Japan’s nightclub scene is attracting attention both at home and abroad for its unique culture and atmosphere. In particular, the unique Japanese dance styles of “hand-play” and “side-swinging” are a fresh and fascinating experience for foreign visitors to Japan. These styles are sometimes described as “reminiscent of religious rituals,” and require a deep understanding of Japanese club culture behind them.

The term “hand play” literally means playing with one’s hands, but in the club scene this is elevated to a kind of art form: a style in which one enjoys delicate movements with one’s hands and fingers in time with the DJ’s musical selections and the beat of the music. This is a uniquely Japanese approach to expressing the detailed beats and rhythms of the music with the body, and participants seek a deep sense of immersion, becoming one with the music.

@ittankieru 初アンモナ！#福岡県産 #サングラスネキ #ミナミ #アンモナ #bazaar #手遊び #クラブ #クラバー #クラバー女子 #ミナミキャバ嬢 #宗右衛門町 #ミナミホスト #キャッツ福岡 ♬ オリジナル楽曲 – サングラスネキ（福岡県産。） – 福岡県産。ネキ

On the other hand, “yoko-yobare” refers to a dance style in which the body is slowly swayed from side to side. This movement is often performed in groups, creating a sense of togetherness and reflecting Japan’s social nature, which emphasizes connection with those around you. While seemingly simple, these movements also serve as a form of communication within the club, fostering a deep bond between participants through shared experiences.

@shima0219 1週間でこんなに浸透するとは🤣 手遊びって知らん間にすぐ変わってるよね🙃 #名古屋 #栄 #ヒトデ #クラブ #手遊び #ひき肉 #ちょんまげ小僧 #イソギンチャク #おすすめ #おすすめのりたい #クラブのある生活 ♬ オリジナル楽曲 – しまじろう🐯 – しまじろう🐯🐩⸒⸒

The reason these dance styles are described as “religious” is because of the meditative element of each movement and the sense of connection to something greater that is created through a sense of group togetherness. In Japanese nightclubs, the dance floor becomes a kind of sanctuary where participants can escape from their daily routines, immerse themselves in the music, and release their ego.

@t.t_0204 はいせーので気持ちよくなってる人@taiyo_23 #bambi #モンスタークラブ #クラブ #anchor #朝まで行こうぜオンリーアンカー #g2 #g2大阪 #アンモナ #ammona #手遊び #手遊びガチ勢 #クラバー #クラバー #大阪 #ミナミ ♬ オリジナル楽曲 – たんじろう

For foreign visitors, these unique dance styles can be one of the highlights of a trip to Japan, especially the opportunity to experience a sense of group togetherness and a deeper connection to the music that is not found in their own culture. Visiting a Japanese nightclub is a great opportunity to not only enjoy the nightlife, but also to experience some of the deeper cultural elements of Japan.

@t.t_0204 宗教とかお遊戯って言われてるやつです。#bambi #モンスタークラブ #クラブ #g2 #g2大阪 #アンモナ #クラバー #手遊び #手遊びガチ勢 #大阪 #ミナミ #すき家トレーニング ♬ オリジナル楽曲 – たんじろう

When you visit Japan’s nightlife, be sure to take note of these unique dance styles. It will be a wonderful opportunity to deepen your understanding of the depth and diversity of Japanese club culture and the Japanese social nature of sharing something as a group.