What is a konkafe? Differences from a maid cafe, and how to enjoy one

You may have heard the word "konkafe" without quite knowing how it differs from a maid cafe, or how to enjoy one. Here's a friendly explainer from the basics.

What is a konkafe?

Konkafe is short for "concept cafe" — a catch-all for hospitality cafes built around a specific theme or world. Each shop has its own concept, with the interior, costumes and service style all crafted to match. Guests step into that world and enjoy conversation and time with the cast.

How is it different from a maid cafe?

A maid cafe is the type of konkafe themed around maids. In other words, a maid cafe is one kind of konkafe. The broader "konkafe" umbrella includes maid, jirai-kei, ryosangata, anime, host-style and more.

Common genres

• Maid style: classic maid-uniform service. A staple, centered on Akihabara.
• Jirai-kei / ryosangata: Harajuku-inspired fashion; very popular in recent years.
• Anime & game: shops that recreate the world of a specific title or character.
• Girls'-bar style: conversation across the counter.

How to enjoy konkafe

If it's your first time, visit a shop that catches your eye and find an atmosphere — and a cast member — you like. Once you have a favorite, you can go see them on their shift days and take cheki photos, enjoying "oshi-katsu" (supporting your favorite).

Stay connected with your favorite cast on MaidLink

MaidLink is a social platform for konkafe cast. Follow the cast you like and you'll be first to see new posts and upcoming shifts. Stay connected with the oshi you met at the shop, before and after every visit — that's MaidLink.