What is an Idol Concept Cafe?
An idol concept cafe is a type of themed cafe that has developed primarily in Japan, centered around specific idol groups or idol culture. These cafes are popular as places that provide a special experience for idol fans. The cafe’s interior, menu, staff costumes, and service all incorporate elements related to idols, creating a special moment for visiting fans.
For a detailed article about con-cafes, visit:
https://conconcafe.com/what-is-concafe/
Concept and Features
The biggest feature of idol concept cafes is that, true to their name, an idol-related concept is reflected throughout the entire experience. Let me explain the main features!
1. Themed Interior
The cafe’s interior is designed based on the world view of a specific idol group or idol. For example, the walls may be decorated with idol posters and photos, and idol-related merchandise is displayed throughout the cafe. Such decorations provide a familiar space for fans and help create a sense of unity with the idols.
2. Special Menu
The menu also features many idol-related items, including dishes and drinks named after idols. For example, there may be menu items recreating an idol’s favorite food or drinks incorporating an idol’s image color. Additionally, limited-time menus tied to seasons or events are often introduced, providing an exciting experience for repeat visitors.
3. Staff Costumes and Service
The cafe staff members wear costumes modeled after idol outfits and provide service as if they were idols themselves. This allows customers visiting the cafe to enjoy an experience akin to interacting with actual idols. Furthermore, the cafes offer ample fan service, including opportunities for communication with staff members and cheki photo shoots (instant camera photography).
The Relationship Between Fans and the Cafe
Idol concept cafes serve as a valuable means for fans to feel closer to their idols. Let’s delve deeper into the relationship between fans and these cafes.
1. Formation of Fan Communities
The cafes function as gathering places for fans. By providing spaces where fans can discuss their shared interests in idols, these cafes facilitate interactions and connections among fans. This can lead to the formation of new friendships and active information exchange. The establishment of fan communities further energizes support activities for the idols.
2. Fan Events
Cafes regularly host fan events, such as release parties for new songs, birthday celebrations, and fan meetings. These events offer opportunities for direct interaction with idols, creating unforgettable memories for fans. Exclusive merchandise and special benefits are also frequently available, maintaining fan interest.
3. Closeness to Idols
Idol concept cafes provide fans with a sense of closeness to their idols. Through interactions with staff members, enjoying idol-related decor, and special menu items, fans feel a diminished distance from their idols. Moreover, when actual idols participate in events, it becomes the ultimate experience for fans.
Differences Between Idol Concept Cafes and Underground Idols
While both idols featured in idol concept cafes and underground idols play important roles in Japanese idol culture, there are several clear differences in their activities, goals, and relationships with fans. Let me explain these differences in detail.
Idols in Idol Concept Cafes
1. Activity Location
The idols of idol concept cafes primarily work at specific cafes. These cafes are decorated based on the idol’s theme, and the menus and services are also related to the idol. While working as cafe staff, they provide idol-like hospitality to the customers who visit.
2. Roles and Activities
The main job of cafe idols is hospitality work. As cafe staff, they take orders and serve food and drinks, but they provide services with an awareness of the idol character and performance. During events, they may perform singing and dancing, but they are primarily involved in the operation of the cafe.
3. Relationship with Fans
Idols at idol concept cafes have many opportunities to interact directly with customers who visit the cafe. Since they interact with customers at close range, their relationship with fans is extremely intimate. Through interactions with regular customers, they can build strong bonds with fans. Fan interaction events such as cheki (photo) shoots and autograph sessions are also held frequently.
Underground Idols
1. Activity Location
Underground idols perform in various places such as live houses, clubs, and event halls. The term “underground idol” comes from the fact that their activities take place not in the mainstream (above ground), but in relatively less well-known places (underground).
2. Roles and Activities
Underground idols primarily engage in live performance activities. Their main role is to perform singing and dancing for their fans’ enjoyment. They also engage in various promotional activities such as releasing CDs, selling merchandise, and sharing information on social media.
3. Relationship with Fans
Underground idols also have a close relationship with their fans, but unlike idol concept cafe idols, their interactions are centered around live venues and events. After live performances, during the merchandise sales time, they can directly converse with fans, take cheki photos, and deepen their bonds. As a result, they tend to have many passionate fans, and fan communities are also easily formed.
Summary of Commonalities and Differences
Both idol concept cafe idols and underground idols value an intimate relationship with their fans and are important figures supporting idol culture. However, there are significant differences in their activity locations, contents, and career paths.
- Activity Location: Hospitality work at cafes vs. Performances at live houses and event venues.
- Roles and Activities: Providing service as cafe staff vs. Live performances and promotional activities.
- Relationship with Fans: Intimate interactions at cafes vs. Fan interactions at live shows and events.
Introducing Recommended Idol Concept Cafes!
From here, I will introduce recommended idol concept cafes for each area in Tokyo!
【Shinjuku】
【Shinjuku】 Idol Che – Aidoru Che
“Idol Che” is an idol cafe bar located in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district, where you can directly interact with active idols, gravure models, cosplayers, and casts aspiring to be future stars. Idol Che supports and encourages the dreams of those pursuing careers as idols or models, providing a place for them to pursue their dreams.
【Shinjuku】 Maimai Debiru
“Maimai Debiru” is an idol-themed concept cafe produced by the Instagram-famous Sakibon-san. Located in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district, this cafe features many cute casts who are active as idols and influencers. Conceptualized around “landmine idols,” the casts’ visuals and performances are top-notch. They regularly hold live shows and engage in musical activities centered around Tokyo. Checking out their music on streaming services before visiting can enhance your experience.
【Shinjuku】 Concept Cafe Royal Melt
Located in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district, “Royal Melt,” nicknamed “Roimero,” is a concept cafe known for its glamour and elegance. With over 80 casts, including famous influencers and current/former idols, this cafe fuses luxury and cuteness. Boasting Kabukicho’s strongest “face ranking” (looks ranking), this cafe is sure to captivate you with its charm on your first visit.
【Akihabara】
【Akihabara】 Akihabara Dear Stage
Famous as the birthplace of Dempagumi.inc, 【Akihabara Dear Stage】 is a place where you can enjoy the passionate performances of girls aspiring to be idols or anime song singers. Located in the heart of Akihabara, this is a must-visit holy ground for idol fans. The live floor showcases fiery performances day after day, allowing you to witness the birth of new stars. After the live shows, you can discuss your impressions with friends at the bright bar on the second floor, or spend a relaxing time at the cozy bar on the third floor.
【Akihabara】 AMASTAGE Akihabara Main Store
The idol concept cafe “Live Cafe&Bar AMASTAGE Akihabara Main Store,” which is attracting attention in Akihabara, is a stage-equipped live cafe & bar where current female college students who love idol dancing work as casts. It is highly recommended for those who want to see real idols up close.
All of AMASTAGE’s casts are current female college students, and all of them have experience participating in the nationwide idol copy dance competition. As a result, their performances boast an exceptionally high quality.
【Akihabara】 SeeKa
Located in Akihabara, 【SeeKa】 is a concept cafe (also known as a “conkafe”) where active underground idols gather. This cafe features a carefully selected lineup of incredibly cute casts, each with their own charm.
All the casts at 【SeeKa】 are active underground idols. They are handpicked by the manager, who draws from her own experience and knowledge as an idol. The manager herself is an active idol, and the casts she has chosen with her unique perspective are all exceptionally adorable.
【Ikebukuro】
【Ikebukuro】 Concept Cafe Anipori Ikebukuro Store
Located near Ikebukuro’s north exit, “Animal Police Ikebukuro Station,” nicknamed “Anipori,” is a unique place that blends the concepts of animals and police. Here, the police serve as charming casts, engaging in various “training” activities like enjoying drinks, shisha, and darts as part of their daily duties. Exuding an energetic and fun atmosphere that’s hardly recognizable as a police station, visitors can act as senior police officers, observing the lively activities of the police casts.
【Ikebukuro】 Entry Ikebukuro Store
Located near Ikebukuro Station’s east exit, “Entry” is a casual maid cafe with over 10 years of history, offering an enjoyable experience for both maid cafe fans and first-time visitors. Featuring a cozy and casual atmosphere, this cafe aims to create a space where anyone can feel at ease, without being bound by the traditional maid cafe format. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to experience the charm of maid cafes or are seeking a new form of entertainment.
【Ikebukuro】 OWL RED
Located near Ikebukuro’s east exit, the men’s concept cafe “OWL RED” has gained attention as a new form of entertainment space. Opened on February 24, 2023, this cafe is not just an ordinary cafe, but a “nurturing men’s concept cafe” where handsome casts who have passed a selection process perform, allowing visitors to witness and support their growth.
With a system that awards points for each visit and allows visitors to vote for their favorite cast, determining their rankings, “OWL RED” fosters a strong bond between the casts and users. It’s a special place where casts and users can grow together and pursue their dreams.
【Shibuya】
【Shibuya】 +idolist
The “idoRe:” cafe & bar is a special place for former idols to pursue their dreams once again. Here, their talents and passions shine, allowing many fans to enjoy their charm. By enjoying stage performances along with a variety of alcoholic beverages, customers can have a special one-night experience. As a new stage for former idols, it will continue to provide hope and entertainment to many people.
【Shibuya】 Shibuya Wonder Ground
Located in Shibuya’s live house district, Shibuya Wonder Ground is a special cafe & bar where active talents work as staff. Here, you can directly interact with talents engaged in various entertainment activities, such as idols, voice actors, and actresses. In a cozy, homely space, you can discover new favorites or enjoy casual conversations with talents you already support.
【Shibuya】 Luna Amour
“Luna Amour” is a neo-concept cafe that opened in December 2023, with the concept of late-night drinking. This cafe is produced by former NMB48 member Rionna Ota and former SKE48 member Aina Hoshino, having a strong connection with the idol industry. It is conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from Shibuya Miyamasaka-ue, a 7-minute walk from Shibuya Station, and an 8-minute walk from Omotesando Station.
