BLOW UP
Shibuya, Tokyo
Tucked into the backstreets of Shibuya (渋谷), BLOW UP is the kind of kissa where the city's neon bustle feels a world away once you slip through the door; think low, warm lighting, a compact room lined with well-thumbed record sleeves, and an owner who treats vinyl like a living, breathing guest. As a music-focused kissaten/bar it specializes in carefully curated sets—everything from British mod and garage to Japanese psych and obscure imports—played on vintage turntables with an emphasis on sound quality over spectacle, and occasional intimate live performances that put the musicians within arm’s reach. The crowd skews like-minded: record collectors, late-night wanderers, and local musicians who appreciate a place that values listening as much as socializing. Drinks are simple but thoughtfully made, offering the kind of slow-sip comfort that matches the music’s tempo. For travelers wanting an authentic slice of Tokyo music culture, BLOW UP rewards those who explore Shibuya’s alleys and come ready to listen, trade recommendations, and discover records you didn’t know you needed.
Tucked into the backstreets of Shibuya (渋谷), BLOW UP is the kind of kissa where the city's neon bustle feels a world away once you slip through the door; think low, warm lighting, a compact room lined with well-thumbed record sleeves, and an owner who treats vinyl like a living, breathing guest. As a music-focused kissaten/bar it specializes in carefully curated sets—everything from British mod and garage to Japanese psych and obscure imports—played on vintage turntables with an emphasis on sound quality over spectacle, and occasional intimate live performances that put the musicians within arm’s reach. The crowd skews like-minded: record collectors, late-night wanderers, and local musicians who appreciate a place that values listening as much as socializing. Drinks are simple but thoughtfully made, offering the kind of slow-sip comfort that matches the music’s tempo. For travelers wanting an authentic slice of Tokyo music culture, BLOW UP rewards those who explore Shibuya’s alleys and come ready to listen, trade recommendations, and discover records you didn’t know you needed.