Enshūya Honten Takao
遠州屋本店 高尾
Asakusa & Kuramae · Izakaya
Long-standing izakaya near Minami-Senjū specializing in firefly squid (hotaru ika)—sashimi with two flavor preparations and a rarely-seen tempura version. Deep into the back alleys of old Asakusa.
- Approaching 100 years in business
- Open Thu–Mon 6pm–midnight (food last order 11pm)
- Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Google Maps rating 4.2 from 159 reviews
Set in a part of Tokyo that has nothing to do with tourism — a serious local favorite. They take standard izakaya menu items and elevate them with absurd precision and care. Not stiff at all: a renovated machiya, exactly what "Tokyo style" should mean. Show up around 8pm and you'll usually get a seat. If you're staying anywhere nearby, please go. I make the trip from far away to drink here.
— Asakusa Boy · Returns often
⚠️ Note: Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Call ahead for hotaru ika seasonal availability.
As seen on Instagram
Original post by @enshuya_takao
How to visit
- Address
- 1-35-5 Kiyokawa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours
- Thu–Mon 6pm–midnight (food L.O. 11pm); closed Tue–Wed
- Price
- $$
- Rating
- 4.2 ★ (159 reviews on Google Maps)
- English (?)
- Yes
- Reservations
- Recommended
Place data via Google Maps
First-timer tips
- Nearby pairing
- Pair with Unagi Obana (9 min northwest)
What makes it special
Enshūya is a throwback izakaya riding the nostalgia of Yanagibashi and the old shitamachi. The draw here is hotaru ika—delicate, slightly sweet, and dressed simply as sashimi or fried tempura. The post notes both preparations let you taste the squid’s natural umami. The venue itself carries retro charm; approaching 100 years in business, rooted in the Asakusa backstreets that inspired Ashita no Jō. Firefly squid is seasonal and nutrient-dense, making it a locally-aware pick. Rated 4.2★ from 159 reviews on Google Maps.
How to visit
Walk from Minami-Senjū or Tawaramachi station into the Yanagibashi/Kiyokawa alleys. Hours are Thu–Mon 6pm–midnight (food last order 11pm); closed Tue–Wed. Phone +81 3-3871-4355 to confirm seasonal specials and availability. Cash-friendly izakaya culture.
FAQ
What is hotaru ika and why is it special here?
Firefly squid is a small, sweet, tender squid best eaten fresh. Enshūya offers two sashimi preparations and a rare tempura version, highlighting the squid's natural umami and nutritional value—a seasonal delicacy.
Is this a tourist spot or local hangout?
Deeply local. Situated in the backstreets of old Asakusa near Yanagibashi, it draws long-time shitamachi residents and food-focused visitors aware of the area's heritage. Nearly a century old.