Christmas is, for many, the most wonderful night of the year! If you’re here in Japan for the holidays, though, and you want to spend your time with your found family in Japan’s gayborhood, where are the best places to go? And what can you expect? Ho-ho-hold on, we’ve got a little present for you today!
What to Expect from Christmas in Tokyo
Although Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, many cities — including Tokyo — get decked out with decorations, and you’ll even hear cheery Christmas muzak playing from the speakers in supermarkets and convenience stores. But Christmas Eve is the big night, with couples making plans for romance.
But for anyone looking to live it up before celebrating the birth of a certain Palestinian preacher, here are some of the best bars to visit!
Best LGBTQ+ Bars and Clubs for Christmas in Tokyo
KING Tokyo
Found right at the front of Nichome as you arrive from either Shinjuku Station or Shinjuku Sanchome Station, this bar is royalty in the LGBTQ+ scene. A mix bar that accepts anyone and everyone, it offers very affordable drinks deals and plays music to get you moving.
The staff are fun, chill, and the decor shows off the nerdy, artistic, and creative vibes that they all possess. The perfect place for a first-timer, and an easy choice for anyone who wants to spread some holiday cheer!
QUEEN Tokyo
One of the newest bars for queer women, Queen Tokyo is the sister bar of King Tokyo, and is happily located just across the street (perhaps for some friendly sibling rivalry!). Although it is a mixed bar, meaning that men are permitted entry, it focuses on being a welcoming space for women, and in particular women who may be starting to question or explore their sexual orientation. The perfect place for any ladies looking for something in their stocking!
EAGLE TOKYO BLUE
A highlight for many regular visitors to Nichome, as well as LGBTQ tourists who have limited time, Eagle Tokyo Blue is a gay bar that throws some of the most exciting events on the gay calendar, including major drag shows and parties. It even has a shop to get souvenirs of your time here! A terrific place for gay and bisexual men to spread their wings. Its dark and neon blue interior has attracted a number of celebrities, including Lil Nas X. Maybe Santa will be a special guest this year?
Alamas Café
Had your fill of washoku Japanese food? Want a Western meal, but burgers aren’t doing it for you? Well, right in the midst of Nichole’s exciting bars and clubs lies Alamas Cafe, which serves highly-rated Mexican food for anyone looking for a light meal or a delectable dinner.
Alamas Cafe serves a wide range of tacos and taco rice (a Mexican-Japanese fusion dish that originated in Okinawa), as well as burritos and nachos. It’s the perfect spot to make sure your night gets off to a spicy start. The perfect place to sing Feliz Navidad!
Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 6pm – 2am; Fri – Sat: 6pm – 5am; Sun: 3pm – Midnight
Dorobune
Experience the charm and culinary excellence of Dorobune, a beloved restaurant in Tokyo known for its warm and inclusive atmosphere. Specializing in traditional Japanese dishes with a creative twist, Dorobune offers a menu rich in fresh, flavorful options that cater to diverse tastes. Dorobune provides a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy a memorable dining experience. Although anyone is welcome, it mainly caters to queer women. Maybe you’ll meet your own Mrs. Claus!
Romantic Christmas Spots for LGBTQ+ Couples
Christmas in Tokyo is also a season for love — here are a few queer-friendly places to enjoy a romantic vibe.
Tokyo City View
Located in Roppongi, this is the observation deck of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, on the 52nd floor. Offering one of the best views of the glittering city at night, it is a wonderful spot for you and your beau to try and spot Rudolph.
- Map
- Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 10am – 6:30pm; Fri-Sat: 10am – 7:30pm
Tokyo Midtown Ice Rink
For anyone who wants to skate, whether in the sunlight or the moonlight, there is no better place than the annual Tokyo Midtown Ice Rink, also in Roppongi, to don your blades and take your lover for a whirl.
- Map
- Opening hours: 11am – 9pm
Marunouchi Illuminations
The trees along Marunouchi’s main avenue are wrapped in champagne-gold lights — elegant, subtle, and endlessly photogenic. The whole district feels like a scene from a winter fairytale, especially when viewed against the backdrop of Tokyo Station’s red-brick facade.
Where to Shop for Queer Christmas Gifts
So you’re all set for where to go! But what about what to buy for your friends and family? Here are a few of our favorite stores for festive gifts.
Nippondanji Shop
Based inside of Eagle Tokyo Blue, this store sells T-shirts, sexy underwear, badges and keychains, and artwork by famous gay artists, such as Tagame Gengoroh or Jiraiya. Great for anyone looking for a spicy gift!
Mandarake
Though Mandarake has many stores across Japan, it’s flagship location in Nakano Broadway is renowned as a paradise for used manga, making it a Mecca for anyone seeking out interesting, unique, or rare BL manga fans hunting for rare volumes for Christmas gifts.
JGG Pride Plaza
Opening in November, our very own store will welcome customers searching for LGBTQ+ merchandise and clothing. We’re looking forward to greeting you for the holiday season!
I hope that was a terrific little gift for you, my elves! Now, we have to leave to get even more Christmas preparations done. Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!
