Meeting Locals: How to Strike Up Conversations and Make Friends on Your Nagoya Pub Crawl

A pub crawl in Nagoya is a fantastic opportunity to explore the city's lively nightlife and immerse yourself in its rich drinking culture. One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience is the chance to connect with local residents and make new friends. In this guide, we'll share some tips on how to strike up conversations and engage with locals during your Nagoya pub crawl.

1. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases:

While many people in Japan understand some English, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in breaking the ice and making a good impression. Simple greetings like "Konnichiwa" (hello) and "Konbanwa" (good evening) can open the door to conversations. Additionally, phrases such as "Eigo wa jouzu desu ne" (Your English is good) and "Oishii!" (delicious) can spark further dialogue.

2. Be Open and Approachable:

Showing genuine interest and curiosity about the local culture and people will encourage them to engage with you. Maintain a friendly and approachable demeanor, smile, and maintain eye contact. Demonstrating a positive attitude can make others feel more comfortable initiating conversations with you and is a big part of Japanese culture. In general, positive attitudes are maintained and complaining or anything similar is discouraged.

3. Share Your Travel Experiences:

Sharing your experiences and stories from your travels can be a great conversation starter. Locals are often curious about what brings you to their city and may be interested in learning about your culture and perspective. Be open to answering questions and sharing your impressions of Nagoya and Japan as a whole. And really, prepare your answer beforehand. When you're asked "Why did you come to Nagoya" or "What do you like most about Nagoya", the answer doesn't come as easily as you might hope. The pub crawl is a great reason, by the way.

4. Ask Open-Ended Questions:

Engage locals by asking open-ended questions about their recommendations, favorite spots, or hidden gems in the city. Questions like "What's your favorite local dish?" or "What's a must-visit place in Nagoya?" can lead to more in-depth conversations and create a sense of connection. You'll learn a bunch about the things to do in the area too. We've said it before but we'll say it again: Nagoya is best experienced by living in it – and that's just because it can take time to find the gems and what's really fun here. Ask a local and you bypass that learning curve, and they love to share it too. Believe us when we say they don't get asked about Nagoya often, neither by tourists or other Japanese.

5. Be Respectful of Cultural Differences:

It's essential to be mindful of cultural differences and avoid making assumptions about people's backgrounds or beliefs. Be open to learning from others and respect their opinions, even if they differ from your own. Remember that politeness and respect are highly valued in Japanese culture. The Japanese opinion is far more diverse than you might expect, so just roll the dice and see what comes out. Hopefully it's not nationalist garbage, but hey, if it is that, then you've got a story for your friends back home.

6. Offer to Buy a Round of Drinks:

An easy way to break the ice and make friends is to offer to buy a round of drinks for your new acquaintances. This gesture is universally appreciated and can create a friendly atmosphere that encourages conversation and camaraderie. Be aware, though: usually the elder person buys drinks for the younger. This is the senpai<>kouhai dynamic you may have heard of before. If you're the youngest in the group, you're in luck – just smile, look pretty and enjoy the drinks!

7. Participate in Local Drinking Traditions:

Joining in on local drinking traditions, such as toasting with "Kanpai!" (cheers) or participating in group games, can help you bond with locals and make lasting memories. Be open to trying new drinks and experiences, but remember to drink responsibly and know your limits. We mostly say that because we don't want to carry your heavy drunk body around. We'll do it if we have to but jeez, rather not. Anyways, drinking. Never take a sip before you say kanpai. It's like giving a big "eff you" and a middle finger to everyone else at the table. Well, not really, but the Japanese reaction to this will certainly make you think so.

8. Exchange Contact Information:

If you've had a great conversation and established a connection with someone, don't hesitate to exchange contact information. Social media platforms like LINE and Instagram are popular in Japan, making it easy to stay connected and continue the conversation even after your pub crawl has ended. The nature of your relationship with this local is none of our business, but if you need a wingman then...Uh, nevermind...(but no, seriously).

By following these tips, you'll not only create meaningful connections with locals but also enhance your Nagoya pub crawl experience. Embrace the opportunity to learn from the people you meet and immerse yourself in the city's dynamic social scene.