While globalisation might be streamlining the travel experience into a similar set of experiences worldwide Japan remains as a unique and bewildering country to visit still far enough removed from the Western world.
We’ve explored the weird, wonderful and gloriously big Tokyo and the smaller, but no less impressive Osaka, while our festival guide put into focus Japan’s biggest music festival in Fuji Rock.
Kyoto is similarly as Japanese and eccentric to the Western eye as Tokyo and Osaka, although it has plenty of its own unique features that make it worth spending several days here (if not more).
Perhaps the least surprising is that Kyoto, along with the rest of the world and Tokyo indeed, is seemingly bursting at the seems with record stores that are rising in popularity.
We’ve listed four below, although two others worth checking out are Torada Records and Workshop records. Given that the city of Kyoto only has a population of around 1.5 million, the fact the metropolis has that many record stores worth mentioning is quite staggering.
Similarly Kyoto has more than fifty music venues, most of which are intimate enough for audiences to feel up close and personal with the musicians on stage. You’ll need to head back to Tokyo or even Osaka for bigger venues,
Although what makes Kyoto’s music scene stand apart from other big cities in Japan is that it’s small enough for niche scenes to stand apart rather being a drop in very big pond.
Take the Irish influence for example. As expat Jay Gregg discusses with Japan Times the Irish music scene in Kyoto is stronger than in some parts of the US.
“Every weekend in Kyoto there are live music and jam sessions throughout all the Irish pubs — at least 10 thriving clubs,” says Gregg.
That might seem contradictory to our opening sentiments, but you can imagine the Japanese take on Irish music is a take on Irish music unlike you’ve ever heard before.
With that in mind you never know what trend or music niche is taking off in Kyoto. Prepare to be surprised.
Head To The City’s Premiere Live House In Taku-Taku
Tominokōji-dōri-Bukkōji
Formerly a sake brewhouse this establishment has since become one of the city’ most renowned music houses. Opened in 1974 the venue has boasted the bookings of big local and international rock and blues names. While you’ll find more Japanese acts here than anything else you can assured you’d be hard pressed to find a dull band in the house at any given time.
Shop Up At Joe’s Garage For Used Vinyl
Yubinbango604-8124
Named after Frank Zappa’s three act rock opera released in 1979 it should come as little surprise to hear that this vinyl house is home to an incredible selection of 60s and 70s used vinyl. There’s plenty of rock, pop and hip-hop along with a few rare collectibles that can be found in the mix as well.
Listen to J-pop singer Kumi Koda
With 11 studio albums, two cover albums, five compilation albums, seven remix albums, six live albums and 56 singles fans of this pop singer are well catered for. Such is the J-pop way though and Kumi Koda is one of Kyoto’s finest. Since her debut album was released in 2002 this singer has retained her relevance as a popular J-pop figure.
Find All Your Electronic Vinyl Goods At Art Rock No.1
Fans of electronica and its many eccentric subsidiaries Art Rock No.1 is your first point of call for vinyl in Kyoto. With a decent selection of rare 7” singles as well you can be assured there are quite a few hidden treasures stacked on their shelves. While much of their catalogue comes from Warp Records there’s enough diversity here for those with eclectic tastes.
Experience Classical Music At Kyoto Concert Hall
Sakyō-ku, Shimogamo, Hangi-chō 1-26
This establishment has all the same features of the world’s great classical music venues. It’s architecturally beautiful, has excellent acoustics and a consistent program of talented musicians to boast. While it’s one of Kyoto’s more modern buildings the inside is an incredible sight to behold.
Hear The Experimental Metal & Poetry Of Kyo
If the saccharine J-pop gets a little too much for Kyo is there as a perfect antidote. Not only is the musician one of Kyoto’s most interesting acts, but he is one of Japan’s most talented sons. The singer, songwriter, producer, poet and illustrator has released two volumes of poetry along with short bonus CDs of experimental metal.
Forest A from kyo official on Vimeo.
Go Underground At Café Independents
1928 Bldg., Sanjo-dori, Goko-machi, Nakagyō-ku
Located in a basement Café Independent fittingly hosts underground indie rock, DJs, jazz and blues acts. The venue is characterised by graffiti-covered walls, trestle tables and plenty of other artistic features. As an added bonus there venue sometimes has English speaking staff working.
Get Lost In The Vinyl Mecca Of Jet Set
Nakagyoku Shimomaruya-cho, 410
If you want a big vinyl store with all the relevant perks included, but also with a collection that people only rave over in smaller establishments Jet Set should have you covered. With high quality listening stations and a huge collection of vinyl, few leave here without buying at least a couple of records.
Discover Japan’s Oldest Theatre In Minami-za
Shijō-Ōhashi
For most tourists this place is a must-visit but it’s especially true for the music minded. Minami-za is the oldest kabuki theatre in Japan and it is the venue for Kaomise festival, which feature Japan’s greatest kabuki actors. However the theatre hosts plenty of other performances irregularly throughout the year.
Listen, Taste and Witness At Japonica
Kamihon’nojimae town 476 Assist Building B1
With an all in one purpose like similar European and American art spaces Japonica caters for the culture heavy heads. It’s a record store, gallery space and café in one. Vinyl-wise though Japonica is known for its selection of downtempo, techno, rap and indie music.
Catch 10-Feet Perform Live In Their Hometown
Since 1997 this pop punk three-piece have stages alight with a blistering pace brand of rock. With nine studios albums and a best of to their name to 10 Feet Tall have consistently kept their fans on board with an energetic stage show.
