Everyone knows karaoke.  Literally meaning "empty orchestra," karaoke has become so popular that it's spread all throughout the world. In Japan, it's become as rooted in daily life as going to the movies or the mall has in America. Evolving with the technology, karaoke in Japan comes complete with videos to watch along with lyrics, special effects, and sometimes the occasional disco ball or two. Whether singing at home or at a special room somewhere downtown, everyone from teens to business men use karaoke as a popular form of entertainment and a way of easily getting together.

Since the price of seeing a movie is high and shopping at a mall not always an option, teens like to use karaoke rooms to hang out. Whether dancing and singing to the latest JPOP hit or to an import from America, even the shyest person can let loose and have fun. Often in large groups, girls and guys can sing together, or form pairs, or have competitions. Accessibility is high as karaoke clubs are everywhere and as many families own home versions, and teens use this to their advantage in a country where the driving age is 20.

Surprisingly, karaoke is an essential part of doing business in Japan. Going to a karaoke club after work with coworkers is a standard procedure throughout all of Japan. As Charles Danziger puts it,

"After a few drinks, each person takes a turn crooning into the mike, thus experiencing a uniquely Japanese form of off-key bonding. This routine is so widespread that books on corporate etiquette counsel young salarymen to practice their singing, and nightschools throughout the land are available to train the timid."*

Exactly why karaoke has become such an enrooted part of Japanese culture may never be understood. It's enough to say, however, that as a form of entertainment karaoke is at the top of the list and forms yet another facet of Japan to be experienced.

* The American Who Couldn’t Say Noh, by Charles Danziger

Copyright 1993 by Charles Dangizer

Published by Kodansha International Ltd., 17-14 Otowa

I-chome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokiyo 112, and Kondasha America, Inc.