No need for blind dates if you're single—Japan's singles-only izakayas force social interaction

 

Aware of how many people’s social circles shrink and it becomes harder to meet new friends or potential partners after entering the workforce, a new type of Japanese izakaya called “Aisaseki-ya,” which offers shared-table service, has emerged. Simply by dining at an Aisaseki-ya, the staff will help arrange for you to share a table with someone of the opposite sex, giving you the chance to meet new people and possibly make a romantic connection.

The atmosphere at Aisaseki-ya is not much different from that of a regular izakaya, but it provides a more relaxed and comfortable setting for matchmaking. Since its inception in Tokyo in 2014, this type of izakaya has gradually become more widespread. The venues feature many four-seat tables designed for two men and two women to sit facing each other, aiming to create a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Pricing varies by gender: women can enjoy unlimited free drinks for as long as they stay (though food is charged at regular prices), while men pay 1,500 yen for every 30 minutes of free drinks starting from when they share a table. As for table-sharing arrangements, the staff will assign seats randomly based on approximate age groups. If you don’t like your assigned tablemate, you can ask the staff to change seats. To ensure everyone has a pleasant time socializing, Aisaseki-ya has established some rules, including no entry in eccentric outfits, strict bans on harassment, and no admission for those who are overly drunk or rowdy.