Upper Age Limits Introduced in Clubs of South Korea and Japan 0 10

Therefore, it is not surprising that a Tokyo pub made headlines by introducing a "soft ban" for elderly visitors.

The chain claims that it only wants the preferences of guests to match the lively atmosphere of the establishment; however, the decision has sparked controversy.

Tokyo Pub Denies Entry to Elderly Visitors

Izakaya Tori Yaro Dogenzaka (an inexpensive Japanese pub) is located in Tokyo's Shibuya district.

At the beginning of 2026, a sign was hung at the entrance: "Entry only for visitors aged 29 to 39. This izakaya is for younger generations. The pub is only for those under 40."

The pub is part of a chain, but it seems that only the branch in Shibuya has explicitly stated its age policy.

There are also caveats, albeit written in tiny font. Elderly visitors are allowed if at least one person in the group is 39 years old or younger.

Friends and relatives of employees, as well as business partners of the restaurant, are exempt from the age restriction.

Moreover, since such a measure cannot be enforced legally, people over 40 can demand to be let in.

According to Japan Today, it is allegedly checked at the entrance whether the visitor is in a "proper condition" (it is unclear whether this refers to clothing or level of intoxication) and whether they are satisfied with the atmosphere of the establishment.

"Elderly Visitors Often Complain"

According to them, the upper age limit is intended to ensure that the preferences of guests align with the pub's atmosphere.

The chain is known for its affordable prices, understated decor, and lively atmosphere; all of which are aimed at a younger audience.

"Overall, our audience consists of young people," said the chain's public relations representative Toshihiro Nagano to Japan Today.

"Elderly visitors often complain that the restaurant is too noisy and so on, so we decided to limit entry so that everyone leaves with a positive impression."

This step has been labeled "discriminatory" by some in the chain, and one commentator noted: "There is a difference between biological and psychological age."

"Elderly-Free Zones" in South Korea

The practice of restricting entry in favor of younger visitors is already common in neighboring South Korea.

In Hongdae, a student district in Seoul, many clubs and bars with dance floors unofficially set an upper age limit for patrons over 30; in some, it drops to 28 or even 25.

Elderly visitors are also denied entry in some establishments in Itaewon and Gangnam.

According to The Korea Times, many sports facilities and coffee shops have introduced "elderly-free zones," citing the incompatibility of elderly visitors with their atmosphere.

Typically, such restrictions apply to people over 70.