There's nowhere in the world quite like Tokyo. Stepping into Japan's capital is like being transported into a Blade Runner-esque future—at least on the surface. But it's also an incredible city of contrasts, where you can clearly see and admire the technological advances of tomorrow mixed with the remnants of a century-spanning history and a unique, rich tapestry of culture.

Tokyo's streets are unusually pristine—with a notable lack of garbage cans for a population of over 13 million people—and it boasts one of the largest and most intricate public transit systems in the world. Meanwhile, also within the city bounds, you'll find ancient temples and some of the oldest historical sites in Asia, calling back to a bygone age of samurai, shoguns, and decadent emperors.

Japan still has a way to go when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, but you're unlikely to run into any trouble in Tokyo—beyond a few frowns at any public displays of affection. The city is unbelievably huge and sprawling, with more sights, food, shopping, and nightlife than you could ever hope to see in one trip. So, you'll just have to keep coming back to see it all.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Tokyo
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Tokyo
5. Tokyo Gay Tours
6. Restaurants and Cafes
7. Tokyo Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Tokyo Gay Sauna's & Cruising Bars
9. Gay Events in Tokyo
10. Day Trips from Tokyo

General Tips

Though it’s undoubtedly an expensive city to visit, a bit of foresight can help to keep expenses to a minimum while visiting. For example, if you’re looking for a good view of the city, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has a free observatory versus paying to go up the Tokyo Tower.

Depending on where you’re going during your visit and how long your trip is, consider getting a JR Pass because it can save you money when traveling by rail (which is a great way to travel around Japan). Essentially, if you plan to go to one more major city apart from Tokyo, it should be worth it providing you with unlimited rides on JR trains for one to three weeks. You can also order a pocket WiFi and request the Meet & Greet service when arriving at the airport if buying a JR Pass. The pocket WiFi will allow you to connect your smartphone, tablet or laptop to enjoy internet connectivity throughout the country. Meet & Greet service provides you with a personal pickup who will be waiting for you right after arrivals, help you exchange the Japan Rail Pass, take care of any business you might have at the airport and personally escort you to your onward method of transport. Buy JR Pass →

As with many destinations, the best times to go are in the Spring (March – May) and Fall (September – November). The summers are quite hot and humid, and the winters are quite cold. But in reality, Tokyo is a great destination any season with plenty to do year-round.

You can download the Gay Tokyo guide for free. Just provide your email address and we’ll email you a PDF.

Download the Guide

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Tokyo has an incredibly elaborate public transportation system that can be a bit difficult to navigate with various companies owning particular lines that don’t coincide with one another. But despite the difficulty in navigating it at first, the good thing is that it can take you anywhere you want to go.

To get to the center of Tokyo from the airport you have a few options. First, the JR Narita Express is a great option because it’s the quickest (1 hour) and most comfortable departing every 25 to 40 minutes from Airport Terminal 1 Station to Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and Shibuya Stations in Tokyo. However, it’s also more expensive at around ¥4000. For a more affordable option, take the JR Sobu Line for half the price (¥1340) and only 30 minutes longer. This is also included in the JR pass. The cheapest train option is the Keisei Limited Express. This is a regular commuter train, meaning it is a commuter train not covered with the JR pass. It costs ¥1210 and takes an hour and a half. To get to Tokyo station in the center, transfer at Nippori Station to the JR Yamanote Line or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line.

Limousine buses to and from Tokyo’s major hotels are a comfortable option at about ¥2,900 for a one-way trip, or ¥4,500 round-trip ticket. They can take just over an hour and a half depending on location. Another affordable option is taking the Airport Bus TYO-NRT which also takes about an hour and half. Pay ¥1000 during the day and ¥2000 for late night or early morning.

Gay Hotels in Tokyo

There aren’t currently any gay hotels in Tokyo, but there are many gay-friendly options. Keep in mind public displays of affection in Japan are not common.

Luxury

The Prince Gallery Tokyo – Located just minutes from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station and featuring free WiFi throughout the entire property, a sake bar, a sushi restaurant, a teppanyaki restaurant, and a fitness center. The spa and wellness center and sauna facility are also a big draw. The neighborhood of Chiyoda is a great option for culture and city walks.

The Ritz-Carlton – Rooms start on the 45th level of the city’s tallest building. Enjoy the spectacular views with floor-to-ceiling windows. Hotel amenities include seven amazing restaurants, a health and wellness area, and meeting spaces. In-room amenities feature down pillows and comforters, a marble bathroom with a deep tub and individual rain-shower, two TVs with one in the bathroom, and a daily morning newspaper. The location is also ideal with many main attractions easily accessible on foot or by subway.

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo – Stay in Shinjuku’s Skyscraper District, a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Train Station. This hotel has various dining options and panoramic views of the Shinjuku skyline. Guests can also enjoy the fitness center for free or the outdoor pool for a fee. A free shuttle to Tokyo Disney Resort is also offered.

Mid-Range

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – A modern and stylish hotel located right in the lively Kabuki-cho area in Shinjuku, a 7-minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Subway Station or a 10-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station. There’s also a rooftop bar on the 13th-floor terrace as well as a modern-style restaurant on the 12th floor with French and Italian cuisine.

APA Hotel Shinjuku Gyoenmae – This hotel is conveniently located just a minute's walk from Shinjuku-Gyoenmae subway station. Rooms are simply decorated and you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner at the Steak Restaurant Takumi found on the ground floor. JR Shinjuku Train Station, JR Shibuya Station, and the famous Shibuya pedestrian crossing are all easily accessible.

Tokyu Stay Shinjuku – Perfectly located in the middle of the Shinjuku area near Shinjuku Sanchome Subway Station. Some rooms even have mini-kitchens with simple kitchenware and tableware. Nearby attractions include Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and many restaurants and bars can be found in the surrounding area.

CEN Diversity Hotel & Café –  Japan’s first ‘diversity hotel,’ meaning all are welcome in this chic hotel, and they’ve made a concerted effort to hire LGBTQ+ staff. Plus it's located in the rather cool – and LGBTQ+ – Shinjuku area. The rooms have a clean, crisp look about them and the hotel has a luxurious café with a roof terrace – perfect for sipping a fruit tea away from the beautiful chaos of central Tokyo.

Budget

Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel – This boutique hotel is unique in that it has actually melded with the theater next door to it, so you can enjoy some entertainment with your stay. With only 30 rooms, they offer a personal way to experience Tokyo. Among the hotel’s facilities are a restaurant, a shared kitchen, and free WiFi. It is also integrated into the neighborhood of Asakusa, which is another Tokyo gay district. Here you can find gay saunas such as 24 Kaikan as well as several gay bars including Navigate, a bear spot for karaoke. Nearby attractions include Nitenmon Gate, Asakusa Fujiasama Shrine, and Kappabashi-dori Shopping Street.

Shinjuku City Hotel N.U.T.S Tokyo –  Conveniently situated in the gay district, this affordable hotel is ideal for the Shinjuku nightlife. Its comfortable and compact rooms include LAN internet access but there’s a WiFi router available at the reception. It’s walking distance to places like AiSOTOPE Lounge, Alamas Café, 24 Kaikan gay sauna, and popular gay venues.

Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo – This “apart’hotel” offers well-designed studios equipped with a modern kitchenette, separate living and dining areas, an en-suite bathroom, and free WiFi. Guests also have access to a launderette, gymnasium, private car park, and breakfast lounge. It’s located within walking distance to the Shinjuku East area with the Marunouchi and Toei Shinjuku subway lines close by.

Search Apartments on misterb&b

Sightseeing & Activities in Tokyo

Tokyo Tower – This iconic structure is the world's tallest, self-supported steel tower (13 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower) and was formerly the country's tallest until it was surpassed by the Tokyo Skytree in 2012. There’s a main deck with an observatory offering an interesting view of the city, plus a souvenir shop and cafe. Continue your way up to the high-top deck for a bird's eye view of Tokyo. It’s ¥3000 for both decks or ¥1200 for the main deck only. Book tour →

Meiji Jingu Shrine – A shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the first emperor of modern Japan, near the JR Yamanote Line's Harajuku Station. Completed in 1920 but rebuilt after WWII, the shrine grounds and nearby Yoyogi Park have paths for a relaxing walk. Free admission. Book tour →

The Imperial Palace – Located in the heart of the city, the palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Visitors can explore the East Gardens, which are open to the public and showcase beautiful seasonal flowers, traditional Japanese landscaping, and historical structures. Guided tours provide insights into the palace's rich history and cultural significance. The picturesque Nijubashi Bridge and the surrounding moats add to the palace's charm, making it a peaceful respite from the busy city surrounding it. Book tour →

Shibuya Crossing – Likely the world’s most famous intersection, this landmark has appeared in various music videos and movies like Lost in Translation and The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. People going in all directions spill out into this intersection found outside Shibuya Station. The neighborhood of Shibuya is also a trendy shopping district with bars, clubs, and izakayas for casual drinks.

Hachiko Memorial Statue – A popular meeting place at Shibuya Station with a statue dedicated to the most loyal dog, who continued to wait for his owner at the station for 9 years after the owner died.

Roppongi Hills – A modern entertainment and shopping complex. A great example of a city within a city. The building complex is equipped with offices, apartments, shops, restaurants, a hotel, an art museum, and an observation deck. Book tour →

Shinkuku and DiverCity – Tokyo's largest shopping areas are found around Shinjuku Station. The district has major department stores, as well as Japan's largest electronics retailers, plus unique shops and boutiques found on the streets and underground. Another great shopping option is DiverCity Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba, where you can find familiar fashion brands like H&M and Zara, or simply check out the Unicorn Gundam—a 19.7-meter statue from the iconic robot series with daily shows as it transforms from Unicorn mode to Destroy mode—we kid you not.

Sengakuji Temple – Located near Shinagawa Station and famous for its graveyard where the “47 Ronin” are buried. The samurai story became very popular as a kabuki play, and many people visit the temple to pay respects by burning incense there.

Tokyo Gay Tours

LGBT Tokyo Then and Now – An evening walking tour of the LGBTQ+ scene with a local guide. Find Tokyo’s LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods, bars, restaurants, and bookshops. Learn about past and present cultural and social LGBTQ+ issues. Plus, enjoy dinner and two drinks. Book tour →

Restaurants and Cafes

Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho – Go here for an alley of small restaurants and open food stalls known for cheap beers and skewers of grilled yakitori.

Toyosu Fish Market – This newly opened market at Shijo-mae Station took over for the original Tsukiji Market in 2018. There are three buildings, two for seafood and one for fruits and vegetables. Observe it in action from observation windows and dine at one of the restaurants in the area. Book tour →

Kurand Sake Market – Enjoy all you can drink sake at multiple locations, including Shinjuku and Shibuya. It’s an affordable option that also allows you to bring your own food.

Okamalt – An LGBTQ+ book cafe in the gay district of Ni-chome. The well-known bar owner, Ogura-san, is also known as the drag queen Margarette, who you can see at “Department H.” Have a drink and grab a book Sunday to Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. only.

Alanas Cafe– Having Mexican food in Tokyo might seem odd, but this gay-friendly bar/cafe/restaurant in the Shinjuku-ku neighborhood really hits the spot with both its food and ambiance. The delicious tacos, friendly staff, DJ, and brightly colored interior make it a hit among the local gay crowd.

Funabashi-ya – This super popular 100-year-old restaurant in the gay area is renowned for serving the “best tempura in town.” The claim is well-warranted, with everything coming fresh from the fryer onto your plate.

Ippudo – The most famous tonkotsu ramen restaurant chain in all of Japan, definitely worth stopping at to see why. Tokyo's restaurant is located in the Ginza area.

Corn Barley – Hidden in the center near Kichijoji Station, this is one of the coolest places to eat in Tokyo—especially if you're a Studio Ghibli fan. Each side room is a homage to one of the popular animated Japanese films, and meals come with props of the colorful cast of characters. Don't worry if you aren't a fan, though, because the cuisine is also delicious, and the chic atmosphere makes a meal here something special regardless. Due to the influx of foreign visitors, the staff helpfully also have language cards to help you find your way around the menu.

So Bar Naruaki–  A gay-owned noodle shop meets bar on the fifth floor of the Shinjuku high-rise building. Go for the view, stay for the delicious noodles and good company.

Tokyo Gay Bars and Clubs

Shinjuku Ni-chome is Tokyo’s main gay scene. As for the nightlife, it’s a “go big or go home” situation. Ideally, you want to take public transit home after the bars, but unfortunately, all the train lines close at midnight, and buses are nearly nonexistent. The solution here for Tokyo’s bar-hopping youth is to stay out until 5 am when the train lines open again. It can make for a long night, but taxis charge an initial ¥710 to start and ¥250 for each subsequent kilometer.

EAGLE Tokyo – An international gay bar in Shinjuku Ni-chome. Go for good drinks made by bearish staff and to meet locals and international visitors. The space becomes a party on weekends with DJs, drag queens, and gogo boys for your viewing pleasure.

Campy! Bar – Located on the main street in Shinjuku Ni-chome, a lively gay bar featuring local celebrity Bourbonne. All are welcome, and even the straight folk stop by. It’s free to enter but expect to buy a drink for around ¥500-800.

Gold Finger – A corner pub-style bar with specialty nights, like FTM Bois Bar, as well as holiday-centric parties. It’s women and non-male identifying folk focused, though all genders are welcome during the week. However, Saturdays are strictly female-only.

Dragon Men – You’ll find the expat and international crowd at this gay bar with outdoor seating. Go to cruise, socialize, for their daily happy hour from 6-9 pm, or to enjoy the semi-naked barmen.

New Sazae – One of the first gay bars in Tokyo, known for being a favorite of Freddy Mercury in the '70s. It's still kept its retro style and blasts '70s and '80s music while serving cheap drinks to the masses.

Usagi – A friendly little gay bar with great – and potent – sake. A great way to kick start any night in Tokyo’s gay district. The owner also speaks fluent English.

Bar Bridge – This classy looking bar attracts an international crowd. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the culture shock, it’s the perfect place to orient yourself and talk to other LGBTQ+ visitors.

Chappy – A small – but often busy – Japanese style gay bar. The personality makes up for the size!

Arty Farty – A popular dance club with a large bar and dance floor. Expect a fun, packed crowd on weekends. They offer reasonably priced drinks and a hand stamp to enter The Annex for free.

The Annex – A late-night gay dance club in Shinjuku by the owners of Arty Farty. It has a cruising area in the back and attracts a mixed crowd.

VITA Tokyo – A large, popular gay dance party held at various venues multiple times throughout the year with occasional pool parties, international DJs, dancers, and shows.

HUNKS Underwear Party @ Boiler Room – A men-only gay dance party held every month featuring a DJ, gogo dancers, and a dark room. The ¥2500-3000 entry includes a drink.

Department H – Looking for something a little more queer in Tokyo? Then this party is for you. Department H was created by Tokyo's queer revolution movement, aiming to be more inclusive of all members of the LGBTQIA+ community. You'll find a mixed crowd here, with all letters of LGBTQ+ represented, as well as fetish shows, drag queens, and edgier music.

Slick – This mixed sex-positive rave party on the rooftop of Shibuya Parco follows in the footsteps of Department H, but with even more of a techno/kinky edge. Slick pulls in international techno DJs, even from as far as Berlin, and features live kink performances and has a sneaky darkroom. The dress code is fetish or clubwear.

Tokyo Gay Sauna's & Cruising Bars

Men’s Club MEAT – This private cruise club mostly targets masculine men in their 20s-40s. The spacious venue has lockers, showers, a dark room, and private cabins on 4 levels. Enjoy refreshments and WiFi onsite. There are also weekly themed events.

BodyBreath – A popular gay cruising location with locals, though foreigners are welcome. There’s a mixed crowd and it can get quite busy, especially on weekends. It has cruising areas, showers, lockers, and private rooms. It’s open 24/7.

GATE IN – A smaller, simpler cruise space near Tokyo Station for 18 to 40-year-olds, preferably in suits or naked on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

Gay Events in Tokyo

Tokyo Rainbow Pride – An annual weeklong celebration in April consisting of a parade and several parties. It’s Japan’s largest pride event, which started on August 28, 1994.

Day Trips from Tokyo

Kyoto – This city is a bit far from Tokyo and certainly deserving of more than a one-day visit, but if one day is all you have, it’s also worth your time. You can take a super-speed bullet train round trip and enjoy views of Mt. Fuji along the way. Then visit Sanjusangen-do Hall, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Book tour →

Yokohama – Just 25 minutes from Tokyo Station, Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan and has the largest Chinatown in the country. Enjoy beautiful views across the Minato-Mirai waterfront at night and visit one or both ramen museums (the Cup Noodle Museum and the Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum). Check out the art scene, treehouse cafes, or the Sankei-en Gardens. Book tour →

Kamakura -A beautiful city about an hour from Tokyo with a number of historic monuments. A visit to see the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple is a must. Book tour →

Mt. Fuji – Get out of the city and into nature with a full-day trip to Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Hakone National Park. Enjoy spectacular views and also visit the bright red shrine atop Mt. Komagatake. Then easily return to Tokyo by bullet train the same evening. Book tour →

Note: Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You’re not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting this site if you choose to use our link!