First Ever Raid on Illegal Kabukicho Brothel: Surprising Popularity Among Foreign Tourists

They would accept any customer

Mr. J, who has been working as a street tout in Kabukicho for years, explains,“The Black touts commonly seen in Kabukicho were introducing this place to foreign customers.

SPARAKU used to be a place where customers couldn’t enter unless they were brought in by an external tout like us. Even now, most customers come through introductions, and I’ve rarely seen anyone walk in directly.

As inbound tourism boosted Kabukicho’s nightlife, Black touts started bringing in more foreign customers. SPARAKU became well-known in Kabukicho as a place that ‘accepts any customer and offers full service.’”

Many Japanese adult entertainment establishments prohibit foreign customers, making it difficult for them to find places where they can interact with young Japanese women.

“The long operating hours were also a big advantage. Soaplands usually close by midnight, but SPARAKU was open from 6 PM to 6 AM, making it accessible almost anytime at night. That made it easier for touts to guide customers there. Unlike cabarets or girls’ bars, many adult entertainment spots prohibit entry to drunk customers, but SPARAKU had more relaxed rules and allowed intoxicated patrons,” J adds.

Besides its long hours and relaxed rules, there were additional reasons why touts funneled so many foreign customers into this establishment.