Introduction to Doyamacho
If you’re travelling in Japan, you’ll almost certainly be planning a stop at the Kansai food capital of Osaka. This bustling city is known for its quirky cuisine, phenomenal aquarium, and beautiful castle.
But you’re certainly going to want to sample some of that Osaka gay nightlife and, while Tokyoites might boast of Shinjuku Nichome, it’s all about Doyamacho here, baby.
Situated at the end of a cute shopping street just a ten minute walk from transport hubs Osaka station and Umeda station, exploring this district of fun and mischief is a must-do activity for any visitor to the city. While many bars are advertised as being aimed at LGBTQIA+ clients, most gladly welcome visitors from all across the sexuality spectrum (special event nights notwithstanding).
Here is a full guide on the best places to go.
Places to go
LGBTQ+ Bars
While smaller than Shinjuku Nichome in Tokyo, Doyamacho is still home to an impressive collection of bars and entertainment spots aimed squarely at the LGBTQIA+ community. They can be a fun place to make friends, indulge in some karaoke, or get to know the locals. Here are our top five spots to check out.
Grand Slam
Grand Slam is a foreigner friendly gay bar in the heart of Osaka’s gay district that has emerged as a very popular venue to hang out and get to know people.
Don’t be fooled by its unassuming size – visitors have fallen in love with the mishmash of tables, chairs, and barstools that mean you’ll be sitting remarkably close to other patrons. This makes striking up a conversation extremely easy, and you’ll have best buddies in no time.
If it’s a karaoke night, you’ll probably do more bad singing than chatting, but the bar attracts a supportive crowd that represents all sexualities and you’ll almost certainly be cheered no matter how much you mess up the climax to Bonnie Tyler’s I Need A Hero.
Grand Slam also advertises special events on certain nights, including drag queens and gogo boys – check their website for details – but keep in mind that some of these events are for male-presenting customers only.
Eagle Osaka
Regular visitors to Shinjuku Nichome have long valued Eagle and Eagle Blue for their friendly staff and wild event nights. Now, the group is bringing its winning formula to the Osaka gay district for a distinctly Kansai experience.
Expect all of the things that made the Nichome bars so popular. The sumptuous interior has been done up beautifully in the style of a Yokocho (alleyway) bar – the perfect place to unwind and chat. At the weekend, the first floor disco area opens up into a DJ-manned party venue, inviting visitors to dance the night away until 5am.
The website features a list of events and promotions for LGBTQ+ entertainment happening around Doyamacho, stapling the bar firmly as a hub for both performers and attendees alike. Tourists can grab a souvenir from the LGBTQIA+ apparel shop Nippondanji. Remember, all Eagle bars in Japan are cashless, so have a credit card or e-payment method handy.
Explosion
No visit to Doyamacho is complete without a wild night on the dance floor at Explosion. This distinctive bar/club with its low ceilings and fabulously garish lighting makes for pure Instagrammable content, and it’s THE place to be at the weekend when you want to party into the small hours.
But it’s the seemingly endless plethora of events that makes Explosion so popular – the club hosts at least two a week and they feature everything from drag queens to popular DJs. Some of these are for male-presenting people only, but the club has also garnered acclaim for hosting a wide range of female-presenting exclusive events too.
FrenZ FrenZY
Locals and travelers alike flock to FrenZ FrenZY on any day of the week for its free karaoke, instagrammable rainbow decor, and charming staff. The Australian owner always has a story or two to make you feel welcome, and he tells jokes that will make your toes curl.
Drinks come in very generously-sized glasses and, if you’re having a cocktail, there is usually a fun choice of spirits. Ask the barman for a recommendation if you don’t know your Malibu from your Bacardi. This bar usually fills up throughout the evening before most people leave for the last train at midnight, and it usually fills up again with the all-night crowd by around 2am. Above all, it’s a great place to make new friends.
Please note they do not take cash but instead accept PayPay and contactless credit cards.
Places to stay
Hotels in Doyamacho
Hotel Fine Garden Umeda
Hotel Fine Garden Umeda boasts a range of different room styles for those on all budgets, whether you’re after a spacious suite complete with living room and dining room or just a place to lay your head for the night.
Room service is on hand with a menu of carefully selected seasonal meals should you wish to take dinner in your room before hitting the bars in Doyamacho – which is only a short walk away. Their drinks menu also features a number of locally produced delicious cocktails and beers, allowing you to sample the very best of what Osaka has to offer.
Prices vary based on whether you’re booking for a weekday or a weekend but start very reasonably at 10,780 yen per night. Highly recommended for a relaxing and convenient stay.
APA Hotel & Resort Osaka Umeda Eki Tower
APA Hotel actually offers two locations within easy reach of Doyamacho that will mean you won’t have to worry about getting your last train. For maximum comfort, we recommend the APA Hotel & Resort Osaka Umeda Eki Tower, which boasts a rooftop pool for visitors who might feel inclined to take a dip before sampling the delights of Doyamacho.
The APA brand is famous throughout Japan for its comfortable rooms and soft beds (not always a guarantee with other similarly priced hotels), and friendly staff are on hand day and night to deal with any problems that you might have. Breakfast can be enjoyed for an additional fee, as well as access to the attached gym.
Visitors with tattoos are asked to keep them covered with body tape if they want to use the pool, and prices start from around 7000 yen a night for a weeknight stay.
Harmony Ambrassé Osaka
Those looking to indulge in true luxury during their stay near the Osaka gay district are advised to check into the Harmony Ambrassé Osaka, which offers expansive suite rooms with gorgeous views of the surrounding skyscrapers.
Amenities vary depending on the chosen room, but all are very tastefully decorated and lit, with stunning views. What’s more, visitors on a budget might be keen to apply for the late check-in plan for a ten percent discount, provided they agree to check in after 7pm.
If you’re looking to make your visit to Osaka’s gay district that little bit more special, this is an excellent option. Check the hotel’s website for details on how to reserve.
Conclusion
You’re all set to enjoy Doyamacho’s fun and lively nightlife and you can be sure of having somewhere to lay your head after you’ve finished enjoying yourself. Check out what events are happening in Osaka’s gay district, make friends, and have a fantastic time!