Yakoboku – A Quiet Masterpiece in Kumamoto
While travelling through Kyushu, the third largest of Japan’s main islands, I found myself drawn not only to its dramatic landscapes—volcanic peaks, misty mountains, and sun-warmed coastlines—but also to a more intimate side of its culture: its bars. Kyushu is a place of quiet power and subtle beauty. Steaming onsen towns emerge from the hills, ancient castles rise from modern cityscapes, and everyday life moves with a harmony of old and new. From the slopes of Mount Aso to the neon glow of Fukuoka’s streets, the island feels both timeless and vibrantly alive. Amidst this backdrop, I discovered three exceptional bars that stood out for their creativity, atmosphere, and dedication to the craft. Yakobuko in Kumamoto, and Sebek and Kurayoshi in Fukuoka, each offered their own unique experience—places where the artistry of the drink was matched by the character of the setting. Join me as I share the stories and flavours of these memorable encounters—small but lasting moments from a journey through one of Japan’s most enchanting regions.
Hidden deep in the quiet backstreets of Kumamoto, there lies a place where time slows down and the world outside fades away — Yakoboku. A bar so exceptional that I found myself drawn back three times during my trip, and honestly, I would return tomorrow if I could. Yakoboku is not just any bar; it is a tiny, dimly lit hideout with comfortable bar seats and a small, smart menu — my perfect formula. What enhances the experience even further? It is run by Shinya Koba, who pour his heart into every detail, alongside a team that is as genuinely welcoming as one could hope for. You feel as though you are not merely ordering a drink — you are being personally invited into their world.
Nestled in the quiet backstreets of Kumamoto, Yakoboku feels less like a bar and more like a sanctuary. Housed within a 150-year-old traditional Japanese dwelling, the bar breathes history through its warm wooden interiors and soft ambient lighting, with every corner whispering a story. The space is intimate, almost secretive, with a warm wooden interior and bartenders who move like watchmakers — precise, thoughtful, and quietly passionate. The cocktails here are elegant and minimalist, each one balanced to perfection.
Yakoboku is not about spectacle; it is about presence, patience, and a deep respect for the craft.
In 2024, Yakoboku ascended twenty places to reach #64 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars, standing proudly as Kyushu’s sole representative. A significant achievement, but once you step inside, it makes perfect sense.
Yakoboku’s cocktail programme is a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation, highlighting fresh, local ingredients from the lush nature of Kumamoto. I nearly drank my way through the entire menu, except for the vodka-based options — simply because vodka is not my spirit of choice. Instead, I focused on drinks that felt rooted in place and creativity. Yakoboku’s cocktail menu is a symphony of flavours, each drink crafted with precision and creativity to offer a unique tasting experience. At the heart of the menu is the Yakoboku Cocktail, a floral, fruity, and complex blend featuring Tanqueray No.10 Gin, Snow Jasmine, Apple Soda, Citrus Agave Honey, and Maqaw Spice. This harmonious dance of flavours promises to enchant your senses. For those seeking a vibrant celebration of fruity notes and savoury undertones, the Papillon offers a tropical and umami-rich sensation with Spiced Rum, Banana, Tomato, Yoghurt, Agave Syrup, and Peach Bitters. The Kaminoura IPA is a refreshing burst of floral and tropical flavours, combining Tanqueray Gin, Cascade Hops, Tonic Water, and Passion Fruit for a lively sip.
Indulge in the bittersweet and sparkling creation of Mobo Moga, featuring Nikka Coffey Grain, Campari, Vermouth Rosso, San Pellegrino Chinotto, and Kamonone Sparkling, offering a refreshing twist with its fizzy and bitter notes. The Pistachio & Espresso cocktail is a rich and bittersweet blend of Ohishi Rice Shochu, Pistachio, Espresso, Walnut, Milk, Fermented Cacao Syrup, and Pink Pepper, providing a milky delight that combines nutty and coffee flavours for a truly indulgent experience. For those who enjoy a touch of mystery, the Imagination cocktail invites you to explore its flavours through creativity, guided only by a tantalising photo.
Refresh your palate with Walker’s Relaxation, where Johnnie Walker Gold mingles with Earl Grey Tea, Tomato Water, Bergamot, and Vetiver, offering a rich and umami twist perfect for a sophisticated sip. Discover elegance and complexity with Beni, a rich blend of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Homemade Rosso Vermouth, Peychauds Bitters, and Cherry, promising a refined tasting experience. The Kyushu Old-Fashioned delights with woody and rich notes, combining Bulleit Bourbon, Haze Tree Wax, Homemade Amaro, Bitters, Hinoki Wood, Orange Peel, and Mint for a classic cocktail with a twist. Finally, embrace the strong, dry, and fruity character of Kumamon 007, designed for those who appreciate bold flavours and a robust finish.
One evening, I ventured off-menu and requested a Shochu-based Bamboo cocktail, which quickly became one of my favourite drinks of my trip. The Bamboo cocktail itself is a classic from the late 19th century, believed to have been created at the Grand Hotel in Yokohama, Japan. Traditionally, it is a light, delicate mix of sherry and vermouth — an early East-meets-West creation during a time when Western-style cocktails were being adapted for Japanese palates. Yakoboku’s version, built around local Shochu, was smooth, nuanced, and full of character, perfectly embodying the spirit of innovation that permeates everything here.
Each cocktail at Yakoboku is crafted with care and creativity, offering a unique journey through flavours that reflect the artistry and dedication of its creators. Whether you prefer floral, tropical, or rich notes, Yakoboku’s menu promises an unforgettable experience for every palate.
I spent evenings at Yakoboku in Kumamoto, and it is easy to see why it made Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. The cosy atmosphere, great conversations, and carefully crafted drinks kept me returning. You can truly taste the passion behind every drink. If you are in Kumamoto and appreciate a well-made cocktail, this place is a must. The new menu was launched in April, providing yet another reason to return. Thank you, Yakoboku, for this incredible experience and for making my trip much more enjoyable.
