Mixalive TOKYO
Mixalive TOKYO is a multi-purpose entertainment venue near Sunshine City that hosts a rotating calendar of live music, DJ events, anime-themed performances, and variety shows. The space includes a main hall with a capacity of about 500, a smaller stage for intimate shows, and a bar area that operates independently of the events. The programming is eclectic: one night might feature a rock band, the next an anime voice actor event, the next a DJ playing city pop and funk. Entry prices vary by event, typically 3,000-5,000 JPY, and many events include a drink ticket. The venue is modern, with good sound and lighting, and the facilities are clean. The crowd depends entirely on what's playing; anime events draw a younger, more casual audience, while music nights bring out a broader range. English signage is limited but the ticketing system is straightforward. The bar serves standard drinks at reasonable prices.
Where to stay near Mixalive TOKYO
Hotels and rentals within walking distance.
What to Expect
A modern event space with good production values. The experience depends entirely on the event; check the schedule. The bar is a comfortable spot even without attending a show.
Varies wildly by event, from energetic concert hall to intimate performance space.
Varies by event: rock, electronic, city pop, anime soundtracks
Depends on the event. Casual for most, cosplay-friendly for anime events.
Live music fans, anime enthusiasts, anyone interested in Japanese pop culture events
Credit cards accepted for advance tickets, cash at the door and bar
Price Range
Entry 3,000-5,000 JPY (varies by event, often includes 1 drink), beer 700 JPY, cocktails 900 JPY
Entry ~$20-33/~18-30 EUR, beer ~$4.50/~4 EUR
Hours
Varies by event, typically doors at 18:00 or 19:00, shows end by 22:00
Insider Tip
Check the event calendar online before visiting; there's no walk-in guarantee for popular shows. Tickets for anime-themed events sell out fast. The bar area sometimes stays open after the main show ends.
Full Review
Mixalive TOKYO sits in a modern building near Sunshine City, Ikebukuro's massive shopping and entertainment complex. The entrance is easy to find, with digital screens displaying the current event schedule. Inside, a lobby area includes merchandise tables and a bar counter.
I attended a live music event on a Saturday evening, a three-band lineup of Japanese indie rock acts. The main hall is a proper venue with tiered standing areas, professional sound, and a lighting rig that would be at home in a much larger space. The sound was balanced and clear, which is not something you can take for granted at mid-sized Tokyo venues.
The crowd was about 300 people, a mix of dedicated fans who knew every song and curious newcomers. The atmosphere was enthusiastic but orderly, very Japanese in its respectful energy. Between sets, people filed to the bar for drinks and chatted quietly.
The venue's versatility is its strength. Checking the monthly schedule revealed anime voice actor showcases, DJ nights, comedy events, and pop-up art exhibitions alongside the live music. Each event attracts its own audience, so two visits a week apart might feel like entirely different venues.
Entry for my event was 4,000 JPY with one drink included. Two additional beers brought the total to 5,400 JPY. The event ended at 22:00, leaving plenty of time to explore Ikebukuro's other bars afterward.
The Neighborhood
Mixalive TOKYO is near Sunshine City in Ikebukuro's East Exit area. The surrounding streets have restaurants, arcades, and anime merchandise shops. Host clubs and entertainment venues are also nearby.
Getting There
JR Ikebukuro Station East Exit, then a 7-minute walk toward Sunshine City along Sunshine 60 Street. The venue is in a building near the Sunshine City complex.
Address
3-1-4 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku
Other Venues in Ikebukuro
Somethin' Jazz Club
Underground jazz venue with two basement floors hosting live performances nightly. Entry runs about ¥2,200 and includes three drinks.
Bar LIBRE
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BAR Trash
Late-night standing bar on the west side of Ikebukuro station, open until 6 AM. Popular with locals looking for cheap drinks after the last train.
COLORSOL RESORT
Tropical-themed cocktail bar where a world-champion flair bartender puts on bottle-juggling and fire performances while mixing drinks. The interior is designed to feel like an island resort.
Rock Bar Oasis
Basement whisky bar stocking roughly 200 bottles, including rare Japanese malts like Ichiro's Malt. The soundtrack is classic American rock and pop from the '70s and '80s.
Bobby's Bar
Casual standing bar near the West Exit open until 5 AM. Highballs from 400 JPY and a rotating selection of simple bar snacks. Draws night owls who missed the last train.