Building a Japanese-Friendly International Pub

Voices in Japan

How do you convince timid Japanese customers to become regulars at an international pub? Mike, the manager of Bearfoot Bar in Sapporo, joins Ben and Burke to share the trials and successes he and the staff at the bar have had in attracting the domestic Japanese crowd, which is basically the only customer base available in the midst of the coronavirus travel restrictions. According to Mike, the bar might now have a 80% Japanese customer base! What are the expectations of Japanese customers? How has Bearfoot Bar reinvented itself in the past six months to differentiate itself from the previous pubs that have enjoyed success as international bars in the same location on the sixth block of Sapporo's famous Tunikikoji shopping arcade in the middle of town? Listen to find out now!
Sponsors:

The Red House Rusutsu

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, the restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.

https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, free pick up available from the bus stop, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.

http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, serices, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available.

https://hokkaidoguide.com
Bearfoot Bar. 12 different types of Japanese made craft beers, both bottles and on tap. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Tapas style menu and burgers. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff. Open 7 days a week. Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. Why not pop in for a drink if you are in town!

https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

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