DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
2025.06.17
A DJ Bar in Ni-chome Devoted to Sound and Music
Nearest Station
"DJ Bar Bridge Shinjuku" is the second location of "DJ Bar Bridge Shibuya," which first opened in 2014. Thanks to long-standing relationships with DJs, veteran performers appear regularly at both Shibuya and Shinjuku. At the same time, Shinjuku boasts resident DJs unique to the area. Located in Ni-chome, a district known for its LGBTQ+ culture, the bar frequently hosts queer-themed parties, setting it apart from its Shibuya counterpart.
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"DJ Bar Bridge Shibuya" is a long-standing favorite where musically discerning adults gather for quality sound. Its second branch, "DJ Bar Bridge Shinjuku," opened in 2022 in a prime location just minutes from Shinjuku Station. As of 2025, it is entering its third year. Like the Shibuya venue, the Shinjuku branch was designed to be a comfortable "third place" where guests can relax and enjoy music.
Interestingly, the Shinjuku venue originally operated under a different name and concept by the same management company. However, shortly after opening, the pandemic forced the bar to suspend operations. Even after emergency restrictions were lifted, foot traffic remained low. To quickly revive the business, the space was rebranded as the second "Bridge" location, leveraging the established reputation of the original bar. With more than a decade of history behind its name, "Bridge" gradually gained support as a new social hub in Shinjuku.
During our visit, Hiroshi Kawanabe—a resident DJ at the Shibuya branch—was performing. A prolific artist, he is also known as a trackmaker, composer, producer, and remixer.
Upon entering, you’ll find the bar counter directly ahead and the DJ booth on the left.
At the back of the venue is a wall of vinyl. When the DJ is preparing before opening hours, guests can sometimes request tracks.
A view from the floor: sofa seating is available both in the far back and near the front, offering a relaxed vibe.
The brick walls and framed logo featuring a vinyl motif mirror the Shibuya branch’s aesthetic.
The homemade ginger ale Moscow Mule has been a fan favorite since the original Shibuya location. It’s served in their signature copper mugs.
A signature event of the Shinjuku branch is the "wOrld connection" party. This recurring event brings in internationally renowned DJs and has become a favorite among music enthusiasts. Past guests have included Danny Krivit from New York’s legendary "Body & Soul" party; Gilles Peterson, known for his performance at Japan’s "Rainbow Disco Club"; Antal, founder of Amsterdam-based label "Rush Hour"; Ibiza legend Jon Sa Trinxa; and Don Letts, a key figure in London’s punk scene with ties to The Clash and the Sex Pistols. Although held irregularly, the party takes place every one to two months and draws a steady crowd.
Danny Krivit has now played at DJ Bar Bridge Shinjuku three times
Don Letts—also active as a filmmaker—performed during his Japan tour in 2023 to mark the launch of his fashion project.
Flyers from past "wOrld connection" events line the stairwell that leads down to the basement entrance.
Alongside its lineup of international talent, a defining feature of the Shinjuku branch is its location in Ni-chome—Japan’s most well-known gay district. The bar often hosts nights led by resident DJs who are deeply familiar with queer culture. As part of "wOrld connection," it even welcomed members from London’s iconic queer party "Horse Meat Disco." The venue has also served as the site for anniversary events organized by local members-only gay bars. This natural synergy with queer culture gives the Shinjuku branch an identity distinct from the Shibuya original.
Currently, guests who pay the entrance fee at one venue can freely move between affiliated bars for the rest of the day. If entry fees differ between venues, the difference can simply be paid. Be sure to explore the Shinjuku location along with its sister bars: "DJ Bar & Lounge WREP," "DJ Bar Bridge Shibuya," and "ENTER SHIBUYA"—each with its own unique at
The information contained this article was correct as of 06/17/2025 (the time of publication)
