What's New?

Last night, a customer and I were talking about the current record boom in Japan, and we wondered if there were any legal issues with the many record stores and DJ events popping up outside of clubs.

So, I did a little research.

1. (DJ Bar)

Designated Entertainment Establishments

If DJ events are the main focus, or if the venue functions as a dance floor at night, a Designated Entertainment Establishment permit is required.
Target businesses: Businesses that offer alcohol and provide dancing, DJing, lighting effects, live performances, etc., after midnight.
Definition of “entertainment”: Acts of “hospitality” other than dining, such as having customers dance, or entertaining them with band performances, DJing, or lighting effects.
Required hours: 0:00 AM to 6:00 AM.
Necessity of permit: Required if “entertainment” is provided during these hours (a simple bar or bartender performance may not require it, but the installation of a DJ booth may).

2. (Record Bar)

Notification of Operation of Restaurant Serving Alcohol Late at Night
Only notification is required.

(Required for all establishments serving alcohol late at night, not just record bars)

If records are simply played as background music (for seated listening)

Summary
DJ bars require a Designated Entertainment Establishment permit.
Record bars require notification of operation of a restaurant serving alcohol late at night.

Since they are divided into two categories, one of these notifications is required.

Not limited to Susukino, according to the revised Entertainment Business Act enforced on June 28, 2025:
1)
Operating without submitting a notification of commencement of operation of a restaurant serving alcohol late at night carries the risk of a fine of up to 500,000 yen (criminal penalty) for violating the Entertainment Business Act. In severe cases, there is also the possibility of a business suspension of up to 6 months, or even revocation of the business permit in the worst case.
2)
Operating a Designated Entertainment Establishment (an establishment that provides alcohol while showing dances or shows after midnight) without a permit is subject to very severe penalties under Article 49, Paragraph 1, Item 1 of the Entertainment Business Act: “imprisonment for up to 2 years or a fine of up to 2 million yen, or both.”

It seems that the purpose of these legal notifications is to ensure that customers can enjoy themselves in a safe and secure environment, and to facilitate a smooth response in the event of an emergency.
By the way, Bar Modelo has already notified the Hokkaido Prefectural Police of its operation as a restaurant serving alcohol late at night.