The bartender boasts that he has over a hundred customers a day. But he also points out that it is the only water bar in Tokyo, so perhaps going out for water is not becoming a new trend. In fact, the Aqua Bar doesn't claim to be anything more than a gimmick to grab some attention for its sponsors, and also to showcase new products in a booming multi-billion yen market for natural waters. The bar stocks over 20 different natural water brand names from America, Canada, England, France, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, and Norway. And not all the water is drunk straight.
Water comes with bubbles, or without.
Overwhelmed customers can consult with the bartender, who will recommend some nice Canadian glacier water, or perhaps concoct a mixture of different natural waters. But since the establishment deals strictly with water, the average customer doesn't linger long. The bar does not serve any food, except perhaps an occasional mineral water-based fruit cocktail. Located in a tiny cool dark enclosure just off the kitchenwares section of the Seibu Ikebukuro Department Store, the minature bar is decorated entirely in black, with the cramped ambience of a small glacial cave. Rows of crystal glasses hang upside down over the bar like icicles.