|
Tokyo's nightlife and entertainment options run the full gamut, from grand Kabuki theatres and cinemas to broom-cupboard bars and live music venues (known as "live houses"). The distinction between restaurants, bars and clubs in the city's sakariba (lively places), such as Ginza, Shibuya or Shinjuku, is a hazy one, with many places offering a range of entertainment depending on the evening or customers' spirits. On the cultural side, you can sample all Japan's major performance arts in Tokyo, from stately No , the oldest in its theatrical repertoire, to Buto , the country's unique contribution to contemporary dance. However, if you only have the energy, or budget, for one such cultural experience, then save it for Kabuki , with its larger-than-life heroes, flamboyant costumes and dramatic finales. Information about these and other performances is available in the English-language press, notably Tokyo Journal , and from Tokyo TIC . Alternatively, ring Teletourist (tel 03/3201-2911; 24hr) for recorded details of what's on. Tickets are available from theatres and ticket agencies. |
Tokyo Bars And Izakaya. The authentic Japanese bar - smoky, cramped, exclusively male and always expensive - is the nomiya , often containing nothing more than a short counter bar, generally run by a mama-san , a unique breed who both charm and terrorize their customers, and who are less likely to rip you off if you speak some Japanese (but that's no guarantee).
Tokyo Clubs And Discos. The chameleon-like nature of the city's nightlife, fuelled by an insatiable appetite for new trends, means that Tokyo is one of the most exciting, but also unpredictable places in the world to party. While some clubs weather the vagaries of fashion, it pays to check the media before heading out.
Tokyo Gay Bars And Clubs. Take advantage of the relatively open gay and lesbian scene in Tokyo; in the rest of Japan (even in big cities like Osaka), things are a lot more cliquey and closeted. Even so, compared to London, San Francisco or Sydney, Tokyo's scene is a low-key affair.
Tokyo Live Music, Film And Cultural Events. There's always plenty going on culturally in Tokyo, though language can be a problem when it comes to performance arts. Colourful extravaganzas like Takarazuka or the more traditional Kabuki are the easiest to enjoy, but even the notoriously difficult No or Buto are worth seeing just once.