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Osaka Gay Scene
I have lived in Japan for a few years now, and I can tell with certainty that Osaka has one of the most unusual gay scenes in Japan. Tokyo’s Nichome is large and receives many visitors, but Osaka’s Doyama is definitely special in its character and scope. Osaka’s bedtime life, including its gay scene, can largely be divided into two areas: the Kita (north) side including Doyama near Umeda Station, and the Minami (south) side with Namba and the Dotonbori Canal.
Osaka is known for having a tight yet diverse community, and there are a multitude of bars and spots to hang out at that are almost too numerous to count. However, my favorite block where I always end up is Grand Slam because it is colorful and gaudy, everyone stops there, and is a great place to run into friends and regulars. There is also Explosion just around the corner, a small club that gets very lively at their frequent events, with at least one almost every weekend. And travelers can't miss Eagle Osaka, the newest addition to Doyama's nightlife.
While thes
A Guide to Queer Bar Etiquette in Japan
Tokyo’s famous homosexual district, Shinjuku Ni-Chome, has one of the world’s top concentrations of LGBT-friendly businesses. For the most part, its a place where first-timers can hook out without needing to worry too much about extraordinary customs or cultural knowledge.
Ni-Chome is used to tourists but, those who hope for to sneak into smaller, more local LGBT bars might find some cultural practices surprising. In Japan, manners are everything, so here are some insider tips on what to expect when visiting LGBT bars off the overcome path, and how to get the most out of the experience.
Venturing away from westernized male lover bars
Photo by: Alex Rickert Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, but sometimes you gotta project into the unknown.
Most gay bars in tourist spots fancy Ni-Chome or Doyamacho in Osaka mimic American-style bars that feature large shot bars, dance melody and dark atmospheres where customers of various sexes, genders, sexualities and identities can drink and make merry. You can certainly detect these kinds of bars, esp
Gay Shinjuku: Exploring Tokyos vibrant LGBTQ+ hub
Introduction to Shinjuku Ni-chōme: Tokyo's lgbtq+ district
Shinjuku Ni-chōme, often referred to as simply Ni-chōme or Nichō, is Area 2 in the Shinjuku District of Tokyo. This small yet lively neighborhood is the epicenter of Japan's gay subculture, boasting an estimated male lover bars and nightclubs within just five blocks. Located within walking distance from Shinjuku Station, the world's busiest train station, Ni-chōme is easily accessible and a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ travelers and allies.
The area offers a diverse range of establishments, including bars, restaurants, cafes, saunas, love hotels, gay event boutiques, and even cruising spots known as hattenba. This concentration of LGBTQ+-friendly venues creates a safe and welcoming environment for the community to declare themselves freely. Ni-chōme's one-of-a-kind atmosphere is characterized by its bustling energy, colorful signage, and the friendly camaraderie among patrons and staff alike.
Rainbow Flag at Gapan Cafe, Shinjuku 2-Chome, Tokyo
History and evolu LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Japan
Interesting Cities to Visit in Japan
TOKYO
Tokyo is the capital, and main transport hub of Japan. On one hand its a very modern city, with neon-lit skyscrapers, but on the other, its very traditional with historic temples and palaces, like the Meiji Shinto Shrine and the Imperial Palace. Tokyo is also a foodies paradise, with many small izakayas (small gastro pubs) and the worlds largest fish market, Tsukiji. Shinjuku Ni-Chõme is where the citys gay bars and clubs can be found. It is legendary for having the worlds highest concentration, with over tiny gay bars crammed together in unassuming, unremarkable blocks. Some of the most famous include Arty Farty, Annex, FTM Bois Bar, Campy!, Aiiro, Dragon Men and Leo Lounge. Read more about Tokyo from Passport Magazine >>
KYOTO
Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan, and was the former capital city until when it was moved to Tokyo. It has retained its regal charm, with beautiful temples and intricate gardens. The most known are the Golden Temp
LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Japan
Interesting Cities to Visit in Japan
TOKYO
Tokyo is the capital, and main transport hub of Japan. On one hand its a very modern city, with neon-lit skyscrapers, but on the other, its very traditional with historic temples and palaces, like the Meiji Shinto Shrine and the Imperial Palace. Tokyo is also a foodies paradise, with many small izakayas (small gastro pubs) and the worlds largest fish market, Tsukiji. Shinjuku Ni-Chõme is where the citys gay bars and clubs can be found. It is legendary for having the worlds highest concentration, with over tiny gay bars crammed together in unassuming, unremarkable blocks. Some of the most famous include Arty Farty, Annex, FTM Bois Bar, Campy!, Aiiro, Dragon Men and Leo Lounge. Read more about Tokyo from Passport Magazine >>
KYOTO
Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan, and was the former capital city until when it was moved to Tokyo. It has retained its regal charm, with beautiful temples and intricate gardens. The most known are the Golden Temp