Over the past few years vinyl records have become more popular with younger music enthusiasts. Throughout Tokyo there are hundreds of vinyl record stores catering to the needs of analogue listeners, particularly in the neighborhoods of Shimokitazawa and Shibuya. So, if you’re a vinyl lover, or are looking to start your collection, spend a lazy Sunday browsing the offerings of these five record stores recommended by GoConnect. Happy listening!
Jet Set Records
Located in the trendy neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, this is one of the biggest record stores in Tokyo. The shop features a wide variety of long plays (LPs) across all genres—from hip hop and house to jazz and soul—and music from Japan and abroad. When you drop by, it’s likely you’ll find what you’re looking for.
Open: 1pm–8pm
Hi-Fi Record Store
This record store mainly stocks American records, in a wide range of genres—the perfect place for foreign music lovers. Located along Meiji-dori, this easily accessible spot is a must-visit.
Open: 11am–8pm
Flash Disc Ranch
Shimokitazawa is known for its vast array of record stores, and one of the most popular is Flash Disc Ranch. The atmospheric store—which you can hear a mile away—keeps its vintage sound system at full volume, showing off some of the LPs on offer. And, for the budget shoppers, there is a “three discs for ¥2,000” section!
Opening times: 12–8pm
Ella Records
Now located in Shibuya, after moving from Setagaya in 2016, Ella Records is a well-loved record store, known for offering a varied selection of genres, such as Japanese classics, rock, jazz, and many others. The wooden interior is inviting, relaxing and really sets the scene for vinyl shopping.
Open: 1pm–7pm (Closed Mondays)
Next Records
This store is perfect for those interested in foreign records, as it stocks about 10,000 titles primarily from the US and Europe. Twelve-inch hip hop, R&B, and many other singles are the bulk of the selection, and if you like the look of a cover and want to listen before you buy? You can plug in to some headphones and check out the album.
Open: 1pm–8pm
