What is an Idol Concept Cafe?
An idol concept cafe is a type of theme cafe that has primarily developed in Japan, themed around a specific idol group or idol culture. These cafes are popular among idol fans as a place that provides a special experience. The cafe’s decor, menu, staff uniforms, and services all incorporate elements related to idols, creating a unique experience for fans who visit.
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Concept and Features
The biggest feature of an idol concept cafe is, as the name suggests, that the entire concept is themed around idols. Here are the main features explained!
1. Themed Decor
The decor of the cafe is designed based on a specific idol group or the world of idols. For example, the walls are adorned with posters and photos of idols, and displays inside the cafe showcase goods related to the idols. This kind of decoration creates a space that feels familiar to fans, allowing them to feel a sense of connection with their favorite idols.
2. Special Menu
The menu also includes many items related to idols, such as dishes and drinks named after idols. For example, there are dishes that recreate a specific idol’s favorite food or drinks that incorporate the idol’s image color. In addition, limited-time menus are introduced for seasons or events, offering something special for repeat customers.
3. Staff Costumes and Service
The cafe staff wear costumes inspired by idol outfits and provide service similar to how an idol might interact with their fans. This allows customers to enjoy an experience as if they are interacting with a real idol. Additionally, fans can enjoy personal interactions with the staff, including taking “cheki” (instant camera photos) together, enhancing the fan service experience.
The Relationship Between Fans and the Cafe
Idol concept cafes serve as valuable places for fans to feel closer to idols. Here is a more detailed explanation of the relationship between fans and the cafe.
1. Formation of Fan Communities
The cafe also functions as a gathering place for fans. By providing a space for fans to talk about idols, fan-to-fan interaction is promoted. This often leads to new friendships and active information sharing. As fan communities form, support activities for idols also become more active.
2. Fan Events
Regular fan events are held at the cafe. For example, new song release events, birthday events, and fan meetings are just some examples. These events provide opportunities for direct interaction with idols, creating unforgettable memories for fans. There are also many event-exclusive goods and perks, which keep fans engaged.
3. Feeling Closer to Idols
Idol concept cafes allow fans to feel closer to idols. By interacting with the staff and enjoying idol-themed decor and menus, fans feel a sense of proximity to their idols. Sometimes, actual idols participate in events, making it the ultimate experience for fans.
Differences Between Idol Concept Cafes and Underground Idols
Idols from idol concept cafes and underground idols are both important parts of Japan’s idol culture. However, there are several distinct differences in their activities, purposes, and relationships with fans. Below is a detailed explanation of these differences.
Idols in Idol Concept Cafes
1. Activity Locations
Idols in idol concept cafes mainly work at specific cafes. These cafes are decorated according to the idol theme, with menus and services also related to idols. While working as cafe staff, they provide idol-like customer service to visitors.
2. Roles and Activities
The main role of cafe idols is customer service. While they take orders and serve food and drinks as cafe staff, they offer service with an awareness of their idol characters and performances. While they may perform songs and dances during events, their primary role is contributing to the operation of the cafe.
3. Relationship with Fans
Idols in concept cafes have frequent opportunities to interact directly with visitors. Due to the close proximity with customers, they form intimate relationships with their fans. Through regular interactions with frequent visitors, they build strong bonds with fans. Events such as cheki (instant camera photos) and autograph sessions also frequently occur, offering more opportunities for fan engagement.
Underground Idols
1. Activity Locations
Underground idols perform at various venues, such as live houses, clubs, and event halls. The term “underground idol” comes from the fact that their activities take place in less mainstream, lower-profile (underground) venues.
2. Roles and Activities
Underground idols focus mainly on live performances. Their main role is to entertain fans with singing and dancing performances. In addition, they engage in various promotional activities, including releasing CDs, selling merchandise, and sharing updates through social media.
3. Relationship with Fans
Like concept cafe idols, underground idols maintain close relationships with fans. However, their interactions primarily occur at live venues and events. After their live performances, they often hold merchandise sales and photo sessions, where they engage directly with fans, strengthening their bonds. These interactions help foster passionate fan bases and encourage the formation of fan communities.
Summary of Similarities and Differences
Both idol concept cafe idols and underground idols play a vital role in supporting idol culture, with a focus on building close relationships with their fans. However, there are significant differences in their activity locations, roles, and career paths.
- Activity Locations: Customer service in cafes vs. performances at live houses and event venues.
- Roles and Activities: Providing services as cafe staff vs. live performances and promotional activities.
- Relationship with Fans: Close interactions in cafes vs. fan interactions at live performances and events.
Recommended Idol Concept Cafes!
Here, we will introduce recommended idol concept cafes by area in Tokyo!
【Shinjuku】
【Shinjuku】 Idolche~Idolche~
“Idolche” is an idol cafe bar located in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho, where you can directly interact with current idols, gravure models, cosplayers, and cast members aspiring to become future stars. Idolche is a place that supports the dreams of those pursuing careers as idols or models and allows you to cheer them on.
【Shinjuku】 Maimai Devil
“Maimai Devil” is an idol-themed concept cafe produced by the popular Instagram influencer Sakibon. Located in Shinjuku Kabukicho, this cafe features many cute cast members who are active as idols and influencers. With the concept of “Jirai-kei” (poisonous style) idols, the cast’s visuals and performances are top-notch. They regularly hold live performances and are also active in the Tokyo music scene. It’s even more fun if you listen to their music on streaming services before visiting.
【Shinjuku】 Concept Cafe Royal Melt
Located in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho, “Royal Melt” (commonly known as “Roimero”) is a concept cafe known for its glamorous and luxurious atmosphere. With over 80 cast members, including well-known influencers and current or former idols, this cafe offers a unique blend of elegance and cuteness. Known for having one of Kabukicho’s highest “face ranks” (looks rankings), it’s a place that will captivate you from your first visit.
【Akihabara】
【Akihabara】 Royal Afilia Chronicle S
Located in Akihabara, “Royal Afilia Chronicle S” is part of the Afilia Group and opened in 2016. The cafe’s concept is “Scramble Crossing,” symbolizing a place where people’s lives intersect and new encounters are made. Based on the story of a grand magical kingdom, customers are welcomed as “senpai” (senior) when they visit. Once you step into the cafe, you’ll become part of the magical kingdom, spending special time with the cast members.
【Akihabara】 Akihabara Dear Stage
Famous as the birthplace of Dempagumi.inc, Akihabara Dear Stage is a place where you can enjoy passionate performances by girls aspiring to become idols or anime song singers. Located in the heart of Akihabara, it’s a must-visit spot for idol fans. On the live floor, energetic performances unfold daily, and you can witness the birth of new stars. After the live shows, you can chat with friends about your impressions at the lively bar on the second floor or enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at the calm bar on the third floor.
【Akihabara】 AMASTAGE Akihabara Main Store
A notable idol concept cafe in Akihabara, “Live Cafe & Bar AMASTAGE Akihabara Main Store,” features a stage attached to the cafe where current university students, who are passionate about idol dance, perform. It is highly recommended for those who want to experience real idols up close. All AMASTAGE cast members are current university students who have participated in national idol dance competitions, ensuring their performances are of the highest quality.
【Akihabara】 SeeKa
Located in Akihabara, “SeeKa” is a concept cafe (commonly referred to as “con-cafe”) where current underground idols gather. This cafe features a carefully selected group of incredibly cute cast members, chosen by the idol store manager herself. All the cast members at SeeKa are active underground idols, personally selected by the store manager based on her experience and knowledge as an idol. The manager herself is also an active idol, and the cast she chooses are all exceptionally adorable.
【Ikebukuro】
【Ikebukuro】 Concept Cafe Anipoli Ikebukuro
Located near the north exit of Ikebukuro, “Anipoli” (short for “Animal Police”) is a unique place that combines animal and police themes. The cast, acting as police officers, engage in various “training activities” like serving drinks, offering hookah, and playing darts. The lively and fun atmosphere makes it feel like anything but a police station. Guests can enjoy the experience as senior officers, watching over the hard-working police cast.
【Ikebukuro】 Entry Ikebukuro Store
Located near Ikebukuro Station’s east exit, “Entry” is a casual maid cafe with over 10 years of history. It offers a welcoming atmosphere for both maid cafe enthusiasts and first-time visitors. Known for its casual and homey environment, Entry strives to create a space where anyone can feel comfortable visiting. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to experience the charm of a maid cafe or are seeking new entertainment.
【Ikebukuro】OWL RED
“OWL RED,” a men’s concept cafe that opened near Ikebukuro East Exit, has been gaining attention as a new form of entertainment space. Opened on February 24, 2023, this is not just a regular cafe, but a place where handsome men, who have passed a competitive selection, work as cast members. Customers can watch their growth and support them at this “育成型メンコン” (growing-type men’s concept cafe).
Every time you visit, you earn points, and you can vote for your favorite cast members, which helps determine their ranking. This system creates strong bonds between the cast and the users. “OWL RED” is a special place where both the cast and the customers can grow and chase their dreams together.
【Shibuya】
【Shibuya】+idolist
The “+idolist” Cafe & Bar is a special place where former idols can once again chase their dreams. Here, their talent and passion shine, and many fans come to enjoy their charm. With a wide variety of drinks and stage performances, customers can enjoy a special experience for the night. As a new stage for former idols, “+idolist” will continue to offer 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 idols, voice actors, actresses, and other talents involved in various entertainment activities. In a cozy, homey atmosphere, you can find a new favorite or enjoy leisurely conversations with talents you already support.
【Shibuya】Luna Amour
“Luna Amour,” a new neo-concept cafe with a drinking theme, opened in December 2023. Produced by former NMB48 member Rioka Ota and former SKE48 member Mana Hoshino, this cafe has strong connections to the idol industry. Conveniently located just 1 minute from Shibuya Miyamasuzaka, 7 minutes from Shibuya Station, and 8 minutes from Omotesando Station, it offers a great experience for those interested in the idol world.
