The Golden Gai (ゴールデン街) is a name for a small area in Shinjuku (新宿) and is a must-see during any trip to Tokyo. It consists of hundreds of tiny bars crammed into a few narrow streets. The bars are minuscule, some only seating three patrons at a time, and whilst some bars are members only – those open to foreigners make a unique place to head for a drink.
The area known as Kabukicho (歌舞伎町)is Tokyo’s largest red light district and close by is Shinjuku ni-chome, the city’s largest gay district. Both areas are always packed with people and give a pretty interesting insight of Tokyo nightlife. Other than these areas, you’ll find the usual selection of restaurants and izakayas lining the main roads from the station.
Gay Clubs in Tokyo
If you are looking for live music, Vagabond is the place to go. If you are curious about Japan gay bars, head to Arty Farty or The Annex Bar at Shinjuku ni-chome. Arty Farty attracts diverse crowd – where gays, lesbians and straight partners can either dance till dawn or enjoy meeting new people of various kinds. Drinks are reasonable at around 600 Yen. Finally, if you fancy something a bit more luxurious, visit Park Hyatt Tokyo whose New York Bar has great views of the city and was famously one of the main sets in the movie – ‘Lost in Translation’.
How to Get There
JR Yamanote Line, Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Keio Line, Odakyu Line, Seibu Shinjuku Line, Chuo Line, Sobu Line, Toei Shinjuku Line, Oedo Line, Fukutoshin Line, Marunouchi Line.
→ Click here for tips on how to book Cheap Hotels Near Shinjuku Station
