The number of people in Japan who don't drink has been increasing in recent years, especially among the younger
generation. If you have been to Japan before, you probably know that there are many
Izakayas. Izakayas are a type of informal Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks
and snacks. Around a decade ago, the majority of office workers wanted to go
there with colleagues after work, but as they decreased, people who
drink alone began to increase. On the other hand, some people have increased their
alcohol intake because they spend more time at home. Certainly, the opportunity of
drinking alcohol is increasing for me under COVID-19 restrictions, but as I am a responsible drinker, I
always watch my quantity of alcohol. Sometimes I think
about other country's situations. Has the number of people drinking increased or
decreased in your country during COVID-19?