Being a lesbian in Japan is a very unique experience. While at times it can feel isolating– as we are a minority after all, and in Japan where the total population is 124 million as of 2024, even more so. This means finding your community, your lesbian and sapphic safe spaces is incredibly important. For many people, these lesbian and sapphic safe spaces are found in Japan’s biggest and most famous gay district, Shinjuku Nichome. Though only five blocks, there are over 300 bars and clubs, a significant number of them being lesbian or sapphic focused. Here’s a quick list of three lesbian bars that you should know about if you find yourself feeling isolated as a lesbian in Japan, or if you’re a lesbian that’s traveling to Tokyo and want to find likeminded lesbians while learning a little bit of what life is like for lesbians in Japan.
QUEEN
Known for its diverse staff, international atmosphere, and popping music (with a tendency towards Latin music depending on who’s DJing), QUEEN prides itself on being a lesbian bar and trans inclusive sapphic space. Open from 18 o’clock until 3am during weekdays, 5am on weekends, and located across from their sister bar KING, a few minutes away from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station. With all-you-can-drink every day until 10pm, that includes a variety of options including beer and wine, equipped with welcoming queer staff, it’s no wonder QUEEN is one of the top spots lesbian and sapphic locals and travelers make sure to visit. Never mind that the staff are rather easy on the eyes.
GOLDFINGER
Around since 1991, Goldfinger is a lesbian bar that is considered a must see for any lesbian that’s even stepped foot in Japan. Open during weekdays from 17 o’clock until midnight, 4am during weekends, and located merely 30 seconds away from QUEEN or a six minute walk from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station. Decorated with rather titillating quirky various knickknacks and a giant disco ball sure to encourage you to bust a few moves to the Goldfinger playlist. With an exclusive women only day, Goldfinger finds itself packed to the brim with lesbians and sapphics nearly every Saturday. It’s a great place to meet and befriend other lesbians visiting or living in Japan.
DOROBUNE
If you’re looking for more of a chill lesbian space, Dorobune is the place for you. With a more local Japanese local lesbian cafe vibe and friendly staff located on the second floor of a slightly intimidating complex, and open from 19 o’clock until 23:30 during the weekend, it’s the perfect place to hang out, grab a quick meal and chat with your fellow lesbian and practice your Japanese. Dorobune is also perfect for a bit of a respite after partying and before your last train to digest those all-you-can-drinks from QUEEN.
Kamari
Tucked away in Shinjuku Ni-chome, Kamari is one of the most inclusive and lively lesbian-friendly spaces in Tokyo. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and diverse clientele, Kamari proudly brands itself as a “sexual mix” bar, meaning all identities — lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, and queer — are welcome.
The vibe here is casual and social, perfect for chatting with locals, playing bar games, or just people-watching over a cocktail. Music ranges from chill J-pop to upbeat international hits, and the staff are famously friendly and open-minded. It’s a great stop for first-timers who want to experience Ni-chome’s community feel without the crowds.
agit
Just a few minutes’ walk from Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, agit is a cozy and intimate lesbian bar that has earned a devoted following among locals. It’s the kind of place where regulars greet each other by name and newcomers are welcomed with a smile.
The bar’s interior is small and relaxed — more like a living room than a nightclub — with a menu of reasonably priced drinks and occasional themed nights. If you’re looking for a genuine community vibe rather than a big party, agit is a perfect choice to unwind, chat, and connect with Tokyo’s sapphic scene.
With all bars having more mixed international and local attendees, you’re guaranteed to meet someone new, and get a taste of the true lesbian experience in Japan, fighting off lesbian loneliness one lesbian bar at a time!
If you’re curious about what other lesbian bars there are in Shinjuku Nichome, check out this article below with a few more on the list!