Tower Records (Shibuya): A Music Lover’s Paradise in Japan

If you are a music lover visiting Japan, then Tower Records (Shibuya) is a must-visit destination. This iconic music store is located just a short walk north of Shibuya Station and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will explore the highlights of Tower Records (Shibuya), its history, atmosphere, culture, how to access it, nearby places to visit, and more.

The Highlights of Tower Records (Shibuya)

Tower Records (Shibuya) is a six-story building that houses a vast collection of music, movies, and books. Here are some of the highlights of this music lover’s paradise:

The History of Tower Records (Shibuya)

Tower Records (Shibuya) opened its doors in 1979 and quickly became a popular destination for music lovers in Japan. The store was part of the international Tower Records chain, which had its headquarters in Sacramento, California. The chain was founded by Russ Solomon in 1960 and grew to become one of the largest music retailers in the world.

Tower Records (Shibuya) was known for its vast collection of music and its dedication to promoting local artists. The store hosted numerous live performances by Japanese musicians and helped launch the careers of many artists.

In 2002, Tower Records (Shibuya) underwent a major renovation and expanded to six floors. The store continued to thrive until the rise of digital music and online streaming services led to a decline in physical music sales. In 2010, the international Tower Records chain filed for bankruptcy, and the Shibuya store closed its doors.

However, in 2012, the store was reopened by a Japanese company called Culture Convenience Club. The new store retained the Tower Records name and continued to offer a vast collection of music, movies, and books.

Atmosfera

The atmosphere of Tower Records (Shibuya) is vibrant and energetic. The store is always bustling with music lovers browsing through the vast collection of CDs, vinyl records, and DVDs. The live performances add to the lively atmosphere, and you can often hear music playing throughout the store.

The café on the top floor offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a panoramic view of Shibuya. It’s a great place to take a break from browsing and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal.

Kultura

Tower Records (Shibuya) is a cultural icon in Japan and has played a significant role in promoting local music and artists. The store has hosted numerous live performances by Japanese musicians and has helped launch the careers of many artists.

The store also reflects the vibrant and diverse music culture of Japan. You can find music from all genres, including J-pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz, and classical. The store also has a dedicated section for international music, reflecting Japan’s love for music from around the world.

How to Access Tower Records (Shibuya)

Tower Records (Shibuya) is located just a short walk north of Shibuya Station. Take the Hachiko Exit and walk straight ahead until you reach the Shibuya 109 building. Tower Records (Shibuya) is located just across the street from Shibuya 109.

Mjesta u blizini za posjetiti

If you are visiting Tower Records (Shibuya), there are several nearby places that you can visit:

Mjesta u blizini koja su otvorena 24/7

If you are looking for places to visit late at night, here are some nearby spots that are open 24/7:

Zaključak

Tower Records (Shibuya) is a music lover’s paradise in Japan. The store’s vast collection of music, live performances, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination. Whether you are a fan of Japanese pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz, or classical music, you are sure to find something that you love at Tower Records (Shibuya). So, if you are visiting Tokyo, be sure to add Tower Records (Shibuya) to your itinerary.