The Biggest Host Club in Tokyo Is Shutting Down

The most successful host club in Tokyo, known simply as “The Club,” has announced that it will be closing down this week. Of course, the most successful club is owned and operated by the most successful host, Roland. Often called “The king of hosts,” Roland’s club has the highest sales record in a single day, a month, and a year. However, even with its apparent success, owner Roland has decided to shut down the club.

In Tokyo, host clubs are some of the biggest industries for nightlife in the country. Big drinks, big hair, and, most importantly, big money. Depending on the popularity of a single host and the day, one person can make over $10,000 a night. However, the life of a typical host in Japan is, if anything, inconsistent. The primary source for hosts and host clubs depends on their clientele and the huge purchases while in the clubs. With the coronavirus and social distancing looking to stay around for the long-term, the industry built on intimacy is starting to see cracks.

The king of hosts gave a statement on his Instagram announcing that his decision to close the club was based on “the safety and well-being of the employees and clients.”

While “The Club” is closed for the unforeseeable future, Roland plans on keeping ties with his club. He will continue to pay rent for the now-empty building in the hopes that he and his hosts can one day come back and reopen after “the world has calmed down a bit.” As for the many hosts who have since been displaced, there is some assistance on the way.

For those infected with the Coronavirus, the Shinjuku ward office is planning on handing out another 100,000 yen. This supplement is to support the many workers, including many hosts and other night-life workers, who are unable to make an income while being infected.