3 Gay Bars in Fukuoka City

Those longing for the large gay clubs found in Osaka or Tokyo may be disappointed to hear that there are no such venues in Fukuoka. Yet, what you will find are welcoming spaces full of friendly patrons and staff exuding southern omotenashi (hospitality).

Fukuoka City has over 100 establishments dedicated to the LGBT community, and though they are not always easy to find, they are concentrated in the Hakata district. Fukuoka has everything from swanky bars to massage parlors to LGBT community centers, but for now, here are three of the friendliest and fun LGBT bars in Fukuoka.

Bar Overall

If you are in the mood for some cocktails and karaoke, drop by this friendly gay bar. Bar Overall is located right at the entrance of Sumiyoshi neighborhood, one of the centers of the gay scene. The owner is very welcoming of foreigners and can communicate in simple English. The relaxed vibe of this chic bar makes it a great place to start your night. On Monday through Thursday, arrive here before 9 p.m. to get free karaoke all night.

• Anyone (Women must be accompanied by a gay man)
• Mon-Thur,8 p.m. – 4 a.m.; Fri-Sun, 8 p.m. – 5 a.m.
• Map
• http://www.bar-overall.com/top.html
• https://twitter.com/overall_hakata

Bar G Pop

Photo by: GPop

As the name implies, Bar G Pop has a fun and bubbly atmosphere, thanks in part to its chatty and colorful staff. High-energy bartenders keep you fully entertained with their silly antics, singing and dancing along to the karaoke. Adjacent to Bar Overall, Bar G Pop is decorated with lanterns, picture frames, and couches, giving it an at-home vibe. It’s also a mixed bar, so women are welcome, but it says on their website to call in advance.

• Mixed bar (Women should call in advance.)
• Mon-Sun, 8 p.m. – 4 a.m.
• Map
• http://www.bar-gpop.com/photo.html

Bar Dai Dai

Photo by: BarDaiDai

Bar Dai Dai has been a part of the Sumiyoshi scene for over 30 years and for good reason. With plenty of bar seating, couches, tables and lots of monitors for karaoke, this bar feels like a high-class lounge. While Bar Dai Dai is well-suited for groups, it is strictly gay men only. On any given weekend, it feels as if everyone in the area eventually ends up at Bar Dai Dai, making it a fun stop to meet new people.

• Men Seeking Men
• Mon-Sun, 8 p.m. – 4 a.m.
• Map
• https://twitter.com/daidai_hakata