LGBTQ+ Friendly cafes and hotels in Osaka

Last year, Osaka hosted the IGLTA Global Convention, the world's largest LGBTQ+ travel event and the first of its kind in Asia (IGLTA is an association that aims to promote LGBTQ+ tourism). It is expected that this event will attract even more LGBTQ+ people to Osaka than ever before.
Osaka is also known as a "city of kindness," a warm-hearted, fun-loving city. There is a large LGBTQ+ community, and it is a safe and welcoming environment. This time, we will introduce shops and hotels that actively welcome LGBTQ+ people.
■"Cafe LA" is an LGBTQ+ friendly spot that has gained huge popularity through reviews.

▲There are staff who can speak English and Spanish, including the owner (on the right).

"Cafe LA" began because the owner felt that while there were bars in Osaka that LGBTQ+ people could enjoy, there were few establishments that didn't serve alcohol or were easy for first-time visitors to enter. Currently, approximately 90% of customers are visitors to Japan, including LGBTQ+ people. It has become a community space where people can exchange information about sightseeing in Osaka and hold events in English, and has received high praise on social media.

・The recommendation is the "Black Sesame Latte," which even those with low caffeine tolerance can enjoy. 600 yen (tax included, same below)

The owner of the shop loves coffee and is particular about the taste of his coffee, but they also have drinks for those who are sensitive to caffeine, vegans, and children. The recommended black sesame latte is creamier and easier to drink hot, and it also comes in a matcha flavor.

▲The shop is located in the heart of Namba, Osaka.

■"BAR DILEMMA" provides a "comfortable place" for everyone, regardless of LGBTQ+ or nationality.

▲The owner (left) and staff are studying English hard so they can enjoy conversation with guests visiting Japan.

　This shop is a place where everyone, including LGBTQ+ people, can feel like they've come to visit our home and have fun together. Karaoke is especially popular, and when Japanese city pop music is played, everyone can have fun even if they don't speak the same language.

・We recommend the tequila, which will get you drunk and encourage you to have fun, but of course you can order any drink you like.

▲The drinks are served in shot glasses from around the world that customers bring with them.

There is no menu list of alcoholic beverages, and you can enjoy the drinks you want to drink at reasonable prices. If you cannot find something you want in the store, you can order it immediately from the liquor store and they will search the Internet for suggestions on how to drink it well, which is such a kind service.

▲The walls are filled with the thoughts and feelings of customers from all over the world.

■Swissôtel Nankai Osaka, the main venue for the IGLTA Global Convention, actively promotes LGBTQ+

▲Image source: Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

　Swissôtel Nankai Osaka is the first IGLTA certified hotel in Asia and is also certified as an LGBTQ+ friendly hotel by the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau.

・“All ” are　Welcome　Here

▲Image source: Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

　When visitors to Japan arrive, they will see the word "Welcome" written in 14 languages ​​and a rainbow flag, the symbol of LGBTQ+. Additionally, in front of the elevator is a sign displaying the hotel's passion, "Peace of Mind." This conveys the message that the hotel wants to be a place where everyone can feel at ease and relax.

・An energetic "Drag Queen Show"

The Faerie Drag Queen Show is held every month at Nambar10 on the 10th floor (admission is free). Queens from all over Japan will be performing energetically. You can also enjoy original cocktails inspired by the drag queens who will be performing. Why not dance with the queens and have the most fun?

▲Very friendly head bartender of Nambar10 is pictured. Image source: Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

■LGBTQ+ Weddings

▲Image source: Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
　All staff members have undergone LGBTQ+ training and seminars, and our experienced wedding experts will conduct your wedding ceremony according to your needs. Wedding venues can be booked as semi-private or fully-private for your guests' peace of mind.

■Editor's Note
　In Japan, where LGBTQ+ support is slow, the IGLTA Global Convention was held in Osaka last year, and the city was able to spread the word that it is an LGBTQ+ friendly city. However, the reality is that there are still very few establishments that openly declare themselves to be LGBTQ+ friendly. I strongly feel that small changes can lead to big changes, and that it is important to take concrete action. I hope that this article will be a step in that direction.

■Location of each facility and shop
　　・Cafe LA
　　　　Nishii Building B1F, 2-3-7 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
　　・BAR DILEMMA
　　　　Glass Building 3F, 2-3-10 Higashi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka
・Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
　　　　5-1-60 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka
　　※For detailed information about the hotels and restaurants, please check their respective websites and Instagram accounts.