Moshing and diving at Japanese punk and hardcore shows

Why do the rules change from show to show?

JGIG's manners guide says rules vary by venue and event, and the Q&A adds that enforcement varies by event and genre. So the music a venue usually hosts doesn't tell you the rules for your night. Read the event post, and listen to staff on the night.

Which listed venues host punk and hardcore?

These JGIG venue pages mention punk or hardcore. Check the acts on each show page too, because one night can differ.

What should you check before you join in?

• The event post. Look for モッシュ, ダイブ or 禁止 in the notes. A ban there applies to you.
• The crowd. Watch a song or two first. See where people move and where they stand still.
• Staff instructions. Follow them on the night, even if the crowd is moving.
• Your space. JGIG's guide asks you not to block the entrance or the bar line, or to save big spaces.

Some event posts say moshing and diving are not allowed. Read the rules on your event's post, and follow staff instructions.

When should you stay out of the pit?

• The event bans it. Then it is off for everyone that night.
• You have a bag with you. Use a locker if there is one, or stay at the side.
• You want photos. Photo rules come first: flash is usually banned, and some artists allow no photos.
• You came for one act on a multi-band night. The crowd can change from act to act. See How a live house night works.

How do you plan a punk or hardcore night?

1. Pick a show and read the acts on the JGIG show page.
2. Open the official event page. Read the notes for モッシュ, ダイブ and 禁止.
3. Leave large bags at your hotel. Check the venue page for lockers.
4. Bring earplugs. See Earplugs and standing at small gigs in Japan.
5. Inside, choose your spot: near the front if you want to move, at the side or back if you don't.
6. Follow staff instructions all night.

What if you are alone, have no Japanese or cash, or buy at the door?

• Going alone: By the side wall, you can step back from the crowd.
• No Japanese: Learn モッシュ, ダイブ and 禁止 before you read the event post. To ask staff about a rule, show a phrase from the phrasebook.
• No cash: The drink fee (¥600 at most listed shows) is paid at the entrance. Keep cash in a front pocket, not loose in a bag.
• Door ticket: You go in after numbered tickets, likely near the back. Move forward only if the event allows it and staff don't stop you.

What to do next

What to do next