both.

There’s no way this decision will come back to bite me.

Later, one of the other patrons started passing around a bottle of sake.

There was the guy next to me, then there was this cool English bloke. We made a pact to show up again the following night at 19:30.

It was a fun evening.