Karaoke is an entertainment facility that can be easily enjoyed with friends, coworkers, family, or even alone. There are a wide variety of ways to enjoy it, and it is now used not only for singing, but also for telework, musical instrument practice, and watching sports.
However, for first-time users or visitors to Japan, the process of entering, the pricing system, and the etiquette may be a bit confusing. In this article, a karaoke-loving FUN! JAPAN editor will explain in detail everything from the basic usage of karaoke to the latest ways to enjoy it.
How to Enjoy Karaoke? A Smooth Process from Entrance to Exit
To use a karaoke venue smoothly, it’s helpful to first understand the general process.
Step ① : Reservation or Check-In
Start by either making a reservation at your chosen karaoke venue or going directly to the front desk to check in. Recently, more and more karaoke chains offer easy online reservations or app-based booking systems. On weekends or holidays when it's expected to be crowded, making a reservation can ensure a smooth entry.
If you check in at the front desk, let the staff know how many people are in your group and how long you plan to stay. You’ll also be asked to fill out a form with your name and contact information.
At check-in, you’ll typically need to choose between a one-drink order or a free drink plan (all-you-can-drink). Even if you only want to use the karaoke room without ordering drinks, most places will still require you to choose one of these options.
Step ② : Choose Your Karaoke Machine
Karaoke systems such as DAM and JOYSOUND are available, each offering different features like the number of available songs, scoring functions, and original artist videos.
If you have a preferred system, be sure to request it when checking in. If you don’t specify, the staff will usually assign you a recommended or available machine.
Step ③ : Entering the Room
Once you’ve checked in, you’ll be told your room number. Go to the assigned room, and use the "denmoku" (karaoke remote control) to search for songs and add them to the playlist. Once your song is selected and queued, it will start playing so just switch on the microphone and sing freely. While one person is singing, others can listen and prepare their next song selection to keep things moving smoothly without downtime.
If you chose the drink bar option, you can use the designated cup provided and help yourself. If you selected the one-drink order option, use the phone in the room or the touchscreen panel to order, and the staff will bring your drink to the room.
Step ④ : 10-Minute Call, Checkout, and Payment
As your session nears its end, the room phone will usually ring 10 minutes before your time is up to let you know it’s almost over. When you receive this call, it’s a good idea to start wrapping up with one last song and begin tidying the room. If the venue isn’t too busy, you may be able to request an extension during this call.
Before leaving the room, double-check that you haven’t left behind any personal items or valuables. Bring your bill slip to the front desk, settle the payment, and you’re all set to leave.
Let's Follow the Rules! Karaoke Etiquette and Age Restrictions
Karaoke is a shared entertainment space used by many people, so it’s important to be considerate of both other customers and the staff. In Japan, karaoke also comes with a set of unspoken rules, so if you’re going with Japanese friends, it’s good to be aware of them in advance.
Additionally, there are legal and store policy-based restrictions for minors.
Basic Karaoke Etiquette
- Don’t be overly loud: Avoid shouting or making excessive noise that may disturb people in the hallway or in the next room
- Follow rules on bringing food and drinks: Unless the shop specifically allows outside food and drinks, be sure to order from their in-house menu.
- Keep the room clean and treat equipment with care: Be careful not to spill food or drinks, and handle the karaoke machines and microphones gently.
- Make sure to leave the room on time: Leave promptly when your time is up for the next users.
Unspoken Rules of Japanese Karaoke
- Don’t keep the mic or remote to yourself: When singing in a group, take turns choosing songs and singing.
- Listen to others' singing: Try not to get too absorbed in your phone or searching for your next song while someone else is singing!
- Don’t put your mouth directly on the mic: Since microphones are shared, use them hygienically so everyone can feel comfortable.
- Don’t steal someone else’s song: Singing along quietly is fine, but singing loudly over someone else can be disrespectful.
How Late Can Minors Stay? Is Student ID Required?
In many prefectures restrict nighttime entry for those under 18 due to youth protection ordinances. Generally, those under 16 (junior high school and below) without guardians can't enter after 18:00, and those under 18 (high school students, etc.) after 22:00. Rules vary by region and establishment, so check in advance.
You may be asked for ID like a student card for age verification, so have it ready.
Don't Miss Out! Karaoke Pricing Systems
Karaoke pricing plans vary by shop, time, and usage plan. Understanding the system before booking can help you get the best deal.
Regular Price/Member Price
Many karaoke chains offer both regular prices and member discounts. Even within the same chain, prices can differ by location. By signing up as a digital or card member, you may get discounts and accumulate points so frequent users should definitely consider joining.
One-Order System/All-You-Can-Drink
Some plans require each guest to order at least one food or drink item (one-order system), while others offer all-you-can-drink options for a set fee, covering soft drinks or even alcohol. Choose based on your group size, expected stay time, and how much you plan to drink.
Time Pack/Free Time
Time-based plans like 2-hour or 3-hour packs charge based on a fixed length of time. "Free time" plans allow unlimited use within a specific time window for a flat rate. Short visits are best with time packs, while longer karaoke sessions are more affordable with free time options.
* During busy periods, free time users may be asked to leave early, and some shops don’t allow free time for solo karaoke so please follow the shop's guidelines.
Not Sure Where to Go? Choose from here! Top 5 Most Popular Karaoke Chains in Japan
Japan has many karaoke chains, and services and facilities differ by store, so many people might be unsure where to go. Let's look at the "Top 5 Karaoke Chain Rankings" calculated by "UtaTen," one of Japan's largest lyrics search sites.
1st Place: Big Echo
A karaoke chain boasting one of the largest number of stores in Japan. All stores have free Wi-Fi and the latest harmony microphones. They also offer a wide selection of rooms, including party rooms and concept rooms.
2nd Place: Manekineko
Many of their stores allow you to bring your own food and drinks, and they have attractive, reasonable pricing. Many stores also operate from early morning.
3rd Place: Karaoke Room Utahiroba
Known for pricing that includes all-you-can-drink soft drinks. Some locations are open 24 hours, allowing use until morning if you miss the last train.
4th Place: Karaoke Kan
Offers a wide variety of private rooms, including party rooms for large groups, luxurious VIP rooms, and some stores equipped with facilities like darts.
5th Place: Cote D'Azur
Their main attraction is rooms designed for comfort. They also have an extensive food and drink menu, including wood-fired pizzas, pancakes and other sweets, and over 100 types of drinks.
* Reference: Introducing the popularity ranking of karaoke chain stores! Thorough comparison of prices and features
New Ways to Enjoy "Non-Singing Karaoke"
While karaoke is traditionally seen as "a place to sing endlessly," recently, "non-singing enjoyment" has spread, with people using karaoke rooms for various purposes beyond singing.
Instrument Practice
Karaoke rooms are equipped with soundproofing, making them ideal for practicing instruments without worrying about disturbing others. Some establishments even lend instruments and necessary peripherals, allowing you to drop by empty-handed after school or work.
Sports Viewing & Live Viewing
You can enjoy watching sports, live events, or movies using the large-screen monitors and powerful sound systems. It's perfect for gathering with friends and getting excited together.
Telework & Online Meetings
As private rooms allow for focused work, they are being used as spaces for telework and online meetings. Many establishments have Wi-Fi environments and offer rental equipment such as printers, headsets, and smartphone chargers, making them suitable for self-study and online lessons as well.
Karaoke is not just a place to relieve stress by singing, but also a convenient space to deepen communication with friends and serve various purposes, continually evolving with the times. Why not use this article as a reference to understand basic usage methods and etiquette, find a way to enjoy karaoke that suits you, and make the most of your karaoke experience?
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