Exploring Hostess Bars: Lounges and Clubs in Roppongi

Welcome to the enchanting world of hostess bars, a quintessential experience in Japanese nightlife that has captivated the curious. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the nuances of these establishments, the refined lounges, and high-class clubs so you won’t get them confused with host clubs. Discover the services that tantalize patrons and the intricate systems that govern high-class hostess shops. Join us as we journey through Roppongi, the bustling heart of Tokyo's nightlife, where you'll find a variety of hostess bars offering distinctive experiences, each with its own charm. Whether you're an experienced patron or a first-time explorer, this guide will unveil the secrets and nuances of hostess bars, ensuring your night is filled with unforgettable memories.

Why Roppongi Has an Abundance of Hostess Bars and Cabarets

Roppongi's reputation as a hub for nighttime entertainment businesses can be attributed to several factors. Initially, after World War II, Roppongi housed an American military base, introducing American culture and nightlife, which led to the establishment of Western entertainment styles. As economic development progressed, numerous companies chose Tokyo as their headquarters or office location, fostering Roppongi's growth as a bustling business district. Consequently, many salarymen and business professionals started frequenting Roppongi for their nightlife entertainment.

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The area also witnessed a surge in international exchange, drawing expatriates and tourists, resulting in a diverse cultural and entertainment scene. To cater to this multinational clientele, numerous nightlife establishments emerged.

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Moreover, Roppongi's appeal as a sightseeing and shopping destination attracted a significant influx of tourists, solidifying its status as a popular nightlife hotspot. These historical, economic, and international factors coalesce to establish Roppongi as a thriving hub for nighttime entertainment.

Types of Hostess Bars

Delve into the fascinating world of hostess bars, where the night comes alive with beauty, conversation, and charm. Hostess bars, often referred to as hostess clubs, go by various names, including kyabakura (cabaret), luxury lounges, and clubs. They are a prominent part of Japan's nightlife scene. These establishments primarily employ female staff to serve male patrons with drinks and engage in conversation.

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Hostess clubs are integral to Japan's nighttime entertainment industry and the main difference between these services is the (指名) shimei, requesting a specific hostess. Some places have an eikyu shimei (永久指名) where a patron selects a hostess on their first visit and continues to interact exclusively with her. In other words, it means that the same hostess, who was permanently designated by the customer, will attend to them every time they visit the store. In contrast, some bars allow patrons to choose from any hostess present. Here we will focus on lounges and bars, where you can enjoy drinks with girls in a slightly higher class of hostess bar!

Lounges

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In the nightlife scene, lounges offer flexibility not commonly found in traditional clubs. While some high-end lounges may have membership systems, some lounges don't require such formalities. What makes lounges stand out is their adaptability. Unlike clubs with fixed seating, lounges allow patrons to change companions freely, similar to cabaret clubs, creating spontaneous and comfortable social interactions. Lounges, like clubs and cabarets, are managed by a "mama" figure, but they distinguish themselves with a collaborative service approach. Instead of individual hostesses, the entire team collaborates to ensure great customer experience, emphasizing both sales and guest enjoyment, offering a unique aspect of nightlife.

Clubs

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Clubs are significantly different to night clubs and represent the elite tier of such establishments. It has a significant presence in the nightlife scene, often requiring memberships, especially in high-end venues. These clubs feature premium pricing, attracting an older crowd, and are managed by a "mama" or hostess. Patrons enjoy unhurried, unlimited time in a serene atmosphere, setting clubs apart in the nightlife experience.

System of High Class Hostess Bars

Uncover the intricate workings of high-class hostess shops, where exclusivity, decorum, and opulence combine to create a unique atmosphere. Learn what sets them apart.

High-end Lounge

• Ideal for those who appreciate attractive women.
• Perfect for those seeking natural and relaxed conversations.
• Well-suited for infrequent visitors, such as those who visit once every few months due to the high costs.
• Known for employing many young and attractive women.

Clubs

• Ideal for engaging in discussions about politics, business, and more.
• Prefer sophisticated and elegant hostesses.
• A desire for top-notch customer service.
• A need for unhurried enjoyment without time constraints.

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Many Japanese businesses will choose to host a meeting with business clients or partners at these establishments. They are a great choice for corporate entertainment.

Prices of Hostess Bars

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Comparing the prices of snack bars or girls bars to lounges and clubs reveals a significant increase. In hostess clubs, various charges contribute to the overall cost

Set Fee

The set fee, charged hourly (typically in 50 minute periods), includes the cover charge and house bottle fee. Prices range from 3,000 JPY to 8,000 JPY.

Service Fee

An additional 10-30% commission is applied to the bill for the cabaret girls' services, in addition to the standard 10% consumption tax, as of October 2023.

Credit Card Fee

When using a credit card, expect a 10%-20% handling fee in many clubs. In hostess clubs, cash is the preferred payment method due to the substantial administration fees associated with credit card transactions.

Nomination Fee

If you wish to have a specific hostess join your table, a nomination fee applies, typically ranging from 1,000 JPY to 3,000 JPY.

Extension Fee

Exceeding the set-charge time incurs additional costs. Up to 30 minutes may cost between 3,000 JPY and 5,000 JPY, while an extra 60 minutes typically ranges from 5,000 JPY to 10,000 JPY.

Food and Drink Charges

Drink charges, separate from bottle charges included in the set fee, apply when ordering drinks not included in the set or treating a hostess to a drink. Drinks typically cost around 1,500 JPY, while bottles can range from 4,000 JPY to several million yen. Food prices vary widely, from 1,000 JPY to 30,000 JPY.

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Image Source: https://www.chick.co.jp/roppongi/en/floor/

Things to Look Out For

For newcomers and foreigners, hostess bars can present unique challenges, from entry requirements to language barriers. The high class venues primarily cater to members, necessitating membership or joining as a guest of an existing member. Due to their higher costs, the clientele is often composed of wealthy businessmen. However, there are some high end clubs that don’t require you to be a member to enter.

As these are high class establishments, be respectful to not engage in inappropriate behavior toward the hostesses. Additionally, some places are unable to accommodate guests dressed in attire such as shorts, sandals, or overly casual clothing.

Introducing Roppongi’s High Class Hostess Lounges Bars and Clubs

Get a glimpse of the hostess bars that paint the vibrant tapestry of Roppongi's nightlife. From classic establishments to contemporary gems, we highlight a selection of venues. Take a tour through Roppongi, Tokyo's nightlife epicenter, and explore the hostess bars that call this district home. Here are some high class hostess bars which don’t require you to be a member to join so be sure to visit.

Recommended Lounge Bars

Introducing lounge bars with a slightly elevated sense of luxury compared to lounges.

1.FUSION Lounge

The Roppongi-based FUSION Lounge is a well-established, exclusive members-only venue often referred to as "Fusion." It's noteworthy that a substantial number of the female staff members at Fusion Lounge are half-Japanese, and many of the attendants are proficient in English. Therefore, if you're not entirely comfortable with your Japanese language skills, this lounge is highly recommended.

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[Address]

• 106-0032 Tokyo, Minato Ward, Roppongi, 7-14-1, Hosho Roppongi Bldg. 3F

[Opening Hours]

• 8:00 pm - 1:00 am
• Closed: Sunday, Holidays

[Price]

• Basic Charge: From 10,000 JPY for 60min

Website: https://fusionlounge.jp/

2.ACERO

ACERO Lounge, which debuted in February 2022, operates as a members-only establishment. While a membership is a prerequisite for lounge access, the exceptional level of satisfaction it offers more than justifies it. This lounge consistently draws a discerning and remarkable clientele. Notably, its interior design exudes sophistication and finesse, setting it apart from other lounges, and thus, it remains a consistently favored destination to this day.

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[Address]

• 106-0032 Tokyo, Minato Ward, Roppongi, 4-11-1, Roppongi GM Bldg. 6F

[Opening Hours]

• 9:00 pm - Last
• Closed: Sunday, Holidays

[Price]

• 1 set: From 12,000 JPY for 60min

Website: https://acero.top/

Recommended Clubs

Introducing clubs with a slightly elevated sense of luxury compared to lounges.

1.Roppongi Club Chick

Explore Roppongi Club Chick, the epitome of Roppongi's nightlife scene. This establishment has garnered considerable media attention, making appearances in various movies and TV dramas. At Club Chick, you'll find an array of women, including established actresses, models, celebrities, and up-and-coming talents. The experience is elevated by the accompaniment of live piano music, creating a truly exceptional moment. Dive into a world of luxurious encounters and a relaxed ambiance, where quality time is our hallmark.

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[Address]

• 106-0032 Tokyo, Minato Ward, Roppongi, 3-8-18, Sankei 41 Bldg. 3F

[Opening Hours]

• 7:00 pm - Last
• Closed: Sundays & Holidays

[Price]

• Base Fee: From 5,000 JPY for 60min

Website: https://www.chick.co.jp/roppongi/en/

2.Feerique

The Name is derived from the French word "féérique," meaning "as beautiful as the world of dreams." It is a word used to convey the pursuit of feminine cuteness and beauty. You can't take your eyes off the fresh sensibility and glamor. Above all, the presence of attractive women with dreams and full of vitality is the reason why they are able to present a fulfilling time that pleasantly stimulates the senses of those who feel that realism is not enough.

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[Address]

• 106-0032 Tokyo, Minato Ward, Roppongi, 3−8−15, Seryna Village, 3F

[Opening Hours]

• 8:00 pm - 1:00 am
• Closed: Weekends & Public Holidays

[Price]

• Base Fee: From 33,270 JPY for 90min

Website: http://club-feerique.co.jp/

Conclusion

As we conclude our guide to hostess bars, we hope you've gained insights into this captivating aspect of Japanese nightlife. Whether you're a seasoned patron or a first-time visitor, the world of hostess bars promises unforgettable experiences, where beauty and charm meet to create memorable nights. Explore, enjoy, and create cherished memories in the world of hostess bars.