Walk into any host club in Kabukicho, and within minutes you will likely hear the word "hime" (姫 / princess). Being called "hime" is one of the defining experiences of host club culture — but what does it really mean?

What Is Hime Culture?

Hime (姫) literally means "princess." In host clubs, it is a term of endearment that hosts use for their female customers. You will hear it constantly: "Hime, what would you like to drink?" "Hime, you look beautiful tonight."

This is not romantic flattery in the Western sense. It is a professional honorific — part of the service. Just as a hotel concierge might call you "sir" or "madam," a host calls you "hime" as part of creating a fantasy experience where you are treated like royalty.

Hime Mic (姫マイク / Hime Maiku)

One of the most unique aspects of hime culture is the "hime mic" (姫マイク). At certain points during the evening — typically when a customer orders champagne or during special celebrations — a host will hand you a microphone and invite you to speak to the room.

This can be intimidating for first-time visitors, but it is meant to be a moment of honor. What do you say? Anything simple works:

• "今日はありがとうございます" (Thank you for today)
• "〇〇くんが大好きです" (I love [host's name])
• "みなさん、盛り上がっていきましょう！" (Everyone, let's get excited!)

The crowd will cheer regardless of what you say. It is a celebration, not a speech contest.

How to Be a Beloved Hime Customer

Being called "hime" does not require princess-like behavior. In fact, the most beloved customers at host clubs are those who are gracious, respectful, and fun.

Do's for a Beloved Hime

• Be polite from the moment you enter. A warm "konbanwa" and a smile set the tone. Hosts talk to each other about customers — first impressions matter.
• Respect the host's boundaries. Professional hosts are not your boyfriend. Flirting within reason is part of the game, but demanding exclusivity or personal time outside the club is a fast track to becoming the opposite of a beloved princess.
• Be punctual. Showing up on time for your reservation shows respect for your host's schedule. Hosts juggle multiple customers in a night.
• Communicate your budget clearly. "今日は予算〇〇円です" (My budget today is ¥XX). This is seen as responsible, not cheap.
• Bring small gifts. A ¥500 snack from the convenience store, a souvenir from a trip — these gestures are remembered far more than the monetary value.
• Say thank you when you leave. "今日はありがとうございました" (Thank you for today) with a small bow leaves an excellent impression.

Don'ts for a Hime Customer

• Don't be demanding. Calling a host repeatedly when they are with another customer, demanding constant attention, or complaining about wait times — this is considered childish, not princess-like.
• Don't get overly drunk. A princess who can't walk straight is not a good look. Know your limits.
• Don't compare hosts negatively. When a new host rotates to your table, never say you preferred the previous one. Be gracious to everyone.
• Don't expect romance outside the club. The "hime" treatment is a paid service. Confusing professional charm with genuine romantic interest is the most common mistake new customers make.

The Balance: Royal Treatment vs. Being a Good Customer

The beauty of hime culture is the balance it strikes. You are treated like royalty — your glass is always full, you are complimented, your presence is celebrated. But this treatment is earned through being a good customer in return.

Think of it like a dance: the host leads with flattery and attention, and you respond with warmth, appreciation, and respect for the boundaries of the professional relationship. When both partners dance well, the result is a genuinely enjoyable experience.

For more on customer types and expectations, read our customer types guide.