Good Time Charlie

Top choice in Kumamoto


Charlie Nagatani is a living legend, the 'Johnny Cash of Japan', the founding figure behind the nation's entire country-music scene, and an accomplished musician and songwriter. He earned the rank of Kentucky Colonel for his contributions to the world of country music (he runs the Country Gold Festival near Aso-san), and this bar is his home base.

Look for live music, a tiny dance floor and thousands of pictures on the walls. Charlie is now in his 80s, but he still plays nightly and tours regularly and is always happy to chat with visitors. Even if you don't care much for country music, a beer at Good Time Charlie's is an experience well worth detouring for.


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