JAPAN IN
ONE MINUTE 
~ From Kanpai to Etiquette: Understanding “Nomikai“, Japan’s Drinking Culture ~
Hey Issy, I’m going to have a “Nomikai” with some Japanese friends soon.
Is there anything I should know in advance?
What’s a “Nomikai“?
“Nomikai” is a Japanese drinking party at night,
usually after work or on holidays with colleagues, friends, or business partners.
Wow, that sounds fun!
Most happen in an Izakaya, a casual Japanese pub.
It starts with “Kanpai!” It means cheers.
When you join a “Nomikai” with your boss, it is polite for subordinates to pour drinks for their superiors.
When pouring, use both hands.
This time it’s a “Nomikai” with friends, so I don’t need to worry about that.
Right. In a “Nomikai” with your boss,
it’s considered good manners to notice when their glass is empty and pour them more right away.
Wow… it sounds like “Nomikai” might not be very relaxing for subordinates.
Many Swedish people like to drink, but we don’t have a “Nomikai” culture, so this feels new to me!
Instead of at night, we have a culture called Fika, kind of like a coffee break.
At that time, anyone can talk freely, so even subordinates can relax without alcohol.
It’s often said that many Japanese people are shy and don’t share their true feelings with strangers or colleagues.
But at “Nomikai“, alcohol often makes them open up.
Some become friendly and talk honestly, but others may get too loud,
say rude things or behave inappropriately.
Really? Alcohol changes quiet Japanese people?
Yes. I think one reason is that Japan’s long working hours and high stress push people to drink as a way to unwind.
Ah, so “Nomikai” can be both a fun icebreaker and… a bit risky.
I don’t drink much myself because it makes me sick so sometimes, I just watch.
And honestly, it’s a little disappointing when alcohol changes someone’s personality for the worse.
Yeah, I get that. I guess the key is to enjoy it in moderation.
Alcohol is scary… Okay, I’ll do Kanpai with milk!
Summary
A “Nomikai” is a Japanese drinking party, often held after work at a “Izakaya“, where colleagues or friends bond over drinks with certain social etiquette. While it helps people open up and relax, it can also bring risks if alcohol leads to excessive or inappropriate behavior.
