ここは高山を実感できる民芸調な居酒屋で飲む！ : Kappa

Following the previous day's activities, I decided to visit a popular izakaya before opening hours at Taruhei, but I found a notice stating they were fully booked today. I wandered around the area, but most popular places were either crowded or closed. Eventually, I stumbled upon the retro-styled drinking alley called Noren no Ichibangai, which had a delightful variety of bars lined up! Among the many places, I discovered a striking building designed like a traditional house. When I peeked inside, it seemed open, so I was welcomed in. The interior exudes warmth from the wood, creating a soothing, folk-art style atmosphere, featuring a long counter and raised seating area that extends deep into the space. Although the place is quite spacious, there were only a couple, presumably a husband and wife, running the shop. Their menu includes a variety of options, from sashimi and skewers to local dishes, and of course, Hida beef. I ordered a draft beer, along with the rather expensive marinated mackerel and wasabi greens that caught my attention. With a draft beer in hand, I enjoyed the appetizer of grated radish with dried fish, and after a while, the marinated mackerel arrived. Wow! This marinated mackerel was visually stunning with a beautiful blue hue, large, thick, and rich in fat—absolutely delicious! It was certainly worth the price. The wasabi greens, pickled in soy sauce, had quite a kick and made for an excellent accompaniment to the drinks. Next, I added some skewers of kushi-katsu (fried skewered meat) and liver, and the order for skewers starts at two pieces. While waiting, my beer ran out, and I opted to switch to a highball. I was tempted to pair the wasabi greens with sake, but since I had ordered skewers, I opted for the versatile highball instead. When the kushi-katsu and roasted liver arrived, I ordered them simply because they are my favorites; they may not represent Takayama itself, but they were quite tasty. Drinking in this calm, folk-art styled establishment gave me a feeling of really being in Takayama, making everything taste even better. It was a great meal!