Hey music lovers, Ami here! Let’s get real for a sec. You’ve seen it, you’ve heard it, you’ve felt it. That dreamy, sun-drenched vibe that feels like a forgotten summer from 1985. We’re talking about City Pop, the soundtrack to a retro-futuristic Tokyo that lives in all our hearts. It’s that smooth, funky, and impossibly chic sound that’s been taking over the internet, one algorithm-fed discovery at a time. But here’s the tea: streaming it is one thing, but holding it in your hands? That’s a whole other level of awesome. The album art is a universe in itself—a pastel-soaked world of seaside highways, glittering skyscrapers, and stylish silhouettes that are just pure, uncut kawaii. It’s an entire aesthetic, a whole mood. And if you want to dive headfirst into that vibe, there’s only one place to go: the vinyl dens of Tokyo. This isn’t just about shopping; it’s a pilgrimage. It’s about the thrill of the hunt, the scent of old cardboard sleeves, and the satisfaction of pulling a pristine pressing of a long-lost gem from a dusty crate. It’s about finding the physical manifestation of that sound you fell in love with online. So, grab your chicest tote bag, put on your most comfortable kicks, and get ready. We’re about to embark on a journey through the coolest neighborhoods, digging deep into the record stores where the City Pop dream is alive and spinning. This is your ultimate guide to finding that perfect piece of plastic that will be the soundtrack to your Tokyo adventure. Let’s drop the needle and get this party started!
If you’re captivated by the retro sounds of Tokyo, you might also enjoy exploring the roots of Japan’s vinyl culture through its psychedelic 1960s Group Sounds.
The City Pop Renaissance: Why We’re All So Obsessed
So, what’s the story behind City Pop? If you’re new to it, let’s break it down. Imagine Japan in the late ’70s and ’80s: the economy is booming, optimism fills the air, and Tokyo shines as a glittering metropolis full of endless possibilities. This period gave rise to a new sound—a sophisticated blend of pop, funk, soul, and AOR (Adult-Oriented Rock)—perfect for cruising the Shuto Expressway in a convertible at sunset. It’s the soundtrack of urban life at its most glamorous and carefree. Artists like Tatsuro Yamashita, the undisputed king of the genre, crafted lush, layered soundscapes that feel both deeply nostalgic and timeless. Then there’s Mariya Takeuchi, the queen, whose song “Plastic Love” became a viral global hit decades after its release thanks to a mysterious YouTube upload. Seriously, if you haven’t explored that rabbit hole, you’re missing out. Her smooth vocals and the song’s melancholic yet danceable groove perfectly capture the bittersweet essence of City Pop. We also celebrate icons like Anri, whose album “Timely!!” is a masterclass in summer vibes, and Toshiki Kadomatsu, famous for his legendary funky basslines. But the music tells only half the story. The other half—the part that makes your eyes light up and your fingers itch to own the physical record—is the album art. These covers are graphic design masterpieces, little windows into a hyper-stylized world. They developed a visual language that’s instantly recognizable and endlessly influential. The aesthetic draws heavily on the American West Coast dream—think David Hockney paintings, but with a distinct Japanese touch. The art is clean, optimistic, and radiates a cool, breezy confidence. It’s this blend of killer tunes and stunning visuals that makes searching for City Pop vinyl so addictive. It’s not just an album; it’s a piece of art, a time capsule, a tangible fragment of a golden era long past. The vinyl revival has hit Japan hard, and these records, once found in bargain bins, have become prized treasures for a new generation of listeners worldwide.
Gearing Up for Your Tokyo Vinyl Pilgrimage
Alright, before you dive headfirst into the crates, let’s talk preparation. A successful day of record digging hinges on being well-prepared. First and foremost, your gear. A sturdy, stylish tote bag is essential. You’ll be carrying your precious finds all day, so a flimsy plastic bag simply won’t do. Think of it as an accessory that completes your digger-chic look. And speaking of looks, we’ll get to fashion later, but comfortable shoes are your absolute best ally. You’ll be on your feet for hours, navigating crowded aisles and trekking between neighborhoods. Trust me on this one. Now, let’s discuss etiquette. Japanese record stores are music temples and deserve respect. When browsing, handle records carefully—hold them by the edges and be gentle sliding them in and out of their sleeves. Many stores have listening stations, which are perfect for discovering new artists. Look for a sign that says 「試聴できます」(shichou dekimasu), meaning “You can listen to this.” If unsure, politely ask staff with 「試聴できますか？」(shichou dekimasu ka?). A few other useful phrases: 「これはありますか？」(kore wa arimasu ka?) – “Do you have this?” and when ready to purchase, 「これください」(kore kudasai) – “I’ll take this, please.” The staff in these stores are usually very knowledgeable and friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. One last tip: get to know the Japanese record grading system. While some shops use the Western Goldmine standard (M, NM, VG+, etc.), many employ a simpler method: S for Sealed, A for Mint/Near Mint, B for Excellent/Very Good, and C for Good/Fair. These grades often appear on a sticker on the outer plastic sleeve. Also, check if the record includes its original obi strip—that paper sash wrapped around the cover. For collectors, an obi is a must-have that can significantly boost a record’s value and visual appeal.
Shibuya: The Neon-Soaked Heartbeat of Vinyl
Shibuya. The name alone evokes images of the Scramble Crossing, a chaotic, pulsating sea of people. But beyond the flashing lights and tourist throngs, Shibuya is the vibrant heart of Japanese music culture. It’s where trends are born and home to some of the most legendary record stores in the world. This is your ground zero.
HMV Record Shop Shibuya
Your first stop must be HMV. Situated in the center of Shibuya, this three-story giant is a vinyl enthusiast’s dream. The moment you enter, you’re welcomed by a clean, organized, and inviting space that feels both modern and deeply respectful of music history. The ground floor usually features new releases, reissues, and an excellent selection of City Pop and Japanese Groove. Here, you’ll find those immaculate re-pressings of classic albums you’ve been longing for. The staff are experts in curation, often showcasing displays focused on specific artists or themes, making discovery a genuine pleasure. As you ride the escalators upward, you’ll encounter floors dedicated to rock, soul, jazz, and more. The selection of both Japanese and international pressings is astonishing. What I appreciate most about HMV is the atmosphere; it’s always buzzing with a blend of serious collectors, curious tourists, and local music lovers. You can easily spend hours here browsing, soaking up the vibe, and sampling potential purchases at their high-quality listening stations. Their collection of 7-inch singles is outstanding, perfect for uncovering rare City Pop B-sides.
Tower Records Shibuya
Just a short walk from HMV is the iconic nine-story Tower Records flagship store. Its bright red and yellow sign is unmistakable. While some may see it as a CD-centric relic, don’t be deceived. Head up to the sixth floor, and you’ll find TOWER VINYL SHIBUYA, a vast space dedicated to vinyl. The vibe here differs from the more specialized shops; it’s brighter, more open, and resembles a modern department store devoted to music. Yet, the selection is seriously impressive. They carry a vast array of new releases from around the globe, but their Japanese music section truly shines. You’ll discover entire sections devoted to City Pop, Showa Kayo, and contemporary Japanese indie bands. Tower Records often partners with artists for exclusive releases and in-store events, so you might even catch a live performance or DJ set while browsing. It’s an excellent place to get a snapshot of current trends in the Japanese music scene while digging for older classics. This blend of old and new, combined with its enormous size, almost guarantees you’ll find something you love.
Disk Union Shibuya
Now we delve into the essentials. Disk Union is a legendary chain and the holy grail for many hardcore vinyl hunters. What sets them apart is their network of highly specialized stores. In Shibuya alone, there are several branches, each focusing on a distinct genre. The Shibuya Club Music Shop, for example, is a must-visit. While it specializes in dance music, its sections for Japanese soul, funk, and disco are absolute treasure troves for City Pop and related genres. This is where you’ll uncover those obscure, groovy tracks sought after by DJs. Then there’s the main Shibuya store, covering rock and pop, and the Jazz & Rare Groove store. The thrill of Disk Union lies in the hunt. Their shops are packed floor to ceiling with records, creating an exhilarating treasure-hunt vibe. Pricing is fair, and grading is trustworthy. They also boast a massive used section, where you’ll find original pressings from the ’70s and ’80s. Visiting Disk Union is a vital part of the Tokyo vinyl experience; it’s where you can truly immerse yourself in music.
Face Records
If the mega-stores feel a bit overwhelming, Face Records is your haven. Nestled in a building near Shibuya Parco, this shop offers a more curated, boutique experience. They are globally renowned for their impeccable selection of Japanese jazz, soul, funk, and, of course, City Pop. The staff have impeccable taste, and you can trust that anything found here is of high quality. The store itself is cozy and stylish, with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to take your time browsing. This is the kind of place where you might discover your new favorite artist simply by admiring a striking album cover and asking the staff about it. They focus heavily on rare and sought-after records, making it an excellent spot for serious collectors, though it remains welcoming to newcomers. Prices can be a bit higher, but you’re paying for quality and expert curation. Visiting Face Records feels less like shopping and more like experiencing a gallery dedicated to extraordinary music.
Shinjuku: A Labyrinth of Sonic Dreams
If Shibuya is the bright, flashy main stage, Shinjuku is the vast, multi-layered backstage—a labyrinth full of endless discoveries. It’s bigger, denser, and carries a slightly grittier vibe. Navigating the enormous Shinjuku Station is a challenge in itself, but the rewards for vinyl hunters are immense. Here, you’ll find some of the most specialized and extensive record stores in the world.
Disk Union Shinjuku Main Building
Get ready, because this is the flagship location. The Disk Union Shinjuku complex isn’t just a single store; it’s a cluster of buildings and floors, each representing its own sonic universe. The main building is a tower where every floor focuses on a different genre. You take the elevator up, and with each stop, you enter a new realm. The 4th floor typically houses Japanese Rock and Indie, making it your go-to spot for City Pop. The sheer volume of records is almost overwhelming. This place is a pilgrimage site for collectors worldwide. You’ll spot fellow diggers, headphones on, engrossed in their own worlds at listening stations. The staff are true experts, often possessing encyclopedic knowledge of their genres. The organization is precise, with artists arranged alphabetically and sections dedicated to new arrivals and rare finds. Digging here can easily take all day. You might spend hours on just one floor, meticulously flipping through thousands of records, your pulse quickening with every familiar spine or intriguing cover you spot. It’s an intense, thrilling, and deeply satisfying experience.
Disk Union Showa Kayo Kan
Here it is. If you’re seeking that authentic, kawaii ’80s vibe, Disk Union Showa Kayo Kan is your holy sanctuary. Located in a separate building from the main complex, this store is a time capsule devoted to the golden era of Japanese popular music. “Showa Kayo” refers to popular music of the Showa period (1926–1989), which includes City Pop as well as earlier idol songs, folk, and pop ballads. The moment you step inside, you’re transported back. Walls are adorned with vintage ’80s pop star posters, nostalgic melodies fill the air, and the bins overflow with albums whose covers are pure aesthetic treasures. This is where you’ll find records featuring the most charming, retro-kawaii artwork—think pastel hues, soft-focus photos of idols in frilly dresses, and dreamy illustrations. The staff here are passionate custodians of this musical legacy. They live and breathe the music. It’s more than a store; it’s a cultural institution. You can discover everything from mega-hits by artists like Seiko Matsuda to obscure one-hit wonders. This is the spot to uncover deeper cuts and the true spirit of the era’s pop culture. Even if you don’t end up buying anything (which is unlikely), a visit to Showa Kayo Kan is an essential cultural experience for any Japanophile.
HAL’S RECORD
For the serious collector, HAL’S is a name spoken with reverence. This smaller, upscale shop specializes in rare and collectible pressings. It’s less about casual browsing and more a destination for those hunting a specific holy grail album. The emphasis here is on quality rather than quantity. Every record is carefully curated, cleaned, and graded. You’ll find top-tier City Pop, Japanese jazz, and rare groove, often in pristine condition with the original obi strip intact. Prices reflect the rarity and condition, so be prepared to invest. But for a dedicated fan, finding a long-sought-after album at HAL’S is a moment of pure triumph. It’s a testament to the depth and passion of Tokyo’s record-collecting community.
Shimokitazawa: Vintage Threads and Vinyl Grooves
Escape the towering intensity of Shibuya and Shinjuku by hopping on a train to Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s undisputed hub of cool. This neighborhood is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets filled with vintage clothing shops, independent theaters, quirky cafes, and, naturally, amazing record stores. The atmosphere here is relaxed, artsy, and effortlessly chic. Hunting for records in Shimokitazawa isn’t just a pastime; it’s woven into the local lifestyle. It’s about discovering a great record, picking up a vintage band tee to match, and then chatting about your finds over a craft coffee. It’s truly a vibe.
Flash Disc Ranch
This spot is iconic. Flash Disc Ranch embodies the quintessential dusty, old-school record store. Don’t expect tidy, well-organized aisles here; instead, it’s a blissful chaos of vinyl. Records are piled high on shelves, stacked in crates on the floor, and arranged in gravity-defying heaps. The owner is a celebrated figure in the scene, and the shop reflects decades of passionate collecting. The sheer volume of vinyl is staggering, and you need to be ready to really dig. This place isn’t for the faint-hearted. You’ll get your hands dusty flipping through tightly packed crates, but the excitement of the hunt makes it worthwhile. Prices are very reasonable, and you have a high chance of uncovering a rare gem. You might stumble upon a rare psych-rock album nestled between enka ballads or find a pristine City Pop classic in a dollar bin. Flash Disc Ranch is an adventure and a rite of passage for any serious vinyl lover visiting Tokyo.
City Country City
True to its name, this venue perfectly encapsulates the breezy, refined sound of artists blending urban and rural influences. What makes City Country City especially unique is that it’s both a superb record store and a laid-back cafe. The owner, a musician and DJ, has curated a fantastic collection focusing on soul, AOR, folk, and mellow tunes, with plenty of Japanese City Pop included. The concept is pure genius—you can order a tasty coffee and sandwich, sit back, and enjoy the amazing soundtrack the owner is spinning. Then, once you’re energized and inspired, browse through the carefully selected bins. It’s a calm, welcoming space—completely opposite to the hectic energy of larger shops. It’s the perfect spot to spend a slow afternoon discovering new music in the most enjoyable way. This truly embodies the Shimokitazawa lifestyle.
JET SET Tokyo
JET SET is another major player in the Shimokitazawa record scene. Originally from Kyoto, their Tokyo branch is a must-visit for anyone interested in the latest music trends. While they offer a fantastic second-hand section where you can definitely score City Pop classics, their real strength lies in new releases. They promote independent labels and artists from Japan and beyond. Here, you’ll find the newest Japanese indie-pop vinyl, limited-edition electronic 12-inches, or fresh reissues of classic funk albums. JET SET bridges the past and the present, demonstrating how genres like City Pop continue to inspire today’s artists. The knowledgeable staff are eager to introduce you to new bands carrying on the City Pop legacy, making it an ideal spot for both discovery and digging into the classics.
The Art of the Dig: Finding Your Kawaii Treasure
Let’s focus on the main attraction: the album art. Searching for these records is as much a visual adventure as it is a musical one. The aesthetic is so distinctive that you can often spot a potential City Pop treasure from across the room, even if you’ve never heard of the artist. The secret is to recognize the visual masters of the era. Two names stand out above the rest: Hiroshi Nagai and Eizin Suzuki. Their artwork has become synonymous with the genre. Hiroshi Nagai is the master of the poolside fantasy. His paintings showcase crisp, clean lines, impossibly blue skies, shimmering swimming pools, classic American cars, and an absence of people, crafting a serene, sunlit, and slightly wistful dreamscape. His covers for artists like Eiichi Ohtaki are iconic. Eizin Suzuki’s style is equally vibrant but often more intricate and dynamic. He employs bright, saturated colors and frequently portrays romanticized American scenes—beachfronts, gas stations, and diners—with meticulous, almost photorealistic detail. His work evokes summer and adventure. When you’re digging, watch for these styles. Look for covers featuring palm trees, highways stretching into the sunset, silhouettes against glittering city skylines, and that signature pastel color palette. Another uniquely Japanese element to appreciate is the obi strip. This paper band wrapped around the left side of the album sleeve contains details like the artist’s name, album title, tracklist, and price in Japanese. While originally meant for information, it has become an essential part of the album’s aesthetic for collectors. An album with its obi intact is not only more valuable but also feels more complete, a perfect time capsule of its original release. So when you discover a record you love, check for that obi—it’s the cherry on top.
A Fashionable Dig: What to Wear on Your Record Hunt
As a travel writer who also dabbles in the apparel world, I can’t help but consider the ideal outfit for a day spent hunting for vinyl. After all, this is an aesthetic experience, so why not dress accordingly? The secret lies in balancing style and practicality. You want to look good but also stay comfortable. My go-to approach begins with the shoes—this is non-negotiable: wear your most comfortable sneakers or flats, as you’ll be walking and standing for hours on end. For the outfit, think modern vintage. High-waisted, wide-leg trousers or jeans provide a subtle nod to the ’80s silhouette while remaining incredibly comfortable. Pair them with a simple, well-fitting t-shirt or a breezy button-down shirt. In cooler weather, a slightly oversized blazer makes the perfect layering piece—chic, practical, and reminiscent of that sophisticated City Pop vibe. And the most essential accessory, as I mentioned before, is your tote bag. This is your opportunity to make a statement. Look for a stylish canvas tote from a museum, bookstore, or even one of the record stores themselves (many sell their own branded bags). It should be large enough to safely carry a few 12-inch records without bending the corners. This outfit is practical for navigating crowded stores and stylish enough for a post-dig coffee or cocktail in a trendy neighborhood like Shimokitazawa or Shibuya.
Safety and Savvy Shopping: A Girl’s Guide to Tokyo’s Record Scene
One of the greatest aspects of traveling in Japan, particularly as a solo woman, is how remarkably safe it feels. The strong sense of public order and respect is incredible, allowing you to unwind and fully immerse yourself in your adventure. That said, it’s always wise to stay alert, especially in extremely crowded spots like Shibuya and Shinjuku. When you’re in a packed record store, keep your bag zipped and in front of you. The biggest risk isn’t malicious intent but rather accidental bumps in tight spaces. When navigating busy train stations, simply go with the flow and stay aware of your surroundings. When shopping, be smart. While most stores accept credit cards, some smaller, older, or more niche shops might only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry a reasonable amount of yen with you. For tourists, the magic phrase is “tax-free.” If you spend over a certain amount (usually 5,000 yen) at larger stores like HMV, Tower Records, and Disk Union, you can get the consumption tax refunded. You’ll need to show your passport when making the purchase, so be sure to have it handy. The staff will take care of the paperwork for you. It’s an easy way to save a bit of money, which, naturally, you can then spend on more records! Ultimately, the atmosphere in Tokyo’s record stores is overwhelmingly positive and welcoming. It’s a community of passionate people united by their love of music. So relax, be respectful, and enjoy the experience.
This journey into Tokyo’s record stores is far more than just shopping. It’s a deep dive into a unique moment in Japanese cultural history that feels especially relevant today. It’s a tactile, sensory experience that connects you to music in a way streaming never can. Every record you discover is a trophy, a piece of art, and a soundtrack to your own Tokyo story. So get out there and start digging. Explore the back alleys, climb the narrow staircases, and don’t be afraid to take a chance on an album just because the cover speaks to you. You never know what you might find. The perfect groove is waiting for you.
Happy digging, music lovers! Hope you find the beat that makes your heart sing. Catch you on the flip side!
