Tokyo is not the capital city of the Earth, but unlike New York, we have everything you want and three things you didn’t know you did. This goes double for our LGBTQ+ friends. Tokyo is known for having one of the most vibrant gay nightlife scenes in Asia. Shinjuku Nichome is the heart of Tokyo’s gay nightlife, offering over 300 bars and clubs for every type of crowd. Each venue has its own unique atmosphere, theme, and community.
The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and genderqueer community have a home: its name is Shinjuku Nichome. Let us take you through some of the best bars.
KING Tokyo
KING Tokyo is the perfect place to start as a gay bar if you’re new to the city. A stylish and welcoming gay bar located in the heart of Shinjuku Nichome, it is known for its upbeat vibe, colorful interior, and energetic crowd. This bar is popular with both locals and international visitors. It often hosts themed nights and draws a younger, lively audience.
KINGDOM Tokyo
KINGDOM Tokyo offers a more edgy yet sophisticated space within Shinjuku Nichome. With its chic design and friendly staff, it appeals to those who want a sexy and stylish night out. The bar is especially known for its cocktails and casual conversations. Performances at the end of the week are the norm, as are good times.
QUEEN Tokyo
QUEEN Tokyo is a lesbian and queer women-focused fun and vibrant bar that makes you feel at home, almost before you’ve walked through the door. The space is filled with bright décor and the staff often dress in glamorous outfits. Visitors rave about the mix of dance performances and pop anthems, creating a lively night out.
SM Yamato
SM Yamato is your cozy-yet-wild hideout and the unique gay bar addition in the heart of Shinjuku Nichome. Known for serving some of the best and most creative cocktails in the area, we offer intimate counter seating, a lively party space with karaoke, and even the option to rent the bar for private events. With friendly, good-looking bartenders and the occasional surprise themed party, every night is a little different — and always unforgettable.
Alamas Cafe
Alamas Cafe is one of the most iconic gay bars in Nichome, often acting as a gathering spot before people head out to clubs. With its spacious setting, international crowd, and diverse drinks menu, it has become a staple of Tokyo’s gay nightlife. Many visitors describe it as a welcoming place for newcomers.
Dragon Men
Dragon Men is a gay bar that is not disreputable, but invite your reputation into a joint with flirty gogo boy dancers at your own peril. It doubles as a small dance floor later in the night. It’s particularly popular with tourists thanks to its English-friendly staff and welcoming vibe. The bar often fills up quickly, making it a lively and energetic spot. Get there early — or get there late, when the boys are bumping!
AiiRO Cafe
AiiRO Cafe is a street-side gay bar that’s perfect for casual drinking and people-watching. Located near the entrance of Nichome, it is often the first stop for many visitors. Its relaxed outdoor setting makes it stand out from other nightlife options. It is normal to spill out onto the street here, and making friends is par for the course, so come on down!
Campy! Bar – Shinjuku Nichome
Campy! Bar is a drag-themed gay bar created by the famous drag queen Bourbonne. It is vivified by playful energy, wild performances, and an inclusive vibe. The colorful setting and lively shows make it a must-visit in Nichome. There’s nowhere else you can can meet with gorgeous people with the smarts and style to make you start and stutter.
Rocinante
Rocinante is a bar that has to be seen to be believed. Based on the idea that gender is not a thing, it is helmed by a Mama-san who is as charming as he is knowledgeable. It has drinks you’ve never seen before (unless you’ve seen hornet vodka) and they have live music on occasion. But don’t worry: they vet their musicians to ensure they’re all above board, and won’t make you bored.
Bar Goldfinger
We’ve saved the best for last for our darling queer ladies. Bar Goldfinger is a Shinjuku Nichome icon. While anyone is welcome most nights, it is a haven for women who love women (trans women included). But if you’re a bi-woman and want to bring your boyfriend? Not on Saturday, you don’t! But if you want to hang with trans men? Monday is your night: trans men are the bartenders, al night. Call yourself Midas, because each night here turns to gold.
