Hibiki Bar and Karaoke celebrates grand opening by Bing’s Nomiya owners

The creators of Bing’s Nomiya have opened Mackay’s first private karaoke rooms and whiskey bar, bringing one of Asia’s favourite pastimes to regional Queensland.

Hibiki Karaoke and Whiskey Bar opening on February 17, 2023. Photo: Zoe Devenport

It’s a favourite night out for millions, but now Mackay’s first dedicated karaoke bar has brought Asia’s love for song to regional Queensland.

Hibiki Bar and Karaoke on Gregory St had its grand opening, welcoming everyone to the new venture developed by the team behind Bing’s Nomiya.

Business partner Bing Guo said he has been singing karaoke since he was a child and wanted to share the ability to make fond memories with his home of 13 years.

“We’ve got everything in Mackay, but Mackay definitely needed a karaoke bar,” Mr Guo said.

Business partners Leon Di, Bing Guo, John Wang, David Wang, Zhe Lu, and Jing-liang Liang with Mackay mayor Greg Williamson at Hibiki Karaoke and Whiskey Bar opening on February 17, 2023. Photo: Zoe Devenport

“Whether in Melbourne or China or Japan, everybody does karaoke and singing.

“All the international students, every Friday we would go singing.

Owner Bing Guo at Hibiki Karaoke and Whiskey Bar opening on February 17, 2023. Photo: Zoe Devenport

“This is very good entertainment for everyone.“It’s so exciting.”

Mr Guo manages a range of businesses across Mackay from Bing’s Nomiya restaurant and Bing Cha bubble tea on Victoria St, as well as Bing’s Nomiya Mini in Rural View.

Hibiki Karaoke and Whiskey Bar opening on February 17, 2023. Photo: Zoe Devenport

He is one of several business partners, mostly comprised of family and friends, who have helped build the various businesses.

Many family members and young children were at Hibiki on Friday to celebrate the opening.

Hibiki has five private karaoke rooms and a whiskey lounge opening up to a stage/dancefloor and bar, complete with tables and booth seating.

The grand opening featured sushi and canapes, Japanese whiskey and a host of Mackay’s business leaders including mayor Greg Williamson.

A private room at Hibiki Karaoke and Whiskey Bar opening on February 17, 2023. Photo: Zoe Devenport

Neon signage dots the interior design, encouraging patrons to ‘eat, drink, dance’ while they sing.

Regenerating the former Rice Buffet restaurant site, Hibiki will be at the heart of Mackay’s night-life precinct and stay open 5pm to 1am on Thursday and till 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Mr Guo hoped Mackay locals would embrace the chance to “spend time on Friday to come here and sing, have a couple of drinks, be free.”

Originally published as Hibiki Bar and Karaoke celebrates grand opening by Bing’s Nomiya owners