The Shibari “Scene”
The shibari scene involves, at least, two people: the rope top or rigger, who is the dominant person performing the tying, and the rope bottom, the submissive tied person. Of course, these partners can always change the roles to make things even. Within this discipline, there is sometimes an audience attending. In contrast, sometimes the session is totally private. Regardless, these two options are what we term a “scene.”
Shibari Scene: (Non)romantic Partners
Shibari means different things to different people. For some, it describes and art. For others, it is just a performance. Some people see it of a way to build intimacy and trust with their partners. And for others it means a form of relaxation or stress relief.
Although Shibari is very erotic and sexy, it does not always end up in sex. There are live performances and plays where actors practice shibari as an art—they are professionals working together. However, you can also practice this kinbaku or rope bondage with a romantic partners. Another option is option is to practice it between a dominant and his/her client.
Where to Find this Scene?
In Japan, you can find places like workshops, fetish bars, clubs, and other services for people who are into shibari. However, not everyone thinks it is “normal.” Currently, although it is a shame, it is still actually a very underground practice.
Some of the places where you practice, learn, or enjoy this discipline, tend to be very expensive. This is particularly true for men: it is as a safety measure to protect tied women. As you can imagine, this can be a delicate matter. For this reason, keeping it strict is a good way to ensure only serious practitioners or voyeurs to show up. In short, the high entry fees of these places make them a secure and safe place for BDSM. Some of these places do not even allow alcohol most of the times. In contrast, you can also find scenes hosted at a bar or lounge.
Shibari Scene: a Final Remark
Since rope bondage has a potential risk, there are tons of safety measures in the workshops, bars, and Clubs. One of the most important is that they only allow experienced practitioners to enter in the shibari scene.
Photograph: Bernie Ng/Substation – Luke George and Daniel Kok performing
