“Experience the Ultimate Fusion: Crane Games Meet DJ Vibes in Tokyo’s Hottest Nightspot!”

A novel nightlife venue in Tokyo’s Shimbashi business district is adding a new twist to crane games, merging them with live DJ sessions and cyberpunk bar aesthetics to form a surreal experience.

The entryway to Grand Hammer, an entertainment venue in Tokyo’s Shimbashi area. (Kyodo)

Hama Club is among the attractions in the Grand Hammer entertainment venue, which launched in November and comprises nine floors of distinctive Japanese experiences, including live exhibitions by “ama” divers and performances by geishas.

Yoshinori Hamakura, the president of Hamakura Produce Inc., mentioned that the concept for the club emerged from the popularity of Shinjuku Kabuki Hall, a neon-inspired entertainment food court located beneath a Namco arcade in Kabukicho Tower of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district.

“Our partnership with Bandai Namco (Amusement Inc.) in Kabuki Yokocho resulted in a successful collaboration. This combination attracts a multitude of international guests who enjoy playing games and then heading downstairs for meals in a celebratory environment,” he explained.

Currently, Hamakura is attempting to replicate this success in Shimbashi, aspiring to transform its image from merely a drinking zone for middle-aged professionals to a destination appealing to younger and foreign crowds from nearby Ginza.

Hama Club, a DJ venue with crane machines, situated on the fifth level of Grand Hammer. (Kyodo)

“Shimbashi is devoid of shopping centers; however, we hope to establish a lively atmosphere akin to Golden Gai with small, genuine Japanese bars. This environment seems to attract international visitors,” Hamakura remarked, alluding to the well-known drinking district in Shinjuku.

Hama Club stands out as it combines gaming with late-night dining and live DJs, all of which necessitate distinct licenses in Japan.

Yoshinori Hamakura, president of Hamakura Produce Inc. (Kyodo)

Yoshinori Hamakura, president of Hamakura Produce Inc., observes a claw machine at Hama Club on December 23, 2024. (Kyodo)

Due to stringent Japanese regulations that forbid amusement facilities from operating late into the night, the majority of the 15 crane game machines in Hama Club are set to automatically deactivate post 1 a.m., allowing the venue to function as a bar.

“Since we are classified as a restaurant, we can turn off the machines while complying with regulations, allowing patrons to continue enjoying DJ sets,” stated Hamakura.

A DJ performs at Hama Club on December 23, 2024. (Kyodo)

The machines, which operate entirely cashlessly, charge 500 yen ($3.2) per play. While this may seem high compared to arcades where a play typically costs 100 yen or 200 yen, the setup offers better chances of winning.

Aside from the usual plush toys, figurines, and snacks found in claw machines, rewards at the club also include tabletop games for guests to enjoy while sipping drinks.

Crane game machines at Hama Club. (Kyodo)

Hamakura noted that international guests are particularly attracted to prizes featuring popular anime and pop culture characters, many of which are exclusive to crane games and produced on a custom basis.

One month after its launch, locals continue to constitute the bulk of the venue’s clientele, yet the company is actively developing marketing strategies and partnering with hotels to target inbound visitors.

“By showcasing Shimbashi’s allure, we aspire to cultivate an appreciation for the area while drawing in a new demographic,” Hamakura stated.

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