#Japan #Tokyo #Cork Box #Tomita Hayato #Kanno Meiko

Cork Box: A New Exclusive Members-Only Bar

In a bid to cultivate connection among professionals aged 30 and above, the members-only bar 'Cork Box' is set to open locations in Azabu and Aoyama, with plans for expansion into the Nihonbashi area by spring next year. The first round of membership applications will commence on November 1, 2025, offering an exclusive opportunity to join this innovative venue curated by industry tastemakers.

Concept Behind Cork Box

Amid the ongoing trends of online business and reduced face-to-face interactions in the post-COVID-19 era, there’s a renewed focus on the importance of personal exchanges and networking. Cork Box aims to create a space where professionals of similar backgrounds can meet and establish relationships beyond their corporate boundaries. By leveraging a shared membership experience, Cork Box aspires to facilitate meaningful connections that optimize personal and professional growth.

Key Features of Cork Box

• - Affordable Luxury: Challenging the perception of exclusivity, Cork Box offers a membership for just ¥8,800 monthly, with a nominal entrance fee. The addresses of all venues are confidential, and no signage is present, rendering a unique status only accessible to members and their guests.

• - Membership Eligibility: Open exclusively to professionals above 30, the bar features a stringent membership vetting process. This ensures a high caliber of careers and a common understanding of contemporary trends among members, allowing for comfortable social interactions in a private setting.

• - Diverse Store Experiences: Each location boasts its own unique theme—Azabu serves wine, Aoyama focuses on whiskey, and a third location will center on sake. This concept allows members to choose venues that best suit their needs and preferences, with plans for further expansion in major business districts.

Membership Benefits

• - Access to All Locations: Upon joining, members can enjoy current and upcoming locations, selecting based on occasion or requirement. Each member is also permitted to bring up to three guests, fostering a convivial atmosphere.

• - Complimentary Drink Service: Members can enjoy a selected drink for free for one hour each day at any venue. If visiting multiple locations on the same day, the promotion applies to only one venue.

• - Transparent Pricing: Additional orders for drinks and food come with a clear pricing structure, allowing members to enjoy tailored recommendations from knowledgeable staff based on their preferences and budget.

• - Engaging, Experiential Events: Monthly events focus on building knowledge around wine and whiskey, featuring activities like wine-tasting games that emphasize hands-on experiences. The atmosphere is designed to be relaxed and inviting, ensuring that members leave with smiles and newfound insights.

Membership Applications

• - Application Period: From November 1 to December 31, 2025.
• - Membership Limit: Limited to 100 individuals.
• - Fees: Individual membership includes a one-time application fee of ¥77,000 and a monthly fee of ¥8,800, inclusive of tax. Corporate inquiries are welcome for tailored packages.

With an elite focus on engaging professionals through shared interests, Cork Box promises to be at the forefront of Japan’s social and networking scene.

Meet the Founders

Hayato Tomita

Director of Wine Me Inc.

Hailing from Numazu, Shizuoka, Hayato started his career at a local restaurant and honed his skills under the guidance of Michelin-starred chefs at 'Reflet de l’Art' in Tokyo. He later opened ‘Lol.’ in Kiyosumi Shirakawa and has gained a clientele that includes renowned figures like former Japanese football star Hidetoshi Nakata.

Meiko Kanno

CEO of Wine Me Inc.

After studying at Toyo University, Meiko spent time in Silicon Valley. Captivated by ceramics, she returned to Japan to master her craft in famed artisan towns before establishing herself in Sagamihara. Recently, she joined forces with Hayato Tomita to launch Wine Me Inc., focusing on an exclusive dining experience combined with AI-driven sommelier services.