Tokyo Adult Guide: 18+ activities in Japan

Travelling to Japan and fancy a juicy experience in the capital city? Our Tokyo adult guide will encourage you to leave the kids at home and go explore a less talked about side of Japan.

From an unconventional adult toy industry, through anime desires, to know what to do and not do in Asia’s largest red district, Tokyo is one of the most decadent cities in the world.

Tokyo Adult Guide – The Red Light District

If you are up to some fun whilst in Japan, you probably want to start with the red district in Kabukicho. I always wanted to check out Asia’s largest red district for myself and figure out what’s really going on there.

It’s well known that Kabukicho has many bars run by the Japanese mafia. One quick search online and you will find crazy stories about how tourists were drugged, had their credit cards maxed out or worse.

There are so many dos and don’ts for tourists in this district I wouldn’t want to list them all. I will leave it to the experts to tell you more about how to behave and what to look out for when you want to do more than just look.

It’s tempting to want to go and visit a parlour or a love hotel which promises fun with hostesses, but the reality is, if you don’t speak good Japanese you won’t understand what’s going on and you will be refused service. My advice is to stay away unless you really know what you are doing.

One of the best pieces of advice I can give you is whilst in Kabukicho, you better watch but not touch. The same applies to food and bars.

The food is not very good. One glance at the reviews and you can see that most restaurants leave tourists disappointed. The prices are high, the quality is poor and there are few authentic places around. Let’s face it, people don’t usually come to Kabukicho to eat.

There are lots of bars in the area. If a drink is what you are after, make sure you do your research before going in. Ideally, you will not bar hop in Kabukicho, unless you have a Japanese speaking guide.

Kabukicho is a fantastic place to wander around and marvel at the neon lights, but nothing else, unless you are well versed in what’s going on behind closed doors.

Tokyo Adult Guide – The Adult Industry in Japan

Just know that engaging in “night trade” activities is illegal in Japan but the definition is strictly limited to coitus. Anything else beyond this is legal. So the option is there, as an open secret.

Sadly, there are many victims of human trafficking and Tokyo is regarded as one of the top trade cities in the world. Please make sure to not be part of the problem if you decide to participate. Always research before you do anything.

Another problem is the legal age of consent in Japan. The legal age of consent in Japan is 13. No surprise you see so many little anime characters who look far too young for their own good.

A quick search and you will uncover a dark side of Japan, where men pay young people for all sorts of things.

Various prefectures introduced their own laws and changed the legal age to 18 to protect children.

Beyond the above, Tokyo is a great place to find a partner and participate in adult-only activities.

The most common areas to find love hotels are Shinjuku (Kabukicho), Shibuya, Ikebukuro and Uguisudani. The hotels are commonly referred to as “Delivery Health/Love Hotels”.

Expect that all communication with the booker, the receptionist and the lady you meet will be in Japanese.

Before you start, always check the prefecture’s legal requirements to avoid prosecution. There are lots of sites dedicated to the Tokyo adult industry whereby foreigners exchange reviews and recommendations.

It is also wise to research and learn about the various rules, etiquette and terms used during these dealings.

Whether you are solo and up for some fun, or in a loving relationship looking to spice it all up, Tokyo is the place to be in order to find all sorts of crazy experiences.

Tokyo Adult Guide – Akihabara

So what about Akihabara? I know you are intrigued and want to read more about it. Is Akihabara a dark spot on the Tokyo map or just a harmless electronic district?

Hard to say really. The moment you get out of the Akihabara station, you will see massive ads full of anime girls in provocative poses in very short skirts.

It takes time to get to know Akihabara properly. One glance is not enough. You need to insert yourself into the investigation, go from shop to shop, learn, observe, see what others like and what others seek. And it ain’t pretty.

Objectified anime is the main attraction in Akihabara, hidden behind a multi-billion dollar industry for the anime-hungry nation. Dolls are paraded around, provocative figurines are for sale for hundreds of dollars.

Maid cafes are in fierce competition with each other, all sending cute Japanese girls dressed as maids to convince you to follow them into the dark realms. Long lines of customers await their turn to marvel at the innocent maids who serve sugary treats, shaped like bunnies and kittens.

What is meant to be a world created for children, soon became an attraction for the mature, who want to taste the fresh fruits of life once more?

Maid Cafe Japan

Beyond the dark side of Akihabara, there is plenty of good food, fun shops and epic electronic stores waiting to be discovered, without the need to go down the rabbit hole.

Akihabara Maid Cafe & Anime Experience

Maid Cafe Experience at Maidreamin Tokyo

Experience the unique and charming world of Maidreamin maid cafe in Japan! Immerse yourself in the quirky modern customs of the country and be treated like a master or lady for a day. Waitresses dressed in cosplay maid outfits will welcome you and lead you to your seat. Choose from a variety of drink and meal packages, and be entertained with a small chant led by your host maid before enjoying your adorable and delicious food. Take a souvenir photo with your maid and receive a complimentary gift for your visit. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience.

Owl Cafe & Muscle Girls Bar Experience Tour in Tokyo

Indulge in a unique and unforgettable experience at a popular Owl cafe in Ikebukuro! Interact with owls and hedgehogs like never before under the guidance of friendly staff. Enjoy the “muscle show” and dance to lively music while sipping on exclusive Muscle Girl drinks. Marvel at the impressive strength of the girls during their regular flexing and reps on the ab machine. Relax around the bar counter while chatting with the girls and admiring the various sleepy and alert owls. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity!

Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in the exciting world of Japanese anime and gaming culture with a personalized small-group tour of Akihabara! Learn about the unique customs and activities in the area that you wouldn’t experience on your own, including a visit to a retro video game store, a maid cafe, a photo booth, and much more. Benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide who will share their shortlist of top Akihabara experiences, and answer any questions you may have along the way. Enjoy the added perks of maid cafe entry, a drink, and a photo included in the tour. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore one of Japan’s most vibrant cultural districts.

Private Tour Enjoy Shopping in the Sub Culture Paradise Akihabara

Discover the world of Japanese otaku culture in the vibrant Tokyo district of Akihabara with a private tour led by a local guide. Learn about the love of anime, maid cafes, games, and electronics that dominates the area, and visit the shops and cafes favored by locals. Browse for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in the quirky atmosphere. Experience a coffee break with a Japanese twist at a maid cafe, and discover the must-see shops for all things games, electronics, and quirkiness. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing your own start time and the exclusivity of a private tour. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Tokyo Adult Guide – Best Adult Shops in Tokyo

  • M’s Pop Life is obviously the first as it is the largest shop in Tokyo.
    • Address: 101-0021 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Sotokanda, 1 Chome-15-13
  • Wild One is located in Shibuya. They have a crazy basement full of totally wild toys, and three stories dedicated to men only. Women are not allowed past the first floor.
    • Address: 150-0043 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Dogenzaka, 2 Chome-29-14
  • Don Quijote has not just adult toys, but also costumes, lingerie and items intended for cosplay. It is a one-stop for all.
    • Address: 101-0021 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, 4 Chome-3-3 Sotokanda
  • SunshopPermanently Closed – Is a toy and video store on the 3rd floor.
    • Address: 101-0021 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Sotokanda, 3 Chome
  • Tenga Shop is located in Don Quijote (see above) and sells all branded Tenga products. The shop is a bit expensive, but you will certainly find something fun for your individual needs.
  • Condomania is the to-go-to condom store in Harajuku. The shop sells a large variety of condoms and some toys and accessories.
    • Address: 150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 6 Chome-6-8

M’s Pop Life Adult Shop

This wouldn’t be a real Tokyo adult guide if I wouldn’t send you to M’s, Tokyo’s largest adult department store. This is a seven-floor shop that promises to bring your fantasies to life. What can one find in such a place?

The top three floors are full of videos, DVDs and all sorts of posters. You can find games, used panties and all sorts of crazy things intended to spice up a boring Sunday.

Posters Akihabara

The fun starts on the fourth floor, where you can find all sorts of cosplay costumes to satisfy all your fantasies. If you want to dress like your favourite anime character, this might be the place to find everything you need. The third floor is women only and has lingerie and exquisite adult toys. If you want sensual and luxurious, this might be the floor for you.

The second floor is dedicated to bondage and dildos. There are sizes, shapes and colours for everyone.

The first floor is dominated by male-only toys. There are a myriad of toys, onaholes and realistic rubber dolls to grab your attention. There are anime dolls, disposable toys as well as electric powered devices.

Adult Toys Tokyo Adult Guide

One glance at M’s Pop Life department store and you will clearly understand that Japan is still a male-dominated country. For every device designed for women, there are 10 different types of onaholes for male pleasure.

M’s is relatively well priced and has a large variety of products. Expect to spend an hour or so looking for the right toys. When it comes to the male market, Japan seems to be way ahead of Europe.

When it comes to women, though, Japan is way behind, as some of their instruments of pleasures are rather outdated and cumbersome.

As large as M’s may be, space is incredibly tight and there is very little personal space with all the other shoppers around. M’s is a popular tourist spot, so expect crowds in the main season.

Akihabara has more to offer than meets the eye. If your Tokyo adult only activities mean adult shop hoping, then you are in the right district.

Don Quijote Akihabara

Don Quijote is a multi-story shop located 5 minutes away from M’s. Although it’s a general shop, the top floor has a dedicated 18+ section.

You will be surprised to see lots of couples shopping for their next perfect toy as if they were picking ingredients for their dinner party. Overall, space is better organised, although the variety is much more limited than in M’s.

In the same Don Quijote, you will find a whole floor dedicated solely to cosplay and costumes and the selection is insane.

Tokyo Adult Guide – Akihabara Adult Shops Map

It’s easy to get lost in Akihabara. The signs are mostly in Japanese, and stores look very much the same to the untrained eye. Usually, the most interesting stores are on the 2nd or 3rd floor, but you won’t know about them until you find them by accident.

We have created a handy map for you to guide you on your quest to find the best shops in Akihabara. Simply click on the numbered pins on the map to check the location and a few words about each store.

Akihabara itself is very small, marked green on the map. However, throughout the years, the Electric town took over a larger area surrounding Akihabara, marked blue on the map.

We recommend visiting Akihabara during the early evening hours, just after dark, so you can fully immerse yourself in this vibrant, crazy world.

Best Adult Shops in Tokyo Map - Tokyo Adult Guide

Tokyo Adult Guide – Love Hotels

There are so many love hotels in Tokyo especially in the Love Hotel Hill in Shibuya, Kabukicho area, Ikebukuro’s north side, and Uguisudani Station. As a rule, you should avoid the cheapest option, as you usually get what you pay for.

Love Hotels in a well-known area can also take full advantage of their customers and charge more. Weekends are more expensive and try to check in early evenings as otherwise, you will get left with the full-night option which is of course pricier.

Love Hotels are known for their privacy, and you and your company don’t have any other human interaction. There have been times when love hotels refused entry for non-Japanese looking clientele, same-gender couples or more than two individuals. This is not always the case, hence checking the reviews and finding the right love hotels for your needs is paramount.

Tokyo Adult Guide – Best Love Hotels in Tokyo

The following Love Hotels are foreign friendly and highly rated. Please use common sense when visiting these hotels and ensure that you follow all laws, rules, and regulations to avoid any issues.

Love Hotel Perrier (Adult only)
Luxury Hotel8.8

Situated in Tokyo’s largest red-light district, Kabukicho in Shinjuku, HOTEL PERRIER (Adult Only) is a love hotel that features air-conditioned rooms and free private parking. There is a 24-hour front desk on site and free WiFi is provided throughout the property.Every room is fitted with a flat-screen TV with Video-on-Demand, karaoke and a DVD player. The en-suite bathroom comes with a TV and is fitted with a spa bath, bathrobes and slippers. Free toiletries are provided for guest’s convenience.

Click here for prices and book Love Hotel Perrier (Adult only)

Love Hotel An Shinjuku Kabukicho (Adult Only)
Mid-range Hotel 8.8

Situated in Tokyo’s largest nightlife district in Japan, HOTEL & SPA AN Shinjuku Kabukicho is a love hotel designed for adults only.A flat-screen TV with satellite channels, Blu-ray player and game console, as well as a laptop and a computer are featured. You will find a kettle in the room. Every room is fitted with a private bathroom. Extras include bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property.

Click here for prices and book Love Hotel An Shinjuku Kabukicho (Adult Only)

Love Hotel & Spa J-Mex Shinjuku Kabukicho (Adult Only)
Budget Hotel8.8

Situated in Tokyo’s largest nightlife district in Japan, HOTEL & SPA J-MEX Shinjuku Kabukicho is a love hotel designed for adults only.All soundproof rooms at Hotel & SPA J-MEX come with a flat-screen TV with a blu-ray player, VOD, and karaoke. Each room features a different decor and is equipped with a private sauna and a spa bath with a TV. Bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries are provided. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property.

Click here for prices and book Love Hotel & Spa J-Mex Shinjuku Kabukicho (Adult Only)

Love hotels have various attributes, some with themed rooms, weird decorations and access to all sort of toys. There are usually vending machines which sell beverages as well as adult toys and costumes. There is no extra charge for juicy programs either, unlike normal hotels.

Love hotels have “rest” (休憩) times (lasting about 2-3 hours) and “stay” (宿泊) times (overnight). Rest rates start from 3000 yen, while stay rates can be double or triple the price. Note that some hotels don’t allow re-entry as the doors typically close automatically behind you. So ask if this is the case or bear that in mind. Payment is often at a machine, but sometimes through a small window where you can only see the receptionists hands.

Tokyo Adult Guide Night Time

Do you have something to add? Any tips for our Tokyo adult guide? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Cory from You Could Travel entering Senso-ji in Tokyo, Japan

Cory Varga – Cory is a published travel writer and award-winning photographer. She travels full time with her husband and is passionate about creating in-depth travel guides. Cory published her first book on Japanese customs and manners because she’s obsessed with everything Japan. She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester.

Comments

28 responses to “Tokyo Adult Guide: 18+ activities in Japan”

  1. Kristine Avatar
    Kristine

    Haha, this is an interesting side to the Japanese culture. I’ve seen some hentai online before. Bizarre stuff. Great post, thanks for sharing !

    1. Glad you like it. Japan is a bit weird, but still my favorite no matter what

  2. Leah Sullivan Avatar
    Leah Sullivan

    Honestly such an interesting read! I’m fascinated by Japan and this makes me want to go there all the more! Thanks 🙂

    1. I do love Japan as well. Such brilliant place. Weird but awesome

  3. Julianna barnaby Avatar
    Julianna barnaby

    That’s fascinating! Akihabara sounds a little saddening but, as you said, there’s a lot in the area and it’s interesting to explore. I’d love to go to a love hotel and see what all the fuss is about! Brilliant piece.

    1. Honestly, Akihabara is a great place. It’s a bit weird, true, but you just need to understand it’s a different culture. However, still a bit sketchy hehe

  4. Goodness gracious…13? This was really eye-opening, definitely shows another side to Tokyo!

    1. A bit crazy isn’t it? There are some regulations in place, but just not enough…

    2. I blog frequently and I truly thank you for your
      content. Your article has truly peaked my interest. I will take a note
      of your blog and keep checking for new information about once per week.
      I subscribed to your RSS feed as well.

  5. very interesting and unique take of japan. Thanks for sharing. Afterall, it’s the birthplace of hentai. Oops..haha

    1. One of my Japanese friends told me hentai literally means pervert and they don’t like using that word. Now I know why. You are totally right, it is…an unconventional place to say the least.

  6. Haha, this made me laugh. I really am curious what you think of the love hotels, especially the ones with the crazier designs. I went looking for some of them in Tokyo but only found ones with more normal themes. Maybe next time. 😉 (I just wish that people would not abuse children.)

    1. I think love hotels are a great invention. To be fair, I’d much rather know people use love hotels for their needs than ordinary hotels I need to use for my travels. 😀 I would love to check one out, though. One with seriously weird interior…because why not haha

  7. Hehehe! The naughty side of Japan. Thanks for sharing.

    1. It sure is!

  8. I just arrived here, and will have to check out some of these places. Amazing culture. (Aside from the young ones). But not my job to judge I suppose.

    1. Hi Brandon,
      I hope you are loving Japan. The culture truly is so different and awesome. Sure, no place is perfect, but hey, Japan comes pretty close.

      Have lots of fun!

      Kind Regards,

      Cory

  9. Japan has a amazing and unique culture. I love the naughty side of japan! haha : )

  10. william welsh Avatar
    william welsh

    fantastic insight into Japan’s adult life

  11. “What is meant to be a world created for children, soon became an attraction for the mature, who want to taste the fresh fruits of life once more.”

    This one sentence is very nicely put out, but I think it misses the mark. Japan is an isolating culture – especially when you’re in a giant city like Tokyo. The people who indulge in the kind of culture you find in Akiba are missing out (or their former self did) on the ‘fresh fruits of life’, and either are looking for substitutes or never evolved past that point.

    1. You are right, Roger. We know there are so many aspects when it comes to a Tokyo adult guide. We read extensively about the subject and watched some super documentaries about how incredibly multi-dimensional this problem is.
      One of them being the otaku or the girl bands which are meant to inspire the otaku culture. It’s insane!! And yes, that’s totally correct, people like this really missed out on opportunities. Not that it should be an excuse for their behaviour but rather a wake-up call for the current issues Japan is struggling with.

  12. this made me to go japan thanks

    1. Japan sure is a special place.

  13. Christine Jacobs Avatar
    Christine Jacobs

    I love Japan country and once been applying for a job there.

    1. Good luck! We hope our Tokyo adult guide helped you understand some unconventional aspects of the culture there 🙂

  14. Takuma H Avatar
    Takuma H

    Thank you

  15. Thats Great

  16. Ari Prabowo Avatar
    Ari Prabowo

    Thank you very much for the insight!
    I’ll be sure to check these places if I ever visit Tokyo in the future…for research purposes, of course.

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