Tokyo, Japan (WPVI) – Kosuke and Tomomi Chujo own a Philly-style bar in Tokyo, Japan, and together they are on a mission to make the perfect cheesesteak.

It all started with Kosuke’s love for Philadelphia, which dates back to his childhood in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. His family has lived in this historic neighborhood for nearly a century.

In 2011, Kosuke opened Nihonbashi Philly, initially serving Italian food. It has since evolved into a sports bar with a focus on cheesesteaks.

The couple traveled to Philadelphia in 2021 and 2023 to study cheesesteaks at many popular restaurants. What they created is a mix of their favorite ingredients, including rib-eye steak, American cheese, provolone cheese, mushrooms, fried onions, homemade “Cheese Whiz” and homemade bread.

Action News Community Journalists Matteo and Nick Iadonisi have dreamed of traveling to Japan since they were children, and their passion was further ignited by a chance encounter between Nick and the Chujos at a Philadelphia Eagles tailgate party in 2023.

That’s why they had to make a pit stop in Philly on their dream trip to Japan in June 2024 to tell their story.

Watch our video above to follow the incredible story from Tokyo.

To learn more about Nihonbashi Philly, follow them on Instagram or visit their website.

RELATED TOPICS: Pennsylvania woodworkers craft gift for Japanese Prime Minister