Susukino District

**Izakaya recommendations:** Robata Daikichi (炉端大吉, South 5 West 3, robatayaki-style grilling, ¥3,000-5,000 per person) serves Hokkaido seafood and meats grilled over charcoal, with seasonal sake. Torito (とり藤, South 4 West 4, yakitori specialist, ¥2,500-4,000) offers all-you-can-drink sets (飲み放題, nomihoudai, ¥1,500 for 2 hours). Both accept walk-ins but waits are common after 19:00. **Bar culture:** Tachinomi (standing bars) are cheap, casual, and social — customers stand at counters, order drinks (¥300-600) and small plates (¥300-800), and chat with strangers. Try Tachinomi Sakaba (立ち飲み酒場, multiple locations) for the authentic experience. Shot bars (250+ establishments) serve whisky and cocktails in tiny 8-10 seat spaces — intimate and conversational. **Late-night ramen:** After drinking, locals hit Ramen Yokocho (midnight-3am peak) or 24-hour ramen chains (Ramen Ichiro, Sumire Nakano branch). The tradition of post-drinking ramen (〆のラーメン, shime no ramen) is deeply ingrained — the salt and fat help with hangovers. **Safety note:** Susukino is safe by global nightlife district standards — violent crime is rare. Avoid aggressive touts near South 5 West 4 (host/hostess clubs area). Stick to establishments with visible pricing and English menus if uncertain. Credit cards increasingly accepted but cash is still king.