What does the ticket number (整理番号) mean at Japanese gigs?

Why does entry order matter?

Most venues listed on JGIG are small standing rooms. There are no seats to find, so people choose where to stand as they come in. Going in earlier gives you more choice: close to the stage, at the side, or near the bar. JGIG's manners guide also asks you not to save big spaces in the crowd. So your number, not a saved spot, decides how early you can choose.

How is your number used at the door?

1. Before doors, people line up near the entrance. Keep the entrance and the bar line clear.
2. At doors, staff call out a range of numbers, then the next range.
3. When your range is called, go to the entrance. Show your ticket or QR code, pay the drink fee and take your drink ticket.
4. Door-ticket holders go in last.

How the order is set depends on the show. Ticket numbers, reservation times or fan club lotteries can decide who goes first. Check the event post for how it works at your show.

What are the exceptions?

• No number on your ticket. Not every ticket has one. Check the official event post for how entry order works at that show.
• Torioki. If you reserved with the organizer, check the event post for your place in the order.
• If you miss your number. Show your ticket to staff and follow their instructions. To avoid this, be at the entrance when doors open.
• Times can change. Promoters sometimes change doors or lineups at short notice. Check the official event page on the day.

What should you do with your number?

1. Find 整理番号 on your ticket or confirmation, and note the number.
2. Save a screenshot of your ticket. Reception can be weak in basement venues.
3. Check the doors time on the JGIG show page, and the official event page on the day.
4. Arrive before doors. For timing, see Doors or start: what time should you arrive?.
5. Have the drink fee ready, and listen for your range of numbers.

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

• Going alone: You only need to follow your own number. If you are not sure when to go in, show your ticket to the staff member calling numbers.
• No Japanese: If you can't follow the calls, show your ticket and a phrase from the ticket phrasebook to staff.
• No cash: Your number does not change what you pay. You still pay the drink fee at the door. See Do you need cash at Japanese live houses?.
• Door ticket: Door-ticket holders go in after everyone else. Door tickets are sold only if there is space, so check the official event page first.

What to do next

What to do next