Embark on a spirited journey into the heart of tokyo’s old downtown at the Shitamachi Highball Fest. From June 23 (Friday) to June 25 (Sunday), 2023, Tokyo’s Ueno Park transforms into a vibrant gathering of highball enthusiasts, craft beer aficionados, and sake connoisseurs.
This event, a collaborative effort of shopping streets from Ueno and Asakusa, promises three days filled with flavors and fun.
A Standing Ovation to Standing-Style Drinking
Shitamachi, or downtown areas, have long been associated with Tokyo’s distinctive standing-style bars, known as tachinomi. True to this tradition, the Shitamachi Highball Fest delivers an authentic tachinomi experience.
Booths selling a variety of beverages – from the festival’s namesake Shitamachi Highball, Sake Highball, Wine Highball to a selection of craft beers and Japanese sake – create a lively atmosphere within Ueno Park.
Taste the Flavorful Harmony of Highballs and More
It’s not just the drinks that’ll leave a lasting impression, but also the delectable food on offer. The festival ensures your tastebuds are entertained with a medley of dishes designed to complement your highball. Feast on Hormone Yaki (grilled offal), Yaki Xiao Long Bao (roasted dumplings), and an array of sweets.
In addition to the food and drink, the festival amps up the ambiance with traditional yomise (night market stalls) featuring toys, and heart-stopping performances of Yosakoi and Soran Bushi dances, promising a thoroughly entertaining time.
A Quick Note On The Japan Rail Pass Price Hike
The price of the wonderful Japan Rail Pass is going up a massive 62% in October but there’s still time to lock in the old rates if you’re quick. Klook still offers the old prices so if you buy before September 30th you can travel with the old prices until December 28th, 2023.
Event Details
- Event: Shitamachi Highball Festival (Downtown Highball Festival)
- Date: June 23 (Friday) – June 25 (Sunday), 2023
- Time: June 23: 13:00-20:00, June 24: 10:00-20:00, June 25: 10:00-18:00
- Location: Ueno Park Fountain Plaza, Tokyo
- Address: 3 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Transport Access & Nearest Stations:
- 7-minute walk from ‘Ueno Station’ Park Exit on the JR line
- 11-minute walk from ‘Keisei Ueno Station’ on the Keisei line
The Sum Up
Mark your calendars for the Shitamachi Highball Fest, and make sure to head down to Ueno Park for an authentic Tokyo tachinomi experience. Savor the unique combinations of highballs, craft beers, and sake, and immerse yourself in an event that embodies the spirit of Tokyo’s downtown.
