How a Wrestler’s Passion Created a One-of-a-Kind Bar

Taylor Hamada (Kyoto)


Arashi Danjiro is a dynamic force who weaves his diverse talents into a vibrant tapestry of creativity and athleticism. As a professional wrestler, he captures audiences with his impressive moves and engaging presence, building a career that has soared since his university days. His creativity also shines through in his work as a graphic designer, where he creates visuals that are both striking and imaginative.

Danjiro skillfully attends to customers with an acrylic cut-out of his dynamic wrestling persona in the foreground.

In the seaside town of Miyazu, Kyoto, Danjiro channels his passions into Top Rope Shot Bar, where his love for wrestling and anime come together in a space that reflects his personality. Filled with wrestling memorabilia and anime-inspired decor, the bar offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience shaped by Danjiro’s creative vision. Whether he is performing in the ring, designing graphics, or running his distinctive bar, Danjiro’s life is a celebration of his many talents and interests.


Since graduating, I have always been a professional wrestler, not as a job, but as a volunteer. Before owning Top Rope Bar, I worked as a designer in Osaka. In 2017, when I returned to my hometown of Ayabe City, Kyoto Prefecture, I decided to become a business owner. I had never worked at a bar before, but I wanted to try something new, so I decided to open a bar.

Local ALTs enjoy exclusive drinks while watching Danjiro showcase his wrestling prowess at a taped event.

The theme is not completely about professional wrestling, but also anime and other Japanese subcultures in general! The theme is subculture, but we are particular about alcohol, and it’s a simple bar that you can enjoy! 

There are items that will delight wrestling fans, such as a replica Tiger Mask mask and a bronze statue of Antonio Inoki. There are also autographs of famous wrestlers on display, such as Tatsumi Fujinami, Great Kabuki, and Master Wato! Most of the autographs are from wrestlers that I have actually met.

A collection of wrestling and anime memorabilia greets guests at the entrance of Danjiro’s Top Rope Shot Bar.

It all started with a request from Hachi House, a guesthouse in Miyazu, to hold a small wrestling event! From there, various people got involved, and we held a big event in Miyazu. Many of our guests saw me wrestling for the first time in person!

As a wrestler, my life has expanded into a world I’ve never seen before. I’ve been able to meet many different people and travel to places I’ve never been. I’ve also been able to experience many things that I would never have been able to experience if I hadn’t become a wrestler! As a bar owner, I meet a lot of customers and listen to their stories, which broadens my world. I feel like it has enriched my life!

It’s important to try anything you want to do! I also think it’s essential to understand the local area and the people involved in what you want to do.

I would like to continue at my own pace, little by little, increasing my recognition (as a bar owner and professional wrestler). I want to continue performing professional wrestling as my artistic endeavor for a long time. My dream is to still be a professional wrestler into my 50s!

The vibrant exterior of Danjiro’s Top Rope Shot Bar suggests an unforgettable time.

Arashi Danjiro is a multi-talented professional wrestler and graphic designer who brings his creative flair to the ring and beyond. As the owner of Top Rope Shot Bar in Miyazu, Kyoto, he combines his passion for wrestling with a unique bar experience. Come visit his bar for the electric atmosphere and follow him on Instagram @bar_toprope.

Taylor Hamada is an elementary school teacher and content creator in the countryside of Northern Kyoto. She loves her community on the Sea of Japan and enjoys reading, writing, and playing with her cat. You can find her on Instagram @tanoshiitravel.