A guide to the best record shops in Tokyo

In a city that seems to run on digital energy, there is something magical on Tokyo’s booming vinyl stage. While streaming may dominate much of the world, modest record stores remain the cornerstone of Tokyo’s simulated culture. Whether you are hunting for rare Japanese pressures, looking for a contemporary release, or looking for a record after visiting one of them Tokyo’s listening postcontinue reading the city’s basic record shops, from multi-story giant shops to intimate expert paradise.

Big Player: Where to Start Your Vinyl Journey

Tower Records

Although the tower record gradually disappears from many global cities, its presence in Tokyo is still strong. The location of the Shibuya flagship store is a nine-story monument to music culture, with its sixth floor dedicated to an impressive vinyl collection spanning new versions and retro discoveries. Tower Records, apart from shibuya, maintains a strong presence in Tokyo, in Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Kinshicho and Kameari There are famous locations.

Disk Alliance

Japan’s most comprehensive music chain specializes in used vinyl and maintains unique genre stores throughout Tokyo. Each location develops its own expertise and is supported with a meticulous grading system and competitive prices. The Shinjuku branch excels in jazz, while Shimokitazawa focuses on hip-hop, R&B, House and Techno. The detailed grading system of this store means you will know exactly what you want to earn, whether you are browsing in ikebukuro (the location of the chain’s largest store) or looking for treasures in Shibuya, Nakano or Kichijoji. Standardized conditional ratings make it a trusted name among international collectors.

HMV record

Although HMV is not as big as its main competitors, it has mastered the art of curating. The Shibuya branch (formerly known as the “vinyl mecca” of the 1990s) focuses on second-hand simulation recording and CD. From the 1960s to the 1990s, it offers a wealth of rare and classic albums, directly from overseas buyers. The choice of Crescent and Kichijoji locations is equally attentive – perfect for a record shopping experience you want a more intimate record shopping experience.

Independence gemstones of Shimokitazawa, Harajuku and Shibuya

Image provided

Jet (Shimokitazawa)

The store curates the latest versions of hip-hop, jazz, soul, electronics, environments and indie pop music so the best options can be extracted from a large online catalog. It is also a hub for the Japanese independent stage, with impressive self-production and Japanese independent version options. Despite the compact size of the store, you can still test potential purchases with a turntable and top-notch sound equipment. Surrounded by live venues and recording studios, it’s the perfect place to discover your favorite artist.

City city (Shimokitazawa)

This intimate shibuya spot specializes in soul, funk and disco, and a growing number of Japanese urban pop music. The owner’s passionate expertise shines in both the choice and regular in-store DJ sets that transform the space into a community-centric in-store. What sets this store apart is its unique blend of music and dining – the space is twice as good as a café and bar, where old-fashioned wooden furniture creates the ideal environment for enjoying drinks to explore new sounds. In an unexpected but pleasant twist, the store is also known for its excellent pasta dishes, making it an ideal destination for lunch breaks during a vinyl hunting adventure.

Piano Records (Shimokitazawa)

Born in 2020, Piano Records brings new ways to vinyl hunting. Located in the bonus track, the store is an arts complex with eclectic shops and restaurants, from experimental soundscapes and popular hits to T-shirts and candles, this store has it all. Scan through the store’s wood shelves and you will realize that the records are not separated by the type, so choose your choice and expect to be surprised. The outdoor seating area is perfect for those sunny Tokyo afternoons.

Ella Records (Hatagaya, Yoyogi-uehara)

Situated between Hatagaya and Yoyogi-uehara, Ella Records feels like a personal collection of your coolest friends. Those sunny hearing stations on the windows are the perfect place to test potential purchases. In addition, Padler’s coffee next door also means that your caffeine needs are also met. If you pass Online StoreElla Records has a Retro showroom In the date-only Shimokitazawa, you can preview and listen to the records before purchasing.

Great Love Record (Harajuku)

If you are serious about indie and underground music, this ridiculous place is your holy grail. Big Love is dedicated to new imported goods with special attention to garages and separate rocks. It’s a unique twist: The store’s craft IPA is clicking, but you need to buy a record before you can enjoy the bar space.

Yomu-Kiku-Nomu (Harajuku)

Yomu-Kiku-Nomu translates as “read, listen, drink”, combining a bookstore, a record store and a cafe. This eclectic combination allows customers to immerse themselves in literature and music simultaneously, thus creating a culturally rich experience.

Photo courtesy of GeneralRecordStore.com

Facial record (shibuya)

Face Records recently settled in its new home in Miyajima Park, and while its soul, jazz and Japanese distributions are particularly noteworthy, Face Records has a range of genres. The store’s deep musical knowledge and passionate atmosphere combine to make it an indispensable destination.

Pro tips for hunting the next record

• • Store time, especially independent time, can be unpredictable, so check out their Instagram page or website before you go.
  • Many stores offer hearing stations – use them! This is all part of the experience.
  • Don’t forget to explore the neighborhoods around you.
  • Consider joining Tour guide record store trip If you want a more carefully planned experience, or study it more deeply Visit Tokyo’s underground music scene.

Related Articles