Brewing from within, inviting from outside: Numazu's "Enchanting Beer & BAR" Experience

Numazu, the third-largest city in Shizuoka Prefecture, is renowned for its stunning scenery, including views of Suruga Bay, Mount Ashitaka, and even the distant Mount Fuji. About 3 kilometers south of the city center, at the mouth of the Kano River where it flows into Suruga Bay, lies Numazu Port—a bustling hub for both fishing and tourism. Stretching north and south from the port, visitors can explore spots like Senbonhama Beach, known for its picturesque white sand and pine trees, and the historic Numazu Imperial Villa built in the late Meiji era. These locations offer a glimpse into the tranquil and historically rich atmosphere of the area. Numazu's charm, cultivated from within and enriched by external influences, is also evident in its food and drink culture. ① Numazu Fishmarket Taproom (Photos 2–6) Craft beer is an essential part of Numazu's culinary scene today. Along the roughly 30-minute walk from Numazu Station to the port, you'll find several breweries and taprooms, attracting visitors eager for beer hopping. Among them, "Baird Beer" stands out as particularly famous. Founded in the early 2000s during Japan's craft beer boom by California native Bryan Baird and his wife, this brewery has become a bridge between Japan and the U.S. Initially a small-scale microbrewery producing just a few dozen liters, Baird Beer gained recognition for its authentic flavors and philosophy rooted in agriculture and natural ingredients. Today, it is one of Japan's leading craft beer brands. Although the brewery has since relocated to Shuzenji, the original Numazu Port location remains home to the "Numazu Fishmarket Taproom." With its playful log cabin-style architecture and prime location overlooking the port, the taproom welcomes many visitors. Baird Beer’s appeal lies not only in its taste but also in its thoughtful design and naming, reflecting a deep understanding of Numazu and Japan. For instance, "Numazu Lager" is brewed with soft water from Izu and features a label depicting ships moored at Numazu Port. "Wabi-Sabi Japan Pale Ale" incorporates local green tea and wasabi, with a label showcasing the shadowy elegance of traditional Japanese houses. "Black Ship Porter," inspired by the historic opening of Shimoda Port during the late Edo period, offers a bold bittersweet flavor and a striking design reminiscent of ukiyo-e art. The taproom also serves local dishes like fish and chips, complementing the beer selection. Sitting by the window, you can enjoy the amber hues of your beer while watching ships bathed in the sunset, their day's work done. The gentle ripples on the water enhance the serene and satisfying experience. Access: About 10 minutes by bus from Numazu Station Menu examples: Beer (500ml): ¥900, Beer sampler set (140ml x 3 types): ¥800, Numazu fish & chips: ¥950 ② Frank BAR (Photos 1, 7–10) Numazu has long been a retreat for dignitaries, as exemplified by the Imperial Villa. This history brought Western dining culture from Tokyo to Numazu early on, giving rise to a refined local food scene. One of the most iconic aspects of this culture is the "BAR" tradition. Numazu's city center near the station is home to many renowned bars, making it a hidden gem for bar enthusiasts. Among them, "Frank BAR," nearing its 60th anniversary, is a legendary establishment that has shaped and promoted Numazu's bar culture. The bar occupies a mysterious two-story Western-style building, with a spiral staircase leading to a counter and seating area. The term "BAR" itself originates from the counter bar setup in America, a cultural tidbit shared by the knowledgeable staff. The bartenders, top runners in their field, craft cocktails infused with local pride. For example, the "Sicilian Driver" uses blood oranges grown in the Nishura area along Suruga Bay, offering a striking color and refreshing citrus flavor. The bar's moody ambiance, combined with warm storytelling about Numazu's history, leaves a lasting impression of the city's rich cultural heritage. Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Numazu Station