In this edition, we would like to introduce a popular Japanese summer pastime known as the beer garden.  Beer gardens are commonly open from late May through September on the rooftops of hotels and major department stores.  As stated in the name, the popular drink is the ice-cold beer mug, but other drinks both alcoholic and non are available as well.  Prices may vary depending on location, dates, and menus.  If you’re in Japan during the hot summer months, spending an evening at a beer garden would be a nice refreshing treat.