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In huge crowded urban areas like Tokyo and Yokohama, the amount of green space is relatively limited as pretty much all of the real estate is occupied by multi-story buildings and skyscrapers.  But during the summer months, people want to enjoy outdoor activities like barbecues and picnics, while not having leave the city.  So, local businesses responded to that demand signal and came up with a unique solution -- roof top parks.  Nowadays many of the large department stores in the greater Tokyo area have installed park-like green spaces on their uppermost floors, where there is open space to sit and relax, enjoy the view, eat a picnic lunch, etc.  Another fun roof-top option is the summertime "Beer Garden" (ビアガーデン).  Basically, an area is set-up with tables and charcoal grills, where groups of customers can enjoy barbecuing and drinking under the open sky.  More details about the Beer Gardens in Tokyo -- where they are, and how they work -- are explained in the articles linked at the bottom.  Of note, you don't need to go all the way up to Tokyo to visit a Beer Garden, since there is also one located in Yokosuka.  It is called "Digi-Q BBQ Terrace" and is located on the top (9th) floor of "More's City" department store near Yokosuka Chuo Railway Station.  The BBQ Terrace will provide grilling equipment and charcoal, cooler boxes, tables and even rain protection awnings.  It is open for noon/lunch and evening/dinner times.  BBQ Terrace offers various "set menu" combinations of meats, vegetables, and drinks at prices ranging from 1,650 yen to 15,400 yen.  There is also an option for customers to bring their own food and drinks.  Advance reservations are required, and English speakers are advised to contact BBQ Terrace via email: eng.cptokyo@gmail.com --- Also, free English language pamphlets explaining the operating hours, prices, and services are available at the BBQ Terrace entrance, so going there for a look-see and to pick-up a pamphlet would be a good way to get started.  Bottom line: The chance to enjoy the unique Japanese Beer Garden experience is only short walk away from the front gate of Yokosuka Navy Base.  We hope you will have the chance to go there!

Written by Goodfield

Links:

Yokosuka "Digi-Q BBQ Terrace" Beer Garden

デジキューBBQテラス 横須賀モアーズシティ店 (digiq.jp)

Tokyo Beer Gardens

Savoring Summer: The Ultimate Guide to Japanese Beer Gardens | byFood

Best Beer Gardens in Tokyo 2024 - Japan Web Magazine (jw-webmagazine.com)