Today I went on a solo trip to a local izakaya in Shizunai. To end the night, I decided to visit my favorite bar, "Gekko," and took a seat at the counter. I started with a gin and tonic. I asked about "Irori" and found out they were closed, not due to the master's illness but because it's a slow season. I'll have to reconsider my spring travel plans for next year. The bar was quiet for a Saturday night, with no other customers. I chatted with the bartender and ordered a Margarita, a cocktail with a delicious story behind it. Unfortunately, I didn't have any memorable stories to share this time. I then ordered a Caol Ila whiskey, enjoying the lovely aroma. For my last drink, I requested a Pink Gin with a bit more bitterness, a cocktail to lift my spirits for tomorrow. As another customer arrived and received their drink, I asked for the bill. It was another enjoyable bar experience. Thank you for the great time, Gekko. "Gekko," 2-2-7 Shizunai Honcho, Shinhidaka-cho, Hidaka-gun, Hokkaido 0:00-3:00, Closed on Sundays

Today I went on a solo trip to an izakaya in Shizunai, Hokkaido. After the izakaya, I headed to a bar called "Gekko." I started with a gin and tonic at the counter. It was a refreshing change after having sake. The bartender's drink was incredibly delicious. There were no other customers at first, but then a lively group of young people came in, adding a nice atmosphere to the bar. From "Peppermint Moon" to "Gekko," I have been coming to Shizunai to chase after racehorses for quite some time now. I finished the night with a whiskey at the hotel, choosing an Ardbeg Corryvreckan. It was a bold Islay malt, very peaty and smoky. It seems my taste in whiskey hasn't changed over the years. Maybe you could say there has been no progress in that regard? Anyway, it's time to wrap up. Thank you for the wonderful meal! "Gekko" 2-2-7 Shizunai Honcho, Shinhidaka-cho, Hidaka-gun, Hokkaido 00:00~3:00, Closed on Sundays.

Hidden gem under the moonlight ♫ #Moonlight #SecretBar #ExclusiveToRegulars #ShizunaiGourmet #HokkaidoGourmet

Such a stylish little shop in an unexpected place! This place definitely needs more recognition, the atmosphere is top-notch. Perfect for when you want to have a good drink! 🍸

Today is a solo bar-hopping trip in Shizunai. Winter in Hokkaido is cold, so it's convenient to stay in Shizunai without moving around too much. Let's finish at the members-only bar "Gekko". It was closed just a while ago, but more than half of the counter is already filled. It seems like they have a solid fan base, which is nice to see. Let's start with a Gimlet. This bar has a calming atmosphere, I've been coming here since the previous shop. It's getting tastier for sure. I had a chat with Azumi-chan and got some information from the gourmet master. Let's finish with a Hot Buttered Rum. Warm up with a hot cocktail before heading home. Thank you for the delicious meal! "Gekko" 2-2-7 Shizunaihoncho, Shinhidaka-cho, Hidaka-gun, Hokkaido.

I was surprised to find such a great bar in Shizunai. Most of the locals seem to frequent it, so the noise from conversations can be bothersome at times, but the selection of single malts is impressive. If you love malts, it's worth striking up a conversation with the master to explore more options. I stayed for three days for work, but ended up visiting for two days in a row. I visit Shizunai twice a year, and this bar is a must-visit every time.