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. The first gay pride march was held in Tokyo in 1995, and it's now an annual event (in May) with over two thousand participants - the first spin-off lesbian march happened in October 1997. Every May there's also the Tokyo International Lesbian and Gay Video and Film Festival, and more films, comic books and television programmes are featuring gay characters as homosexuality has become trendy among the all-important metropolitan OL - "Office Lady" - market .
Shinjuku-Nichome , packed with bars and clubs, is the epicentre of Tokyo's gay world, and is as cruisey as it gets for Japan. Apart from the venues listed below, all in Nichome (the closest subway station is Shinjuku-Sanchome), there are several gay events held at clubs around the city, including Code , Liquid Room and Yellow - Tokyo Journal has some details in its Cityscope listings.
Ace , B2 Dai-ni Hayakawaya Building, 2-14-6 Shinjuku. House and garage still rule at this basement club (the old Delight ) just next to the cruising park in Nichome.
Arty Farty , 2-4-17 Shinjuku. A youthful scene at this bar on the corner with decor that is a cross between New Mexico adobe chic and a Christmas grotto. Open until 5am, and from 3pm on Sun for gay/straight events.
Club Zip , 2-14-11 Shinjuku. There's an English sign outside this classy and spacious bar, where it's possible to have a quiet drink without being ogled. No cover charge, and beers are a reasonable ¥600 (¥500 during happy hour). Daily 3pm-5am.
Fuji Bar , 2-12-16 Shinjuku. Cosy karaoke bar in the basement of the building around the corner from GB has a wide selection of English songs, in case you're in the singing mood. The crowd is a gay/straight mix. ¥100 per song. 7.30pm-2.30am, Fri & Sat till 4am.
GB , B1 Business Hotel T Building, 2-12-3 Shinjuku. Only for the boys, this basement bar is a long-standing pickup joint for Japanese and foreigners. Most gaijin come here first before exploring the more exotic corners of Nichome.
Kinswomyn , 3F Dai-ichi Tenka Building, 2-15-10 Shinjuku. Women-only bar, which has a more relaxed ambience (and lower prices) than many of Nichome's other lesbian haunts. Drinks are ¥700 and there's no cover charge. Daily except 8pm-4am.