Soh’s Bar
Soh’s Bar: A Quiet Retreat for Nostalgic Evenings and Classic Cocktails
If you’re after a spot that serves up more than just a drink, a brief walk from the New Furano Prince Hotel will take you down a path through the trees, leading to Soh’s Bar. Here, the night air gives way to an unmistakable shift in tone—this is not a place for rowdy revelry or gimmicky décor. Instead, Soh’s Bar offers a deliberate step back in time, a place where the soft glow of nostalgic tunes lures in those seeking a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.
You won’t find neon lights or happy-hour specials here. No, this is a setting that nudges you to pause and ponder who you’d like to bring along—preferably someone who can appreciate the past and doesn’t mind a bit of second-hand smoke. It’s worth noting: this bar isn’t a sanctuary for fresh air enthusiasts. Cigarette smoke is as much a part of Soh’s as the worn vinyl records playing overhead.
The Atmosphere
The walk through the forest sets the tone, but it’s the bar’s stone and wood design that seals the deal. Stepping inside feels akin to entering an alpine hideaway, all low lighting and plush furnishings that invite intimate conversation. There’s no loud clinking of glasses or raucous laughter here—it’s more likely you’ll overhear a quiet chat between friends or lovers enjoying a rare moment of peace. Think of it as the kind of place Bond might slip into after dodging bullets in the Alps—dimly lit, with an open fireplace and the sort of ambiance that exudes calm.
The oversize window facing the forest only enhances the feeling of solitude, as the trees beyond are bathed in soft light, making it an ideal setting for contemplation or a celebratory toast. But if you’re expecting a meal to go with your musings, temper those expectations. Soh’s Bar isn’t about feasting; it’s more about indulging in a well-crafted drink and, perhaps, a nibble or two.
Hors d’oeuvres and Liquid Offerings
Don’t come here expecting a full-course dinner, because Soh’s is all about sipping slowly and savoring the moment. A modest selection of hors d’oeuvres is available—there’s even a Furano cheese fondue if you’re feeling indulgent—but the real star of the show is the drink menu. Whether it’s a classic whiskey neat, a smooth glass of wine, or one of the expertly crafted cocktails mixed by the bow-tied bartenders, the drinks are intended to be savored, not rushed. And if you’re the kind who enjoys a good cigar with your drink, they’ve got that covered too.
A Few Things to Know
Now, Soh’s Bar is not for everyone. There’s a ¥300 seating charge, and you can’t escape the ever-present smoke. It’s part of the ambiance, so if the thought of sitting in a haze isn’t your idea of a good time, this may not be your spot. But for those who don’t mind—or perhaps even prefer—the smoky air and the absence of younger patrons, Soh’s offers a welcome break from modern life’s frenetic pace.
A Bar with a Backstory
Soh’s Bar isn’t just a random find in the forest. It was conceived by Soh Kuramoto, a local luminary and heavy smoker, best known for creating the long-running Japanese TV drama Kita no Kuni Kara. If you’ve ever spent time exploring Furano, you’ve likely seen spots made famous by the show, from the quaint Ningle Terrace to the rustic Café Akanara. Kuramoto’s influence on the area is undeniable, and Soh’s Bar fits right into that legacy—smoky, nostalgic, and a little bit timeless. It’s not shy about its mission either, with its name proudly declaring itself a “Bar for Miserable Smokers.”
Who’s It For?
Soh’s Bar draws in a particular crowd—those who appreciate a slower pace and a bit of solitude with their drink. It’s a retreat for the adult crowd, a place to unwind without the distractions of modern nightlife. No under-20s are allowed, and if you’ve got kids in tow, you’ll need to make other plans. Here, the emphasis is on enjoying the present moment, basking in the quiet, and maybe reflecting on the past while the oldies play softly in the background.
The Final Touch
As the evening winds down, you might be reluctant to leave this cocoon of calm. Fortunately, the staff at Soh’s are on hand to call a cab and send you on your way—likely back to Furano Lofts, a mere eight minutes away. It’s all part of the service, and it underscores the kind of thoughtful hospitality you can expect from this carefully curated spot.
With its Swiss-alpine feel, stone hearth, and no-frills approach to a good drink, Soh’s Bar isn’t for everyone—but for those who do step through its doors, it offers a rare opportunity to press pause, breathe in a little nostalgia (and quite a bit of smoke), and enjoy a moment of calm in an increasingly noisy world.
Key Information
- Reservations: Recommended
- Created by: Soh Kuramoto, screenwriter of Kita no Kuni Kara
- Theme: Bar for Smokers
- Location: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido (off the road to New Furano Prince Hotel)
- Telephone: 0167-22-1111 (New Furano Prince Hotel)
- Hours: 19:00 – 00:00 daily, open 7 nights a week