As an island nation isolated from the outside world for more than 200 years, it was invariable that the eventual advent of foreigners – not to mention their dubious drinking habits – would create a stir. Step forward Kamiya: Japan’s first Western bar.

When Kamiya opened its doors in 1880 in a brown-tiled building in the old pleasure district Asakusa, it was undoubtedly at the sharp end of trendy. Fast forward 130 years and the t” word no longer applies. The dated décor and uniformed staff would be hard pushed to slip into the ‘historic vintage chic’ category. But it more than compensates its design deficit with its convivial atmosphere