What is a Darts Bar? An Introduction to the Fun and Exciting World of Darts Bars in Japan

What is a Darts Bar?

Hello everyone! I will guide to the wonderful world of darts bars in Japan. Today, I'll be explaining what a darts bar is and why it's such a fun and exciting place to visit.

In Japan, you can easily find a darts bar by searching online for "darts bar" followed by the name of your current location.

A Fun and Social Experience

A darts bar is a unique and entertaining bar concept where patrons can enjoy playing darts while socializing and sipping on delicious drinks. I recently visited one with my friends, and we had a blast!

The Game

The game is simple: you throw darts at a dartboard, aiming for the highest score. The excitement builds as you pull out the darts, hit the change button, and pass it on to the next player. The larger your group, the more fun it becomes! I highly recommend hosting a tournament-style event, as it adds a competitive edge to the evening.

I organized a tournament for my company's year-end party, and it was a huge success! We had around 30 people, ranging from darts enthusiasts to complete beginners, and everyone had a fantastic time. It was wonderful to see everyone laughing and enjoying themselves, and it made me think that this would be a great way to foster a positive work atmosphere.

The beauty of darts is that anyone can play, regardless of age, gender, or physical strength. Even if your dart doesn't stick to the board or bounces off, everyone can still share a smile, which is the most appealing aspect of the game.

While I believe that darts bars are most enjoyable with a large group, they can also cater to solo players who want to practice their skills and aim for professional-level play. Everyone has their own way of enjoying darts, and that's the beauty of it!

The Growing Popularity of Darts

Darts is becoming increasingly popular in Japan, and you can now find darts machines not only in dedicated darts bars but also in game centers, internet cafes, amusement bars, and pool bars.

However, if you're looking for the ultimate darts experience, I highly recommend visiting a specialized darts bar. I always choose darts bars, especially when I'm with my friend Masaru, who dreams of becoming a professional darts player. We often meet up for dinner, and more often than not, we end up at a darts bar for some friendly competition.

Different Types of Dart Machines

Now, let's delve into the different types of dart machines you can find at darts bars. Each machine offers a unique experience, enhancing the fun and excitement of the game.

Darts Live 3

• This is the latest model of the standard Darts Live machine.
• Features include an automatic CORK function to determine the playing order.
• It measures dart-throwing speed and has a beautifully lit dartboard.
• The dedicated app allows for detailed analysis of your throws.

VS Phoenix X

• While the dartboard itself doesn't light up, the surrounding visuals and sound effects are impressive.
• This machine enables online play with people worldwide.
• The dedicated app lets you save match results and access detailed data with a subscription.

GALAXY 3

• This American-made machine has a high global market share.
• It offers 16 game types, including original ones.
• Supports remote play, allowing you to connect and compete with players worldwide.

D1 (Dart One)

• This Japanese-made machine offers a total of 36 different games.
• Developed by Dart World, a company dedicated to promoting soft darts.

FIDODARTS

• The world's first machine to offer hard darts.
• Uses camera-based image recognition to calculate scores.

Understanding the Game of Darts

When people talk about "house darts" or "my darts," they refer to the different types of darts and dartboards used. I, too, have my own set of darts, a gift from a darts bar owner. Having your own set improves your grip and throwing technique.

Parts of a Dart

• A dart consists of four main parts: the tip, barrel, shaft, and flight.
• The tip (point) penetrates the dartboard.
• The barrel is the part you hold and is crucial to your grip.
• The shaft controls the weight, and the flight directs its trajectory.

Choosing the Right Parts

• When selecting a tip, consider options like LIP POINT, CROSS POINT, or unicorn tips. Always have spares as a beginner.
• The barrel comes in various shapes and materials, so choose one that suits your grip and weight preferences.
• Select the shaft material and length that align with your playing style.
• Choose a flight shape ("standard," "shaped," "slim," etc.) that complements your throwing technique.

Types of Games at a Darts Bar

Darts bars offer a range of games to cater to different skill levels:

Count Up

• Players start at "0" and accumulate points by throwing three darts per round.
• The player with the highest score after eight rounds wins.
• This is a simple and popular game, perfect for beginners.

01 GAME

• Variations include 301, 501, 701, etc.
• Players start with a set number and aim to reduce their score to "0" by throwing darts.
• It's tricky as you must avoid scoring higher than your remaining points ("BUST").

Standard Cricket

• Aim for numbers 20–15 on the dartboard; elsewhere doesn't earn points.
• Hitting the same area three times ("open") makes it your position, and you can score points.
• Hitting double or triple rings multiplies your score.

Playing Darts: The Basics

For beginners, mastering the fundamentals of holding and throwing darts is key:

How to Hold the Darts

• I recommend the "three-finger" grip for beginners, using the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
• Place the dart on your index finger, adjust for balance, then secure it with your thumb and middle finger.
• Always consider the center of gravity for the desired flight path.

How to Stand

• When throwing, ensure your throwing hand's foot is forward.
• Don't cross the throw line with your foot; follow the bar's rules.
• The "standard stance" is popular: front foot at a 45-degree angle, with 90% weight on the front foot.

Throwing Darts

• Throwing consists of setup, take-back, release, and follow-through.
• During setup, grip the darts and aim.
• For take-back, bend your elbow and pull the dart toward you, keeping arms and wrists relaxed.
• Release the dart by pushing it forward, like a paper airplane.
• Follow through by straightening your arm after throwing.

The Charms of a Darts Bar

Darts bars offer unique attractions:

• Skill Improvement: You can learn from professionals or knowledgeable regulars.
• Fun and Socializing: It's a blast, especially with other beginners.
• Affordable Prices: Many bars offer drinks, food, and darts at reasonable rates.
• Late-Night Availability: Most bars are open late, perfect for after-parties.
• Private Rentals: Great for company parties or birthday celebrations.
• Meeting New People: Darts bars attract a diverse crowd, making it easy to connect with others.

Conclusion

I hope this article inspires you to visit a darts bar or get your own darts set. Remember to call ahead for reservations and bring a group of friends to enhance the fun! Start with the basics, practice, and don't be afraid to ask for tips from more experienced players.