Bar Takazono is a music bar housed in a traditional Japanese building. In 1976, Toda-san or “Master Toda” took over his mom’s bar and, following his own passion, turned it into an American-themed bar.

Back when he was 18 years old, he went to the city of Yokosuka where the US military base had allowed more of American culture to permeate into local life. Overseas travel was a rarity in those days, but his interest in America had him searching form some place to experience the culture. One day, he stumbled upon an American bar there which made a big impression on him, and he knew that he wanted to open a bar like that someday.

All drinks are paid for individually when ordering. There’s also a variety of food and non-alcohol cocktails on the menu. Normally, music is played with analog records, but occasionally, there’s also live music or open blues jams. He also plays in a doo-wop band himself, The Ovals, where he goes by his “Mocchan” nickname. “Remarkable things are happening every day here in Fukuromachi. You can find a new side of yourself here. Please come and have a special adventure.”