Guide to Japanese live house culture
TL;DR: Tickets, etiquette, payment, and venue basics in one place.
Learn how to find concerts in Tokyo and Osaka, buy concert tickets as an international visitor, and navigate English-friendly live house etiquette.
Topics
Culture answers in one place
Browse explainers and quick answers by topic.
Payment
What is a drink fee?
Livehouses collect a mandatory drink fee at the entrance. Pay it when you check in and use the ticket inside.
First time
First time at a Japanese livehouse?
Learn the basic flow - from lining up to buying merch - so you can relax and enjoy the show.
First time
Livehouse flow: entry to exit
A step-by-step flow from check-in to the bar, merch table, and exit.
Solo
Going solo to a Japanese livehouse
Solo nights are common. Here is how to feel comfortable and ask staff for help with lockers, re-entry, and timing.
English
No Japanese? How to communicate at a livehouse
Short phrases and gestures go a long way. Use the phrasebook for tickets, payment, and directions.
Rules
Livehouse manners and rules
Know the basics on photography, crowd behavior, and respecting space.
Tickets
Ticket types: advance, door, and torioki
Learn the differences between advance tickets, same-day tickets, and will-call reservations.
Basics
Can event details change suddenly?
Yes. Promoters sometimes alter doors, prices, or lineups on short notice. Always confirm the latest info with the venue or artist before heading out.
Tickets
Can I buy tickets on the day of the show?
Many live houses sell same-day tickets, but availability depends on the event. Check the official event page, because availability is often finalized 5 to 30 minutes before doors.
Phrasebook for ticketsTickets
Do I need to print tickets or is a phone screen OK?
Phone tickets are accepted at most venues. Save a screenshot in case reception is weak underground.
Payment
What is the drink fee and when do I pay it?
Most livehouses collect a mandatory drink fee at the door. You pay when you enter and receive a drink ticket to redeem inside.
Phrasebook for drink feesRules
Can I leave and re-enter once I go outside?
Re-entry rules vary by venue and event. Ask staff at the door and look for a wristband or stamp policy.
Phrasebook for re-entryBasics
What time should I arrive before doors?
Arrive 10 to 20 minutes early for most shows. For popular acts, lineups may start earlier.
Rules
Are livehouses all-ages?
Some livehouses or events are all-ages, but many shows have age restrictions. Always check the official event information for age limits.
Payment
Are credit cards accepted?
Some venues accept cards or IC cards, but cash is still the safest option. Check the venue details page for payment info.
Phrasebook for paymentRules
Is photography allowed?
Photography rules depend on the band. If unsure, ask the staff or look for signage near the stage.
Phrasebook for venue rulesEnglish
I do not speak Japanese. What should I do?
Short phrases and gestures work well. Showing a Japanese sentence on your phone is the safest.
Open phrasebookLanguage
Do staff speak English?
Basic English is common, but not guaranteed. You can show phrases from our phrasebook page to communicate politely.
Open phrasebookOthers
What should I wear?
Casual clothes and comfortable shoes are best. Venues can get warm, so layers you can remove are recommended.
Solo
Can I store my bag or luggage?
Some venues have lockers or a cloak room. Ask staff if you can leave bags before the show.
Phrasebook for lockers & baggageBudget
How do I check the last train time?
Ask the staff or check the nearest station timetable. Use the phrasebook to ask about the last train before heading out.
Phrasebook for last trainDrinks
What is the drink ticket handed to me at the door?
Most live houses collect JPY 600-700 for a mandatory first drink when you enter. Staff give you a small ticket; swap it at the bar any time for beer or a soft drink.
Phrasebook for drinksVenues
What do people mean when they say "goods" at a show?
"Goods" refers to band merchandise: CDs, shirts, towels, photo books, or badges. Merch tables usually appear near the exit right after each set.
Tickets
What are same-day tickets and "Torioki" reservations?
"Torioki" (will-call reservation) means you email the organizer to reserve a spot and pay in cash at the door.
Phrasebook for ticketsTickets
How is entry order decided?
Ticket numbers, reservation timestamps, or fan club lotteries determine who lines up first. Staff call out number ranges before letting each block inside. Same-day ticket holders enter last.
Venues
Do livehouses serve food?
Only a handful offer snacks like curry or hot dogs. Expect simple bar menus focused on drinks - eat before the show if you need a full meal.
Rules
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food and beverages are almost always prohibited.
Rules
Is flash photography allowed?
Flash is generally banned because it distracts performers. Unless the band explicitly allows it, stick to non-flash photos or ask staff first.
Phrasebook for venue rulesRules
Should I expect moshing or stage diving?
At hardcore or idol shows, light moshing or crowd surfing may sometimes occur. These actions are generally discouraged or restricted, but enforcement varies by event and genre. Always prioritize your safety and follow staff instructions.
Payment
Why do venues still prefer cash?
Many small livehouses pay bands, bartenders, and rental fees in cash that same night. Carry yen for drink tickets, merch, and lockers even if IC cards are accepted.
Venues
Will my phone have signal inside?
Many basement venues have weak reception. Download tickets, maps, and payment apps before heading underground, and look for lobby Wi-Fi if you need to message friends.
Next steps
Plan your visit
Open the phrasebook for on-site communication.