Practical
Getting to the Shows
Hotels, trains, and airports for the rooms we know best, mostly in Tokyo. The show calendar covers venues across Japan.
Trip watchlist
Tell us the dates.
Drop the dates and what you're chasing. We'll watch for noise, hardcore, grindcore, doom, sludge, punk, and metal shows as venue calendars fill in.
Flights
Tokyo has two airports. Narita (NRT) is the main international hub — cheaper flights, but 60-90 minutes from central Tokyo by train. Haneda (HND) is closer (20-30 min) and has more domestic + some international routes.
Hotels Near the Venues
The best strategy: stay in the neighborhood where most of the shows you want to see are happening. Tokyo trains stop around midnight, so being within walking distance of the venue means you never have to leave a show early.
Ryokan
A traditional Japanese inn. Tatami floors, futons, communal baths, sometimes kaiseki dinner included. Worth doing for at least one or two nights of your trip, even if you stay in a hotel the rest of the time.
Getting Around Tokyo
Tokyo’s train system is the best in the world. You don’t need a car. Get an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) at any station — tap on, tap off, works on all trains and buses. If you’re also traveling outside Tokyo, a JR Pass pays for itself in one round trip to Osaka.
Pocket Wifi & SIM
You need internet to navigate Tokyo. A pocket wifi device or data SIM is essential. Pick up at the airport on arrival, or order in advance and have it shipped to your hotel.
Tips from the Scene
Last train is around midnight
Most shows end between 21:00-22:00, so you’ll make it. Late shows and after-parties mean either staying out until 5am first trains, or staying in the neighborhood.
Bring cash
Most live houses are cash only at the door. ATMs in convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson) accept international cards. Withdraw yen before heading to a show.
Drink charge is normal
Almost every venue charges a separate drink fee (usually ¥600-800) on top of the ticket price. This is standard, not a scam. You get a drink token at the door.
Advance tickets are cheaper
“ADV” (advance) price is always less than “DOOR.” Buy ahead when you can — sometimes at the venue the night before, sometimes through the band directly.
For a short visit
Find the shows worth making time for
Trip Pass gives you personal advice across your whole visit: the best-fit shows for your dates, where to stay, eat and drink, and other experiences worth adding as needed. It includes practical ticket guidance, advance-list help for up to three shows, and one follow-up adjustment. $50 one-time, with no subscription. Start with a free Trip Alert; your recommendation email includes the option to upgrade.