Outdoor beer gardens can be found around the world, and a particularly unique variety is seeing increasing popularity throughout Japan. During summer months, beer gardens on the rooftops of department store buildings provide a refuge high above the teeming, sweltering maze of Tokyo and other large cities. While some may be decorated with Japanese lanterns and carp ponds, the Japanese beer garden tends not to have the botanical charm of their European cousins and instead provides a refreshing sanctuary from the discomforts of city life in the summer. Drinks are usually served in typical nomi-houdai fashion(all-you-can drink) for up to two hours, with the same option often offered for food (tabe-houdai).