Visiting Japan but still want to climb?
It’s raining and you’ve got nothing to do — why not check out a bouldering gym?
Or maybe you’re curious about what Japanese climbing gyms are like?
Tokyo actually has the most climbing gyms in the world.
For all the climbing addicts out there, here are Tokyo’s must-visit bouldering gyms!
Contents
1.B-Pump Ogikubo (Ogikubo Station)
Access ★★★★☆
Difficulty ★★★★★
Foreign climbers ★★★☆☆
Overview
One of the most famous climbing gyms in Japan.
Many world-class competition climbers — Japanese and international — train here.
You might even spot a top athlete.
Type
Competition-style, line-set problems.
What to Expect
Known for its tough grading.
The gym has a competition wall, and elite climbers from around the world come to train here.
But it’s not only for pros —
Headsetter Tsukuru Hori (also a World Cup routesetter) creates comp-style problems that are not just “jumping around ” but highly technical and body-tension focused.
The slab wall is also especially exciting (and terrifying in the best way).
Getting There
・From Tokyo Station → Ogikubo: about 30 min (no transfers)
・From Shinjuku Station → Ogikubo: about 10min (no transfers)
・From JR Ogikubo Station → gym: 1 min walk
Opening Hours
Weekdays: 13:00–23:00
Weekends & Holidays: 10:00–21:00
English Support
Few English-speaking staff.
However, around 20–30% of climbers are foreigners, so you won’t feel alone.
2.B-Pump Tokyo Akihabara (Akihabara / Ochanomizu Station)
Access ★★★★★
Difficulty ★★★☆☆
Foreign climbers ★★★★★
Overview
A super central gym located near major Tokyo sightseeing areas.
Four floors of climbing, with problems suitable for all levels.
Many foreign climbers visit — great place to make friends. The gear shop is also excellent.
Type
Line-set problems. 4F has a spray wall.
What to Expect
From big volumes to balancy problems and long traverses, there’s something for everyone.
Grading is average and friendly for beginners through advanced climbers.
The 2nd-floor overhang is especially popular.
They also host “Bouldering Dojo” (session events) where everyone climbs together.
Crowded on weekday evenings and weekends.
Getting There
・Tokyo Station → Ochanomizu: 5 min (no transfers)
・Shinjuku Station → Ochanomizu: 10 min (no transfers)
・5 min walk from JR Ochanomizu (Akihabara is also an option)
Opening Hours
Weekdays: 12:00–23:00
Saturdays & Holidays: 11:00–21:00
Sundays: 10:00–21:00
English Support
Many staff speak excellent English.
On weekday afternoons, most customers are foreigners.
3.NOBOROCK Shibuya (Shibuya Station)
Access ★★★★☆
Difficulty ★☆☆☆☆
Foreign climbers ★★★★☆
Overview
Located right in Shibuya, the heart of youth culture and fashion.
Famous for its friendly, approachable problems.
A popular spot for students, beginners, and after-work climbers.
Type
Line-set problems.
What to Expect
Known for soft, beginner-friendly grading.
A bit simple in style, but great for new climbers or anyone who wants easy fun.
Great for beginners, but it might feel a bit easy for experts.
Getting There
・Tokyo Station → Shibuya: about 25 min (1 transfer)
・Shinjuku Station → Shibuya: 5 min (no transfer)
・5 min walk from Shibuya Station
Opening Hours
Weekdays: 10:00–23:00
Weekends & Holidays: 10:00–22:00
English Support
Many staff speak English.
On weekday afternoons, foreign climbers can sometimes outnumber Japanese climbers.
4. Volny (Kichijoji Station)
Access ★★★☆☆
Difficulty ★★★★★
Foreign climbers ★☆☆☆☆
Overview
A small, unique, and community-focused gym.
One of the rare gyms in Tokyo that’s still mainly “mabushi style (spray wall)” — walls completely covered with holds.
Type
Spray wall with some line-set problems.
What to Expect
The endless holds may look overwhelming, but both beginners and advanced climbers can enjoy it.
The problems often feel like real rock — perfect for outdoor lovers.
It can take time to remember your routes, but you get used to it.
Small gym with many regulars, giving it an old-school “session culture” vibe.
If you like intense, friendly sessions, this is the place.
Getting There
・Tokyo Station → Kichijoji: about 30 min (no transfer)
・Shinjuku Station → Kichijoji: about 15 min (no transfer)
・10 min walk from JR Kichijoji Station
Opening Hours
Tue–Fri: 15:00–21:00
Sat: 13:00–18:00
Sun & Holidays: 11:00–18:00
English Support
Not everyone here can speak English.
But everyone is kind and helpful!
5. Climbing Park Base Camp Iruma (Musashifujisawa)
Access ★☆☆☆☆
Difficulty ★★★☆☆
Foreign climbers ★★☆☆☆
Overview
Still want to lead climb while visiting Japan?
Then Base Camp Iruma is your best option. A huge gym with both lead and bouldering.
The shop section is also excellent — you can spend the entire day here.
Type
Lead climbing + bouldering (Line-set problems)
What to Expect
Lead walls include top-rope routes and even crack climbing.
Grades range from 5.8 to 5.14 with plenty of height — very satisfying.
The bouldering area includes slabs, dynos, and long problems.
Climbers of all ages visit, from kids to seniors.
Gets very busy on rainy weekends when outdoor climbers come indoors.
Getting There
・Tokyo Station → Musashifujisawa: 1 hr 10 min
・Shinjuku Station → Musashifujisawa: 1 hr
・20 min walk from Musashifujisawa Station
Opening Hours
Weekdays: 12:30–22:30
Saturdays: 10:00–21:00
Sundays & Holidays: 10:00–20:00
English Support
Few English-speaking staff and fewer foreign climbers compared to central Tokyo.
Conclusion
Tokyo has some of the best indoor gyms in the world.
Each gym has a different style, so try a few and find the one that matches your climbing vibe!
If you’re also interested in outdoor bouldering or climbing trips in Japan, check out the articles below:
