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Understanding Japanese Cast Nomination System (本指名)

November 12, 2025by LUXE Team
Understanding Japanese Cast Nomination System (本指名)

Understanding Japanese Cast Nomination System (本指名)

Many international guests ask us: "What is 本指名 (hon-shimei)?" This guide explains the Japanese cast nomination system in simple terms.


Three Nomination Types

No Nomination (Included - Free)

Multiple beautiful casts will visit your table and rotate throughout your session.

What to Expect:

  • 2-3 different casts rotate to your table during each 40-minute set
  • Each cast visits once and never returns to your table
  • Great for meeting different personalities and enjoying variety!

Price: Already included in your booking - no extra charge


Regular Nomination (本指名) — ¥4,000 per 40-minute set

Your nominated cast returns to your table multiple times during the session.

How It Works:

  • Your chosen cast will return to serve you multiple times
  • When she has other regular nominations, she'll temporarily leave to serve those customers
  • A "helper" cast fills in when your nominated cast is away
  • If no other nominations, she stays seated next to you the entire time

Price: +¥4,000 (including tax) per 40-minute set

Best For: Guests who have a favorite cast and want more time with her


Exclusive Nomination (独占指名) — From ¥108,000/40min

Ultimate VIP experience - your cast sits ONLY with you.

Complete Exclusivity:

  • Your nominated cast sits with you for the entire session
  • No leaving, no sharing with other customers
  • Full attention dedicated to you
  • VIP room required (included in price)

Price: Minimum ¥108,000/40min (tax & service included)

Includes:

  • VIP Set: ¥27,000
  • Nomination Fee: ¥13,500
  • Champagne: ¥67,500+

How It Works:

  • Starts from the next 40-min set after requesting
  • Example: 80 mins (2 sets) = ¥216,000 minimum

Note: 1 person karaoke = min ¥149,000/40min (VIP Set ×2 + Nomination ×2); 2+ persons = no extra karaoke charge


Comparison Table

FeatureNo NominationRegular NominationExclusive Nomination
PriceIncluded (free)+¥4,000 per setFrom ¥108,000/40min
Experience2-3 different castsYour cast returns multiple times<br/>(stays entire time if no other nominations)Your cast stays entire session
ExclusivityLowMediumHigh
Helper CastN/AYes (when she's away)No (never leaves)
SharingN/AShared with other customers<br/>(if no others, she stays with you)Only with you

Pricing Example

Example: First-Time Customer with Regular Nomination (2 sets)

  • First 40-minute set: ¥7,000 (first-time special offer)
  • Regular nomination fee: +¥4,000
  • Second 40-minute set: ¥13,000
  • Regular nomination fee: +¥4,000
  • Total: ¥28,000 (2 sets with regular nomination)

Important Notes:

  • First-time special offer: ¥7,000 for FIRST 40-minute set only
  • All additional sets: ¥13,000 per 40-minute set
  • Regular nomination: +¥4,000 per 40-minute set
  • All prices include tax

How Nomination Works

There are two ways to nominate a cast:

Option 1: Book Ahead ✅ Recommended

  • Select your preferred cast when making your reservation
  • Guarantees she will serve you
  • Best for popular casts - they may be fully booked

Why book ahead? If a cast is already nominated by another customer, she won't come to your table during rotation. You may not get the chance to meet her!

Option 2: Nominate During Your Visit

Standard Flow:

  1. Start with No Nomination (free rotation)
  2. Meet 2-3 different casts as they visit your table
  3. Found your favorite? Tell staff: "I'd like to nominate [cast name]"
  4. Staff confirms her availability
  5. ¥4,000 charge per 40-minute set is added to your bill

⚠️ Important Note: If the cast you want is already nominated by another customer, she won't visit your table during the free rotation.

💡 Pro Tip: If you already know which cast style is your favorite (from our website or previous visits), we recommend pre-nominating via booking system to guarantee you'll meet her!


Drink Culture: Show Your Appreciation

We strongly encourage buying 1-2 drinks per set for your casts and ordering champagne!

In Japanese hostess club culture, buying drinks for your cast is an essential part of the experience and shows genuine appreciation.

Why It Matters:

  • Buying drinks is how you show gratitude and appreciation
  • It's a core part of Japanese nightlife culture
  • Creates a better atmosphere and connection with casts
  • Note: There is no tipping culture in Japan - drinks are the way to say "thank you"!

Our Recommendation:

  • Per Set: Order 1-2 drinks for your cast during each 40-minute set
  • Special Occasions: Consider ordering champagne to celebrate!
  • Ask Your Cast: Feel free to ask what she would like to drink

Drink Options:

  • Soft drinks and cocktails
  • Wine and sake
  • Champagne for special celebrations
  • Ask staff for the drink menu and prices

This is not mandatory, but it's highly appreciated by our casts and enhances your overall experience at LUXE!


Have Questions?

Can't find what you're looking for? Our customer service team is here to help!

📱 Telegram: Contact us on Telegram 📧 Email: hello@luxe-shinjuku.jp 📅 Book Now: Make a Reservation

We look forward to welcoming you to LUXE Shinjuku!