We're always on the lookout for new watering holes in the area. Basically that means Tokyo, Yokohama and the Kanagawa coast, but we'll happily go further afield if there's a good pint at the end of the journey...
It's not hard to get to Machida, it's just a bit of a let-down when you actually get there and emerge into the identikit suburban mall sprawl. But head away from the station and there are some mellow, low-rise streets — and several good pubs too.
Oktoberfest, which we discovered a few weeks back, stands out for several reasons. As the name suggests, It only serves German-style beer; it looks more like a cafe than a bier-keller; it's run by a woman, the friendly and welcoming Yachi-san (full-name Umagawa Yasuko); and she only opens on weekdays (weekends are for drinking excursions, she says).
She pulls a fine pint — this one from Shimane, was particularly flavourful.
Time for one more before heading along...
Oktoberfest, is a 5 minute walk from Machida Station:
4-16-21 Hara-machida, Machida-shi; tel: 042-810-2610
Here's a map link...
