Fukuoka is one of Japan’s finest cities. It is the home of Tonkotsu ramen — known locally as Hakata ramen. But it is also one of the nation’s most famous cities, and one of the most beloved. It is a warm, bright, and delightful place to live or visit.
But for our LGBTQ+ friends, what is up for offer? Let me attempt to give you a description of the best LGBTQ+ bars in the most bustling metropolis of Kyushu, our favorite southern island,.
LOL101
This bar is woman-only. Sorry, fellas! The name comes both from the idea of laughing out loud, and the concept of “101”: even if you are a beginner, you can feel welcome here, and become who you want to be.
It regularly holds events, including birthday celebrations for its bar staff, and regular observation of things like New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, and other holidays and observances.
It is known as an accepting, caring place that all women can visit and enjoy.
Magical Banana
For those of us who want wondrous berries, delicious drinks and the company of queer men, then there is no better place to go to than Magical Banana.
Specializing in having a gay bar staff who can talk openly to their customers about anything they wish to. Such openness and understanding is something that is appreciated by the people who visit this establishment.
Bar OVERALL
Another prime-time gay bar in the heart of Fukuoka, Bar OVERALL It is a bar that wants people who are perhaps new to their understanding of their sexuality, or those who are curious, to visit and take their time as the charming bar staff.
It does take a ¥600 fee for entry, but the friendliness makes it more than worth the price of admission. It’s a small price to pay for admission and the kindness of the lovely staff who are gonna reassure you that everything is going to be okay.
Gay Bar Parosu
Now we have an absolute classic. This is one of the all-timer Fukuoka gay bars, with a specialism in serving its customers something we all love: champagne.
A place for anyone who wants to enjoy a place that’s safe, accepting, and opulent. Less known for being posh, it is better known for a place for the hoi polloi who want to let everyone know who they are. And what else could one ask for?
MASHUP
But what if you wanna go nuts? Well, what could we suggest more than a karaoke bar? MASHUP is an explicitly LGBTQ+ bar that allows all genders, and is famed for its open karaoke environment, that lets people bust loose and sing their hearts out.
If you are at the end of your night and want to sing your lungs out, there’s no better place to go. Breathe in, and then enjoy!
In Summary
Fukuoka is like many other cities in Japan: great restaurants, interesting history, and wonderful people to meet. But it also has an incredible LGBTQ+ scene, including many of the bars that we have listed. And they could just be the start of your trek in Fukuoka!
