A popular chain of pubs in Tokyo Tori Yaro surprised its customers in the district Shibuyaintroducing an unusual rule – upper age limit of 39 years. Information about the restriction appeared in front of the premises, quickly attracting the attention of passers-by and the media. In Japan, most establishments set a minimum age for visitors, but the upper limit is a rare and extremely unusual phenomenon.
However, people over 40 are not completely excluded. They can visit an izakaya under certain conditions – for example, if they are accompanied by a younger person or if they are related to the establishment’s staff or business partners. Toshihiro Nagano, representative of Tori Yaro, explains that the new regulations are not discriminatory.
“Older customers often complained about the noisy atmosphere, hence the decision to introduce a limit. This is a way to ensure that all guests leave the premises satisfied. We explain that our restaurant is noisy. We ask if this suits anyone. If so, and if anyone despite his age, he is still a 20-year-old in spirit, so he is welcome” – he said in an interview with Japan Today.
The purpose of these activities is primarily matching the character of the premises to the people visiting it. The pub wants to maintain a youthful, energetic atmosphere that attracts a specific age group and promotes joyful, dynamic meetings. The introduction of an upper age limit is therefore intended to help preserve the climatewhich best suits younger customers, while not excluding older guests in unique situations.
