Live House 101

Going to a gig in a small Tokyo venue for the first time? Here's what the listings mean. Details vary by venue, so treat this as a general guide.

Want the full walkthrough? Read Your First Japanese Live House: A Complete Guide for Visitors.

Adv / Door

Adv (advance) is the ticket price when you buy or reserve beforehand. Door is the price when you pay on the day, and it's usually a few hundred yen more. If you already know you're going, book ahead.

+1 Drink

Ticket prices don't include drinks. Venues usually collect a separate one-drink fee when you enter (typically ¥500–700), and you exchange the token or ticket you receive for a drink at the bar. Our listings mark this as +1 Drink.

Reservations (torioki)

Many shows let you reserve by name through a form on the venue's or band's page instead of buying online. You then pay at the door, usually at the advance price. If a listing links to a venue reservation page, that's the easiest route.

Buying online

You'll see services like LivePocket, TIGET, e+ and ticketdive. Some of them ask for a Japanese phone number or offer convenience-store payment, which can be tricky for visitors. If the checkout doesn't work for you, try the reservation route or ask the venue directly.

Practical tips

• Open vs. Start: Doors open first, and the first band starts at the Start time. Several bands usually play back to back.
• Bring cash: Many small venues only take cash for the door and drinks.
• Earplugs are a good idea in small rooms.
• Check the official page before you go. Lineups and times sometimes change.