Standing Drinking Ikoi (hereafter "Ikoi") is located in Akabane, Kita-ku, Tokyo, and is said to be a familiar name to all drinkers. Many bars in Akabane offer low-priced drinks for frequent patrons, such as cab drivers on their night shift, local regulars, and people on their way home from work....

Just one stop from Ikebukuro Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Shiinamachi Station is home to a complex, narrow bookstore district typical of private railway lines. As I walked through the lively, nostalgic scenery of bustling shops and restaurants, I gradually came across more and more bars. Many of the establishments are small, independent establishments, retaining the charm of the Showa era.