Shunsaishubo Anzu (Fukuroi izakaya)

Some men are drinking cheerfully at the counter seats with their faces all red. "I'm sorry about the commotion," the okami (female owner of the establishment) says as she puts out chopsticks for me. "I had better work more seriously, right?" She gives me a big smile. Because the okami works cheerfully, all the customers can have fun, dirink, eat, and go home happy. The wooden walls are chic. There is a round light shade of traditional Japanese paper. Among the sake bottles, I see sake made in Fukuroi, "Kokkou." I am glad to find a sake made in a local sake brewery, because I can feel the owners' love toward this city. Some regulars are relaxing on the tatami mats. "The taverns in Fukuroi are supported by their regulars, you know? The population growth rate of Fukuroi is the second highest in Shizuoka prefecture." I asked for the reason why. They laugh and say, "I think it's because of the warm climate and the environment in which people can raise their children easily. This city is really ordinary, but that's what's great about it." Its casual and laid-back atmosphere is a point of pride for Fukuroi. I think the generosity of Fukuroi, accepting of everybody, draws people here.

Regulars and couples are in the counter seats. Groups hang out on the tatami mats. Hospitality of the staff menbers lets you relax.