Society

Shibuya Bar Owner Arrested Over VIP Bikini Bathtub Course

TOKYO, May 02 (News On Japan) - A man operating a bar in Shibuya, Tokyo, was arrested on April 29th for allegedly providing unlicensed entertainment services involving women in swimsuits bathing in front of customers.

The establishment, dimly lit with purple lighting and featuring a jet-equipped bathtub, is suspected of allowing female staff to sit beside male patrons and serve alcohol without permission, around 10 p.m. on April 29th.

The bar began operating around July 2020 and has reportedly generated more than 100 million yen in revenue. Among its offerings was a "VIP course" priced at 13,000 yen for 60 minutes, allowing customers to eat and drink while watching women bathe in swimsuits. Some customers are said to have spent as much as 300,000 yen in a single day.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police had conducted two inspections between 2024 and 2025, issuing warnings about unauthorized hostess-style services, but no improvements were made.

The suspect has denied the charges, telling investigators, "I believe I was running a legitimate business and cannot accept the arrest."

Source: FNN

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