As a devoted EXO-L, I couldn’t contain my excitement when I heard about the EXO Japan tour hitting Tokyo. The prospect of seeing my favorite K-pop idols perform live in one of the world’s most electrifying cities was a dream come true. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience and insider tips to help you plan the ultimate EXO Japan tour adventure. From concert venues to fan hotspots, get ready to immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of EXO in Tokyo!
1. Planning Your EXO Japan Tour: When and Where
When I started planning my EXO Japan tour, I quickly realized that timing is everything. Typically, EXO announces their Japanese tours a few months in advance, so it’s crucial to stay updated through their official channels. I found that tours often coincide with album releases or special events, usually occurring in spring or fall.
As for the where, Tokyo is undoubtedly the heart of EXO’s Japan tours. The city offers multiple world-class venues that can accommodate the group’s spectacular performances. However, don’t be surprised if the tour extends to other major cities like Osaka or Fukuoka.
To ensure I didn’t miss out, I set up alerts on EXO’s official Japanese website and followed their social media accounts religiously. Additionally, I recommend joining EXO-L fan clubs as they often get early access to tour information and sometimes even pre-sale tickets. Remember, flexibility in your travel dates is key to catching this unforgettable K-pop experience in Japan!
2. Securing Tickets for the EXO Japan Tour Concert
Securing tickets for the EXO Japan tour concert can be a challenging but rewarding experience. As an international fan, I found that the process requires careful planning and quick action. First and foremost, it’s crucial to stay updated with official announcements from EXO’s Japanese website and social media channels.
Once the ticket sale dates are announced, mark your calendar and set multiple alarms. Keep in mind that tickets often go on sale at midnight Japan Standard Time (JST), so be prepared for some late nights or early mornings depending on your time zone. I recommend using a ticket proxy service if you’re not in Japan, as many local ticketing websites require a Japanese phone number or address.
Pro-tip: Join EXO’s official Japanese fan club for better chances at scoring tickets during pre-sale periods.
Lastly, don’t get discouraged if you don’t succeed on your first attempt. Sometimes, additional tickets are released closer to the concert date, so keep checking regularly. With persistence and a bit of luck, you’ll be on your way to experiencing EXO’s electrifying performance in Tokyo!
3. Top Venues for EXO Performances in Tokyo
During my EXO Japan tour experience, I discovered that Tokyo boasts some of the most incredible venues for K-pop performances. Tokyo Dome, undoubtedly, stands out as the crown jewel. This massive stadium, with its capacity to hold over 55,000 fans, creates an electrifying atmosphere that’s perfect for EXO’s high-energy shows.
Another fantastic venue I encountered was the Saitama Super Arena. Although it’s technically just outside Tokyo, it’s easily accessible and offers a more intimate setting compared to Tokyo Dome. Moreover, the Makuhari Messe in Chiba is a versatile space that I found particularly impressive for its state-of-the-art facilities.
For smaller, more exclusive events, keep an eye out for performances at Zepp Tokyo or Yoyogi National Gymnasium. These venues offer a closer, more personal experience with EXO that I found absolutely thrilling. Remember, each venue has its unique charm, so try to experience different ones if possible!
4. EXO-L Meetup Spots During the Japan Tour
During my EXO Japan tour, I discovered several amazing spots where EXO-Ls gather to share their excitement and meet fellow fans. One of the most popular meetup locations is the Hachiko Statue in Shibuya. This iconic meeting point is not only easy to find but also surrounded by vibrant energy that matches the EXO fandom spirit.
Another fantastic spot I stumbled upon is Hongdae Style in Harajuku. This K-pop-themed café is a haven for EXO-Ls, offering a perfect backdrop for fan meetings and impromptu dance covers. Additionally, the Tokyo Dome City area is buzzing with fans before and after concerts, making it an ideal place to connect with other EXO-Ls.
Pro-tip: Join local EXO fan groups on social media platforms to stay updated on impromptu meetups and events during the tour!
Lastly, don’t miss out on the K-pop Square in Shin-Okubo, Tokyo’s Koreatown. Here, I found myself surrounded by fellow fans, sharing stories and trading photocards in a truly immersive K-pop atmosphere.
5. Must-Visit K-pop Shops for EXO Merchandise
As an EXO-L, I couldn’t resist the urge to stock up on official merchandise during my Japan tour. Fortunately, Tokyo is a treasure trove for K-pop enthusiasts. One of my favorite spots was Tower Records in Shibuya, where I found an impressive collection of EXO albums, posters, and exclusive Japanese releases.
Another must-visit location is Harajuku’s Kpop Idol Shop. Here, I discovered a wide array of EXO goods, from lightsticks to photo cards. Moreover, this shop often hosts special events and pop-up stores during tours, making it a hub for fellow fans.
For a more immersive experience, I highly recommend checking out K-STAGE O in Shin-Okubo, Tokyo’s Koreatown. This multi-story complex is dedicated to K-pop merchandise, and I spent hours browsing their extensive EXO collection. Remember to bring cash, as some smaller shops may not accept credit cards.
Pro-tip: Keep an eye out for limited edition tour merchandise at the concert venues. These unique items are perfect souvenirs to commemorate your EXO Japan tour experience!
6. Exploring Tokyo’s EXO-Inspired Cafes and Restaurants
During my EXO Japan tour, I discovered that Tokyo is a treasure trove of K-pop-inspired eateries. One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the city’s EXO-themed cafes and restaurants. These unique establishments not only satisfied my taste buds but also fed my fandom love!
First and foremost, I visited the popular “EXO Planet Cafe” in Harajuku. Here, I indulged in EXO-inspired desserts and drinks, each adorned with the members’ faces or logos. The cafe’s interior, decorated with EXO memorabilia and playing their music, truly made me feel like I was in K-pop heaven.
Another must-visit spot is the “Galaxy Diner” in Shibuya, which features menu items named after EXO’s hit songs. I particularly enjoyed the “Monster Burger” and “Ko Ko Bop Bubble Tea”. Moreover, these themed eateries often host special events during EXO’s tours, making them perfect meeting spots for fellow EXO-Ls.
Pro-tip: Visit these cafes early in the day to avoid long queues and secure limited-edition merchandise!
7. Photo-op Locations for EXO Japan Tour Memories
During my EXO Japan tour adventure, I discovered some fantastic photo-op locations that perfectly captured the excitement of the experience. Shibuya Crossing, with its bustling energy, offered an iconic Tokyo backdrop for showcasing my EXO concert outfit. Meanwhile, the serene Meiji Shrine provided a beautiful contrast, allowing me to reflect on the cultural fusion of K-pop in Japan.
For a touch of modernity, I headed to the Tokyo Tower. Not only did it offer breathtaking city views, but its illuminated structure at night reminded me of EXO’s electrifying stage presence. Additionally, the colorful streets of Harajuku served as the perfect setting for capturing the vibrant essence of EXO’s music.
Pro-tip: Visit these locations during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and get the best shots!
Lastly, don’t forget to snap a picture at your concert venue. These photos will undoubtedly become cherished mementos of your unforgettable EXO Japan tour experience.
8. Navigating Tokyo’s Public Transport for the EXO Tour
When I embarked on my EXO Japan tour adventure, I quickly realized that mastering Tokyo’s public transport was crucial. Fortunately, the city boasts an efficient and extensive network that made getting to concert venues and fan meetups a breeze.
First and foremost, I highly recommend purchasing a Pasmo or Suica card. These rechargeable smart cards are your key to seamless travel on trains, subways, and buses. Not only do they save time, but they also offer slight discounts compared to buying individual tickets.
The Tokyo Metro and JR Lines are your best friends during the EXO tour. I found the Yamanote Line particularly useful as it circles central Tokyo, connecting many major stations and venues. Moreover, don’t be intimidated by the seemingly complex subway map; stations are well-marked in English, and there are always helpful staff around to assist.
Pro-tip: Download a reliable transport app like ‘Hyperdia’ or ‘Google Maps’ to plan your routes in advance. These apps provide real-time updates and can be lifesavers when navigating Tokyo’s bustling stations.
9. Cultural Etiquette for EXO-Ls in Japan
As an EXO-L visiting japan, I quickly learned that respecting local customs is crucial for a positive experience. First and foremost, it’s important to remember that Japan values quietness in public spaces. While it’s tempting to burst into EXO songs on the street, I found it’s best to contain my excitement until I reached designated fan areas.
Additionally, I discovered that queueing is taken very seriously in Japan. When lining up for concerts or merchandise, it’s essential to maintain order and avoid cutting in line. Moreover, I made sure to be mindful of my volume when discussing EXO in public places, especially on trains where silence is golden.
Pro tip: Learn a few basic Japanese phrases. Saying “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you very much) to staff and locals goes a long way in showing respect and appreciation.
Lastly, I learned to be careful about taking photos of people without permission, even if they’re cosplaying as EXO members. By following these etiquette guidelines, I ensured a harmonious and enjoyable EXO Japan tour experience for everyone involved.
10. Making the Most of Your EXO Japan Tour Experience
As I wrapped up my EXO Japan tour, I realized that making the most of this incredible experience goes beyond just attending the concert. First and foremost, immerse yourself in the fan culture. I found that participating in fan projects and group activities added an extra layer of excitement to the tour.
Additionally, don’t forget to explore Tokyo itself. In between EXO-related activities, I made time to visit iconic landmarks and try local cuisine. This balance allowed me to fully appreciate both the K-pop experience and Japanese culture.
Pro-tip: Create a flexible itinerary that allows for spontaneous adventures. Some of my best memories came from unexpected encounters with fellow EXO-Ls!
Lastly, document your journey. I took plenty of photos and kept a travel journal to preserve the magical moments. These mementos now serve as cherished reminders of my unforgettable EXO Japan tour experience.
