Shinjuku ni-chome
|
|
Shinjuku ni-chōme (新宿二丁目, referred to colloquially simply as ni-chōme) is an area in the special ward of Shinjuku in Tokyo, Japan.
Ni-chōme is the centre of Tokyo's gay scene, and estimates of the number of gay pubs, clubs and bars in this area alone range between 200-300. In fact, it is frequently said that Ni-chōme has more gay bars per block than any other place in the world.
The area is also home to a wide array of gay restaurants, cafes, shops, saunas, gyms, hotels, 'host bars' (bars where patrons can meet hustlers), cruising spots, massage parlours and brothels of varying sizes and legality. Establishments vary in size from about 5 seats to full-sized dance clubs.
Bars tend to be segregated by "scene" -- for example, there are bars that cater to the bear community and their admirers, or "specialize" in S&M, muscular men, young men, and so on -- and frequently by gender as well.
Ni-chōme is also the site of Tokyo's gay pride parade and various gay festivals and activities.
Related topics
External links
- Shinjuku ni-chome Information Site (http://www.bekkoame.ne.jp/ha/id25304/) (English & Japanese)
- Club Zone.com (Tokyo club listings) (http://www.clubzone.com/company/index.asp?company_type=4&city=77) (English)