In Japanese beer gardens, people enjoy food, drinks, and conversation with family and friends. On the other hand, beer gardens in other countries are offered as a place to relax and enjoy drinks and snacks, and some may be confused by the difference in atmosphere.

Here we introduce five beer gardens from western Japan that we recommend for summer. This article also explains what to expect in a beer garden, so please take a look.

■Characteristics of Japanese Beer Gardens

A beer garden is a restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy drinks and food. Most beer gardens are open only during the summer and offer an open outdoor space.

While it is common in other countries to enjoy drinks and snacks in a relaxed atmosphere, beer gardens in Japan are used by large groups of people to enjoy drinks and food.

■Five beer gardens recommended for summer in western Japan

There are many beer gardens in western Japan, some open only during the summer and others open year-round. Some of them are already booked up.

Here are five recommended beer gardens in western Japan, so be sure to check the places you are interested in as soon as possible.

【Hyogo Prefecture】TOOTH TOOTH Beer Garden at the Sea 2024

TOOTH TOOTH Beer Garden at Sea 2024 is one of the largest beer garden events in Kobe. All plans include a meal ticket worth 1,000 yen per person and a choice of food from 9 stores.

The restaurant, which seats approximately 300, features a giant aquarium tank in the theater-style aquarium átoa, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while gazing at the beautiful world of the sea. A kids’ plate is also available for children up to elementary school age, making it a great place to bring children.

There is open-air terrace seating, and BBQ-style dining can also be enjoyed using the food and equipment provided.

【Osaka】Rooftop BBQ Beer Garden UMEDA Main Hall 2024

Rooftop BBQ Beer Garden UMEDA Main Hall 2024 is a beer garden event held on the rooftop of K’s Square Building in Osaka. With a capacity of over 600 people, it is one of the largest rooftop beer gardens in the Kansai region, and is conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from each station. The all-weather hall allows visitors to enjoy the event even in the rain.

UMEDA Main Hall also offers four types of all-you-can-drink menus. All menus are reasonably priced yet hearty. However, please note when making reservations that single items cannot be ordered, and the price changes depending on the month. Reservations can be made through the website.

【Osaka】Kintetsu Uehonmachi Family Beer Garden

Kintetsu Uehonmachi Family Beer Garden is a beer garden based on the concept of a Japanese festival. The prices for junior high and high school students, elementary school students, and preschool children are set low, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy.

The 2-hour all-you-can-eat + all-you-can-drink plan can be made unlimited by paying +500 yen, so it is recommended for those for whom 2 hours is not enough time.

Also, you can bring in your own food, which is rare for a restaurant. However, please note that only food purchased at the Kintetsu Department Store can be brought in.

【Hiroshima】Yokogawa Beer Garden 2024

Yokogawa Beer Garden in Hiroshima Prefecture is now being held at a location just a minute’s walk from the nearest station. A custom-sized roof has been installed, so it will be safe to use in the event of rain. It will be open as long as there are no typhoons or other stormy weather, so it is recommended for those who do not want to be affected by the weather.

The venue will be set up with candy and a festival corner for you to enjoy with your children.

Yokogawa Beer Garden is already fully booked on many days due to reservations and private parties. Please check the official website for the latest information on full capacity in advance. Also, it is recommended to make reservations in advance because there is a possibility that the restaurant may be full and you may not be able to get in on the day of the event.

【Okinawa】Japan’s Southernmost Beer Garden – Island Sky

Located at the southernmost point of Japan in Okinawa Prefecture, the beer garden Island Sky is a popular spot where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and delicious Okinawan cuisine.

You can enjoy drinks and food while watching the beautiful ocean and starry sky of Ishigaki Island, and you can also watch sports on the big screen.

Food and drinks are relatively reasonable, and you can enjoy Okinawan cuisine such as fried tofu, fries, sea grapes, and Okinawan sushikas.

Tables and counter seating are available, and the beer garden can also be reserved for private parties, making it a great place for one person or a large group.

■What to expect when going to a beer garden in the summer

Because beer gardens are located outdoors, there are some precautions that must be taken that are different from those taken at regular restaurants. For example, it gets very hot during the day, so heat protection is necessary, such as fans and handy fans.

Here are five things to keep in mind when visiting a beer garden in summer.

Make reservations in advance.

Beer gardens in summer are very popular and crowded with customers. Some restaurants are available without reservations, but they may be crowded and you may not be able to get in.

Especially on weekends, you may have to wait a long time to get in or be refused entry because of the large number of customers. Regardless of the number of people, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Take measures to protect against ultraviolet rays and insects

Since the beer garden is outdoors, take measures to protect yourself from the sun and insects. We recommend sunscreen, hats, and lightweight fabrics to protect against the sun. A parasol is also effective, but should not be used in crowded areas as it may disturb other people.

Insect repellant spray should be prepared, as mosquitoes and other insects are likely to be present in natural areas.

Wear clothes that are easy to move around in.

Wear clothes that are easy to move around in beer gardens.

In a beer garden, you may have to pick up your own beer and food, and there is a possibility that you may get smelly or dirty. Therefore, we recommend that you wear clothes that are easy to move around in and easy to clean.

Also, even in summer, as the sun sets, the temperature may drop and it may become chilly. It is a good idea to have something light to wear.

Check the weather forecast

Check the weather forecast before you visit a beer garden.

Since beer gardens are outdoors, they may be closed depending on the weather. Since each restaurant handles rainy weather differently, it is a good idea to check who to contact on the day of the event and how to cancel.

It is also recommended to choose an all-weather store, as it can be used in most weather conditions.

Be careful not to consume too much alcohol.

Many beer gardens offer all-you-can-drink plans. Therefore, be careful not to consume too much alcohol.

Drinking too much can cause problems such as getting sick or making loud noises when you are in a bad mood. Be careful not to drink too much in the open atmosphere before you know it.

■Summary of beer garden west Japan recommended in summer

Beer gardens are a popular night leisure activity in Japan during the summer. Unlike in other countries, beer gardens are lively places to spend time while chatting, eating, and enjoying alcohol.

Summer in Japan is hot and humid, so be sure to take precautions against the heat in outdoor beer gardens. Also, be careful not to get into trouble by drinking too much cold beer. Enjoy an open evening with your friends and family.

【Q＆A】
Q. Are children allowed in the beer garden?
A. It depends on the restaurant.

Even if they can enter, there may not be enough space for children to enjoy the food and beverage menus and space for children to enjoy themselves because it is a place to enjoy alcoholic beverages. Please inquire in advance about the menu, atmosphere, etc.

Q.What should I bring when going to a beer garden?
A.＜Anti UV rays and temperature
Hat, fan or hand fan, sweat towel, sunscreen, light jacket
<Anti-insect measures
Insect repellent spray

In addition, pocket tissues and sanitizing wet sheets are recommended to prevent hands and tables from getting dirty.