Osaka, a vibrant city in Japan known for its culinary delights and bustling nightlife, also offers a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. Among its diverse array of bars, lesbian bars stand out as welcoming spaces for women to socialize, relax, and connect. From cozy and intimate to lively and energetic, Osaka’s lesbian bars cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
LGBTQ+ culture in Japan is often discreet, with many individuals remaining closeted within their families and workplaces. This societal pressure contributes to the prevalence of small, independently-owned lesbian bars, where patrons can feel safe and accepted. These bars often have a strong sense of community, and photography is generally discouraged to protect the privacy of patrons who may not be openly out. This is why the photos in this post will be a bit different than some of the other articles EveryQueer has on nightlife around the world.
General etiquette in Japanese bars includes pouring drinks for others and having them reciprocate, raising your glass and saying “Kanpai!” before drinking, ordering food with drinks, and refraining from tipping. It’s also important to note that Japanese bars often have a quieter atmosphere compared to Western bars.
Jake
Jake is a small, welcoming bar in Osaka that offers a relaxing and healing atmosphere. It is a safe space for queer women, transgender and nonbinary people as well as those who understand and support them. The bar’s intimate setting and friendly staff create a comfortable environment where patrons can unwind and socialize. Jake offers a wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks and cafe menu items, making it a great place to visit regardless of your drinking preference. Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or a fun-filled evening with friends, Jake is the perfect spot.
Bar Lemon
Bar Lemon is a cozy and welcoming lesbian bar in Osaka with an intimate atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. The bar offers drink specials and is known for its friendly owner, who is particularly welcoming to foreigners. The small, intimate space creates a relaxed and comfortable environment, making it a great place to unwind and socialize with other patrons.
3F
3F is a lesbian bar on the 3rd floor of a building in Kamiyamacho, Osaka. It offers a mature atmosphere in a relaxing space with a carefully selected interior. They host events and meetup for the community specifically for older women over 50 years old. The bar is open Wednesdays from 8 PM to Saturday at 8 PM and Sundays from 6 PM to 8 PM. The cover charge is 1,000 JPY and includes snacks and appetizers. 3F is a women-only bar, and English is not spoken, but translation applications can be used.
Café & Bar BU
Café & Bar BU is a charming women-only cafe and bar. The cafe is open year-round, typically from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM. There is a cover charge of ¥700, with drinks starting at ¥600. Known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, the cafe offers a variety of drinks and light snacks. It’s a popular spot for women to unwind, socialize, and enjoy good company. The cafe opens its doors to men on Sundays only.
Douxce
Douxce is a welcoming lesbian bar in Doyama, Osaka, a local favorite since 2005. With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Douxce is perfect for both catching up with friends and making new connections. Whether you prefer a quiet drink or a lively conversation, the owner, Rin, is there to ensure you have an enjoyable experience with delicious drinks in hand.
Each Color
Each Color is a lesbian bar in the Doyama area of Osaka. It caters to a more mature crowd, offering a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere on Tuesdays through Fridays from 8 PM to midnight and Saturdays from 9 PM until closing. The bar is closed on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Jakara Café
Jakara Café is a lesbian bar in Osaka, Japan that also functions as a cafe. They have a rotating menu with a wide variety of menu items, including a special lunch set. The bar caters to those with a late-night appetite, staying open from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM. Keep in mind that Jakara Café is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays, and also be aware that they do not accept credit cards so plan your visit accordingly.
Love 22
Love 22 is a lesbian bar in Osaka, Japan, known for its whiskey selection and its emphasis on conversation. Owned by a 36-year-old lesbian, the bar offers a lively atmosphere on the second floor of the Iwata Kaikan Building. It’s open from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM, but be sure to note that Mondays are closed. There’s a cover charge of 1,000 yen. If you’re looking to sing your heart out, karaoke is available, but keep in mind that the bar is cash-only and Wi-Fi-free.
Niji
Niji, meaning “rainbow” in Japanese, is a women-only bar in Osaka that caters to a specifically lesbian clientele. Niji is a cozy space with a large U-shaped bar. The venue can hold around 15 guests and the space is designed for connection with the other patrons.
Ponimoi
Ponimoi is a popular lesbian bar in Osaka, known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. It’s a great place to relax, socialize, and enjoy a variety of drinks. With a loose Hawaiian theme, the bar is a fun and casual place to hang out.
