Tucked in Nihonbashi’s Ningyocho district, Kiha (キハ) is a charming homage to Japan’s rail history. Launched in 2006, this compact standing‑style izakaya sits in a two-story space designed to replicate vintage Tokyo subway cars. The upper level features benches, overhead luggage racks, hanging straps—and even authentic ads and station signage—for a full commuter-car experience. Inside, you’ll find a nostalgic display of railway memorabilia: an extensive train-model diorama, old ticket stubs, station maps, vintage speaker systems, and even dishes from the defunct Hokutosei sleeper train. The owner (affectionately called “assistant conductor”) sometimes appears in JR conductor attire, adding to the immersive fun. Kiha runs on a unique nomihōdai system—no individual drink orders, just flat-fee time-based drinking. You pay a boarding ticket then ¥300 per 10 min ($1 USD), slowing to ¥300 per 20 min after 2 hours. The bar serves standard items: one-cup sake, canned foods like corn, salted pork, fish in brine—and cooked snacks such as curry or ham katsu. Drinks (sake from ¥500) & cans (~¥150–600) are cash-on-counter, with hot dishes also available. Expect a mellow, friendly crowd—locals, train enthusiasts, date nights—often chatting over sake & railroad lore. Karaoke and a train-themed DVD collection add to the entertainment. In short: Kiha is part bar, part railway museum—a delightful spot for a laid-back, nostalgic drink among commuters’ echoes and collectors’ stories.
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