Points

Points are a customer loyalty system widely adopted in Japan's nightlife industry. Patrons accumulate points through visits, nominations, or food and drink orders, which can later be used toward payments or exchanged for perks.

The system varies significantly by venue. Some issue physical point cards (paper or plastic), while an increasing number manage points digitally via apps or membership systems. The ways to use accumulated points are diverse: "discount type" where points are deducted directly from the next bill, "exchange type" where points can be swapped for drinks or nomination fees, and "rebate type" where a certain number of points triggers a cashback.

Key points to note: most points have an expiration date. Some venues also restrict which services or time slots points can be used for. When visiting a new venue, it is wise to check whether a points system exists and what the rules are.

Upscale establishments often do not offer points systems, operating on a cash-only basis. Conversely, chain venues and larger establishments actively use points to build customer loyalty.

Remember that points are a form of perk and do not hold the same value as cash. Transferring or reselling points is almost always prohibited.