Our Favorite Places of 2019

"On a dark side-street of Osaka’s Kurosakicho area, there’s a cozy little bar dedicated to Star Wars merchandise, all of it unlicensed knockoffs collected from all corners of the world. The bar, known as “Tavern Pachimon Wars” (pachimon roughly translates to what would be known as “knockoff” or “bootleg” in English), is the product of owner Shuichi Kimura’s years-long obsession with unofficial memorabilia from his favorite movie series. Shelves of lumpy-looking Darth Vaders, blue Boba Fetts, and Spanish-speaking Yodas fill the walls and counters. A pachinko game calls itself “Space Zero,” but bears unmistakable X-wings. It all adds up to a fascinating look at how the American pop-culture phenomenon has been interpreted in cultures all over the globe.  The bar, while small, is friendly and inviting. Die-cut shapes in the walls pulse with LEDs, creating a sci-fi atmosphere. Star Wars–themed drinks and food are on menu as well." - ATLAS_OBSCURA