In Japan, gathering at izakayas (traditional Japanese-style taverns) for various occasions is a cherished tradition. Sharing delicious food and drinks—including beer, sake, and soft drinks—helps people connect and understand each other better.

At Kanpai Buddies, tourists can go dining out and kanpai (toast) with the locals (your Buddies) at an izakaya, immersing themselves in a truly local atmosphere.

You’ll learn about Japanese culture, lifestyle, and trends directly from the people who live it every day. They may also offer recommendations for tourist spots and tips on getting around.

Interacting with them will surely become an unforgettable part of your stay in Japan.

Let's kanpai with the locals in Japan!

1. Fill Out an Application: Complete an application form with your name, contact email address, desired area, and preferred date, among other details, then submit your request.

2. Confirmation: A staff member will contact you via email to confirm your details within 24 hours.

3. Announcement to Members: Our staff will announce your request to our members and seek a volunteer participant (Buddy).

4. Notification: Once a Buddy is found, you will be notified accordingly.

5. Payment: Pay a Buddy arrangement fee of JPY 1,500 (approximately USD 9) through Square to Kanpai Buddies. Special Promotion:Free until the end of June 2024.

6. Contact Information Exchange: The staff will include the Buddy in a CC and email you the Buddy’s email address and WhatsApp number.

7. Finalize Details: You and your Buddy will finalize the meeting details via email or WhatsApp, then get ready to enjoy kanpai!

8. Payment at Izakaya: The bill at the izakaya will be split and settled in cash at the end of the meeting.

Take it easy.

Your Buddies speak at least some English while some speak very fluently, and they are eager to actively interact with you, travelers from abroad. Additionally, some of them are multilingual, capable of conversing in languages like Chinese, Korean, Thai, French, Spanish, and German, among others.

If you learn Japanese, your Buddies are the perfect partners to help you improve!

Q: How much will each person pay at the izakaya?

 A: It varies by the type of establishment:

 At a budget-friendly izakaya, it's about 2,000 to 4,000 yen.

 At a mid-range izakaya, it's about 4,000 to 6,000 yen.

 At a high-end izakaya, it's about 7,000 to 10,000 yen.

Q: How many people can participate in Kanpai Buddies?

 A: The maximum number in your group can be four, with one or two Buddies joining.

Kanpai Buddies is not designed for large, rowdy parties. By limiting the group size, we aim to create a safer, more relaxed, and enjoyable environment for conversation.

Q: Do we also have to cover the Buddies' share of the bill?

 A: No, the Buddies will pay for their own share. The Buddies participate to enjoy conversation and international exchange with you.

Q: Apart from splitting the bill, should we also tip the Buddies?

 A: No. The Buddies participate to enjoy conversation and international exchange with you. There is no need to give tips.

Q: I don't drink alcohol. Can I still participate?

 A: Of course, you can participate. Izakayas offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, such as oolong tea, cola, soda, and mineral water. Please inform your Buddy in advance so that we can take this into consideration when choosing the izakaya.

Q: I'm vegan. Are there any izakayas that cater to vegans?

 A: Unfortunately, there are very few izakayas that cater specifically to vegans.

While many izakayas do offer dishes made with vegetables, seaweed, and beans that vegetarians might enjoy, please be aware that these kitchens also prepare meat and fish, and vegetable dishes often contain fish broth.

Q: Is it okay to bring our children?

A: Unfortunately, we do not allow minors to accompany at this time. 

All participants must be 20 years of age or older.