Club Harlem

You're Reading

Synopsis

As the name suggests, Club Harlem is Tokyo’s only hip-hop club, at least the only one I have ever heard of, and 2017 marks their 20th anniversary. Representing both traditional hip-hop from the United States as well as Japanese hip-hop, there is always a healthy crowd of people here, eager to drink and dance the night away. Plus, whereas their neighbor to the left, Club Atom (to be hyperlinked has bouncers that love to deny entry if you don’t have a female accompanying you, the bouncers at Harlem are much more accommodating. I came here regularly while living in Shibuya.

After clearing security on the first floor the main level is home to a huge dance floor, booths to sit and, of course, bars to keep you drinking. There is even an upper lounge, bar and VIP area if you find this level too crowded. Harlem has several resident DJs but is known for their Japanese hip-hop events and occasional performances by international artists. They host big parties every Tuesday and Thursday - Saturday, but are frequently closed on Sunday and Tuesday.