#Japan #Tokyo #Craft Beer #Katsushika #GoodBeer&Friends

Reviving Katsushika: The Craft Beer Journey

The rapidly changing landscape of Katsushika has spurred an innovative project aimed at rejuvenating the local bar culture. The GoodBeer&Friends company, headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, is collaborating with Taiyo Ohno, the owner of the izakaya Torisakaba Haikara, to launch the "Katsushika Nonbe Craft Project." This initiative not only celebrates the traditional drinking culture of the area but also achieves a crucial milestone by successfully meeting its crowdfunding goal of 100%, signaling a strong desire among locals to breathe new life into Katsushika.

A Look Back: Katsushika's Drinking Culture

Once a bustling hub for locals and laborers, Katsushika was renowned for its lively drinking scene. Bars were filled with conversations and camaraderie, offering a refreshing escape after long days of hard work. Here, you could share a few quick drinks and create lasting friendships with fellow drinkers and local business owners alike. However, decades of changes in lifestyle and urban development have diminished this landscape. The sense of community that once thrived has eroded, causing a decline in traditional izakayas and the artisan culture that Katsushika was known for.

Taiyo Ohno, born and raised in Katsushika, has grown increasingly nostalgic for the vibrant social interactions of the past. Thus, he launched the Katsushika Nonbe Craft Project, driven by a desire to revive the essence of what made this community special.

The Three Main Goals of the Project

The Katsushika Nonbe Craft Project has clearly defined objectives:

1. Promote the Culture of Modern Drinkers: The goal is to attract a new generation of drinkers who appreciate the art of the local drinking culture, invigorating izakayas and bars through events where patrons can enjoy a variety of establishments.
2. Respect for Artisanal Craftsmanship: The project aims to cultivate an appreciation for local artisans, ensuring that those who craft beer and other products in the community receive the recognition they deserve.
3. Economic Revitalization: By increasing foot traffic and commercial engagement, the initiative seeks to establish a welcoming environment that compels visitors to return.

These goals are the cornerstone of the project’s mission to breathe new life into the area. To date, there are already two functioning initiatives supporting this endeavor.

Project Components: Craft Beer and Bar Hopping Events

Initiative 1: Creating the Original Katsushika Craft Beer

No discussion of a drinking culture is complete without beer, and the project focuses on creating the "Katsushika Nonbe Craft," a local craft beer that resonates with the community's history. This beer symbolizes the pride of craftsmanship rooted in the area and seeks to reinterpret the old drinking style in a contemporary context, featuring higher alcohol content to match today's preferences.

Initiative 2: Hosting the “Katsushika Nonbe Hashigo Yokocho 2026” Event

To engage both locals and newcomers, the project will introduce a bar-hopping event called "Katsushika Nonbe Hashigo Yokocho 2026 in Shin-Koiwa." Attendees will have the chance to indulge in the original Katsushika craft beer paired with signature dishes from a variety of participating restaurants. This event aims to deepen the connections between local food and drink while simultaneously showcasing the unique character of Katsushika.

Event Timeline

• - Event Duration: December 19, 2025 - June 30, 2026
• - Ticket Sale Period (Crowdfunding): October 31, 2025 - January 17, 2026

Attendees can purchase tickets through the ongoing crowdfunding campaign. In doing so, they not only secure their participation but also contribute to reviving the cultural essence of Katsushika.

Achievements and Community Response

The crowdfunding campaign for the Katsushika Nonbe Craft Project reached its 100% goal within two weeks of its launch, garnering enthusiastic support from both local and external communities. Many have expressed eagerness to participate, waiting excitedly for events to commence and strengthening the anticipation surrounding the revival of Katsushika.

The Role of GoodBeer&Friends in Local Revitalization

GoodBeer&Friends is committed to creating vibrant new markets and community spaces centered around craft beer. The success of the Katsushika Nonbe Craft Project serves as a promising model in this endeavor. By fostering collaboration between breweries, local businesses, and patrons, GoodBeer&Friends ensures that the community thrives and celebrates its unique identity.

The revival of Katsushika’s drinking culture is just the beginning. Over time, this initiative will expand into neighboring districts like Tateishi, Shibamata, and Kameari, weaving together the local fabric and inviting all drinkers to join in this exciting journey.

Let’s raise a glass to the transformation and rejuvenation of Katsushika together. Join the crowd on this thrilling venture!