What Exactly Are "Hostss Bars" and "Hostess Clubs"?

Hostess bars (hostess clubs) are a type of Japanese bar where female staff members known as casts provide entertainment and companionship to customers. They sit next to the customers, engaging them in conversation and serving drinks.

The pricing at these bars typically operates on a timed system, with a common set duration ranging from 50 to 60 minutes. The primary service in Hostess bars is one-on-one attention, where a girl sits beside a customer to chat and share drinks. It's important to note that these interactions do not include any physical or sexual advances. During a single set, two to three girls may rotate to attend to a customer, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience.

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How Much Does It Cost to Visit a Hostess Bar?

The cost of visiting a Hostess bar varies based on the time of day and the specific venue. Generally, you can expect to pay between 4,500 yen to 10,000 yen per set (50 to 60 minutes). But that's not all - there are additional charges to consider. If you want to request the company of a specific girl, there's a "nomination fee" of around 3,000 yen to 5,000 yen. Plus, you'll need to cover the cost of her drinks, any private room fees, and other requests you might have.

On top of the set fee, be prepared for extra charges like a table charge or service fee, which can add another 5% to 20% to your bill. Most hostess bars offer a house bottle system, where you can enjoy unlimited drinks from a selection of beverages like whiskey, brandy, or shochu during your set time, free of charge. If you opt for something outside-the-house bottle options, like beer, cocktails, or soft drinks, expect to pay around 1,500 yen per drink.

If you're feeling extravagant, you can order an entire bottle of a specific drink to keep at your table. Remember, pricing structures vary among places, so it's wise to check the details before you enter or shortly after arriving to avoid surprises.

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Who Are the Girls Working at Hostess Bars?

In typical settings, you'll find a diverse range of women, mostly aged between 18 to 30, known for their attractive appearances. These women come from various backgrounds; some treat the job as their main profession, while others are university students, working part-time. The ambiance they create varies widely too, from the elegant and demure to the more outgoing and flashy, offering customers a chance to meet women of different styles and personalities.

In the more upscale hostess bars, where the customers tend to be older, the women working there are usually in their mid-20s to 30s. Not only do these women stand out for their looks, but they are also skilled in conversation and hospitality, priding themselves on their ability to entertain and cater to the customers' preferences.

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Who Are The Clients Going to Hostess Clubs

The clientele at regular clubs mainly consists of male office workers and self-employed individuals. The high-end hostess clubs often attract wealthy clients, such as corporate executives, business owners, and doctors. Additionally, popular high-end clubs in areas like Roppongi and Nishi-Azabu may see visits from celebrities and professional athletes.

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Hostess Club Operating Hours: Until Midnight or 1 AM

The operating hours of hostess clubs are regulated by the Entertainment Business Law, typically allowing them to remain open until midnight. However, certain areas may be permitted to extend operations until 1 a.m., known as "extended operating areas" such as in Shinjuku area.

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Please refer to our other articles to know more about the pricing and etiquettes before visiting hostess clubs by yourself. These guides provide essential insights into what to expect, from the cost structure to the cultural norms that shape your experience.