Gay bars tokyo shinjuku
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I must've felt like a Karen and went for the provocatively named ¥1,100 White Girl Wasted. While the area centers queer experiences, it warmly invites all who bring respect and a spirit of allyship.
Stop by “Kanva,” a Creative Washoku Spot, Before a Night Out
Established in 2011, "Kanva“ offers inventive Japanese cuisine enhanced with global spices.
My husband got the ¥800 Tequila Sunrise. The staff speaks English too, which makes it great for visitors. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the mama here is absolutely lovely. While some Nichome bars are members-only or gay-only, Conto is a mixed bar open to all. The staff, predominantly bears, are friendly and speak a wide range of languages from Spanish to Chinese, while the décor, music and clientele give Eagle Tokyo the atmosphere of a Brooklyn lounge.
AiiRO had barely opened at 6PM, and regulars had already started to gather. By the way, in Shinjuku Nichome, it’s common to call bar owners or managers ‘mama,’ no matter their gender.” (Labianna)
A popular dish is the "Salted Fried Local Chicken with Meyer Lemon". Just because we dress boldly doesn’t mean boundaries don’t matter.
If you want to experience one of the best parts of Japanese bar culture – talking with and being entertained by the staff – but don’t quite know where to head for English-friendly banter, these five bars will fit the bill.
Café Lavandería
Café Lavandería is the kind of place where one minute you’re drinking and the next you’re suddenly filled with an overwhelming desire to smash the patriarchy and plan a revolution.
We snatched a table out front, and I almost became Old Man Wasted.
A Guide to Shinjuku Nichome: Dive into Tokyo's Vibrant Nightlife
What Kind of Place is Shinjuku Nichome?
Shinjuku Nichome has long been a hub for gay culture in Japan. Its tranquil, traditional-style interior makes it a cozy choice, even for solo diners.
And the weekend DJ events are free with just a drink order!" (Labianna)
There’s no entrance fee or cover charge—even during events.
AiiRO CAFE’s sister bar, "absorb," features sleek white tile decor and regularly hosts pop-up events by artists and creatives.
It’s a great place to experience Tokyo’s queer creative scene up close.
Chat and Sing at the Mixed Bar "Conto"
At "Bar Conto," drag queen and entertainer Baby Vaggy serves as the warm-hearted “mama.” Patrons enjoy drinks, conversation, and karaoke in a laid-back setting.
Bar
Located right on the main strip, this garish bar is owned and run by the pioneering drag queen Bourbonne. By Joseph Eddy
Whether it be dancing the night away at a club or drinking and meeting new people in a tiny dive bar, Shinjuku Ni-chome offers some of the best nights out in Tokyo. But hey, it was just the shank of the evening, and that's where AiiRO belonged on our itinerary.
For many, it became one of the few spaces where gay men could freely express themselves and connect with others.