Located just outside Kadena Gate 2 at the Kadena Airbase in Okinawa City, 7th Heaven Koza provides the area with its fix of hard, punk and alternative rock. Find a seat at the bar or one of the tables, or see your favorite artists up close from the standing space right in front of the stage. Headliners here include Mursaki and 8Ball, though DJs also spin house and reggae on occasion. The venue is only open on the weekends, so be sure to check the website if you plan to visit on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The cover charge generally includes a drink.
Owner Hidefumi Kamura plays the piano at this jazz bar, frequently mixing it up with guest performers. Though the musical menu is generally standard jazz, you never know when the musicians will catch some inspiration and start improvising late into the wee hours of the morning. Unlike the other bars in Naha City, this venue serves borscht alongside the usual Orion beer.
With special guest DJs and performers, it's no wonder that Club Twister in Ginowan City reaches its 700-person capacity. Only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the cover charge for men is generally JPY2000, whereas women are usually charged around JPY1500. The vast dance floor accommodates all styles of dancing, including occasional salsa nights and belly-dancing or break dancing performances. See the website for special promotions, like all-you-can-drink deals, and prices.
This venue was once a thriving cabaret theater, and has been transformed into one of the liveliest nightclubs in Naha City. The dramatic chandelier hanging from the ceiling hints to the club's cabaret past, but the disco balls set the party atmosphere. With standing room for 360, people crowd the doors to get a good spot from which to watch their favorite bands and live DJs perform. Prices and operating hours depend on the event, but ticket prices start at around JPY2000, and the doors generally open around 6:00p. Details are on the website.
American-owned karaoke bar and lounge, American Idol is a place where all can come for a night of letting loose. With the newest karaoke technology, songs in five different languages, and a staff that speaks English, this venue is perfect for international guests. Despite its attractive features, American Idol is also very affordable.
With a name loosely translated as "fireball," Hinotama Hall's dim, red lighting, psychedelic wall art and disco ball all promise a great night out for any lover of live DJ house music. There's no seating in this venue, but if you want to take a break and grab a bite to eat you can head to Fooding UNO downstairs. There's no cover on some nights, so be sure to visit the website to check out their events.
Located just outside Kadena Gate 2 at the Kadena Airbase in Okinawa City, 7th Heaven Koza provides the area with its fix of hard, punk and alternative rock. Find a seat at the bar or one of the tables, or see your favorite artists up close from the standing space right in front of the stage. Headliners here include Mursaki and 8Ball, though DJs also spin house and reggae on occasion. The venue is only open on the weekends, so be sure to check the website if you plan to visit on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The cover charge generally includes a drink.
Down the street from Disco Zone, the club previously known as Club Pyramid is now Club Else. The two-story venue occasionally hosts live bands and can be rented out for weddings and private events. Every Friday night is ladies night, which means admission is free for ladies until 23:00. The cover fee is generally around JPY1000, but varies according to special events. Check the website for free admission nights.
Located in Okinawa City, Disco Zone has everything that will keep you dancing to the 1970s and 1980s tunes until closing. The venue encompasses a dining area, cozy booths, a full bar, and a dance floor complete with DJ, flashing lights and a disco ball. Entry is denied to people wearing sandals or work attire, and please note that foreigners are not welcome unless they arrive in a couple. Disco Zone is closed on Wednesdays.
Near MOD'S in Chatan, Salt & Pepper Performance Venue adds to the concert experience with a full bar on the second floor and an expansive stage where performers can rock out. The third Monday of each month is known as Monday Lovers nights, where singles and couples can come and mix to the sounds of reggae and soul. Go to the website to purchase discounted advance tickets to events and to check the schedule.
With special guest DJs and performers, it's no wonder that Club Twister in Ginowan City reaches its 700-person capacity. Only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the cover charge for men is generally JPY2000, whereas women are usually charged around JPY1500. The vast dance floor accommodates all styles of dancing, including occasional salsa nights and belly-dancing or break dancing performances. See the website for special promotions, like all-you-can-drink deals, and prices.
Providing a performance space for all types of music from bossa nova and acoustic piano to jazz, rock and punk, Groove's mission is to foster self-expression. The well-used furniture and hand-painted mural (courtesy of a local guitarist) only serve to enhance the intimacy of the concert experience. Enjoy some cocktails and local awamori with the music for an inspiring end to a relaxing day. The venue is sometimes closed on Mondays, and sets generally start around 8p. Check the website for details.