*This AI-generated summary is based on reporting by TaiwanPlus and verified by newsroom fact checkers. Learn more about our policy here. 
 
Taiwanese Snack Bar Owner Brings Heart, Heritage to Osaka Nightlife 

In the heart of Kita-Shinchi, one of Osaka’s busiest nightlife districts, a small snack bar named Hanamizuki stands out not just for its warm atmosphere but for the Taiwanese spirit infused into everything from its food to its hospitality. 

The bar, named after the dogwood flower, is run by 59-year-old Li Chun-hua from Hualien, Taiwan—better known to locals as Yukari. Her easy charm and comforting presence have earned her a loyal following in the community, many of whom say the bar feels like a second home. 

“When [my customers] hear that I’m a Taiwanese ‘mama-san,’ they chat with me about Taiwan,” Yukari said. “Those who have been to Taiwan, those who don’t know about Taiwan, or those who want to visit Taiwan all ask me how everything is in Taiwan. They want to know where they can visit in Taiwan. The conversations would start from there and flow naturally.” 

Snack bars are a staple of Japanese social life, offering casual drinking spaces that often double as neighborhood gathering spots. While many such venues stick to tradition, Yukari sets hers apart with authentic Taiwanese cuisine rarely found in Japan. 

“I make [Taiwanese cuisine]. I used to make dumplings back home when I was young,” she said. “I make dishes Japanese people don’t normally have, like scallion oil chicken and radish omelets. Also, snacks like braised pork and rice noodles. You can’t get these in Japan.”