Rhythms of the City: Exploring Fukuoka's Music Scene

Rhythms of the City: Exploring Fukuoka's Music Scene

Fukuoka, a city that has continuously produced numerous musicians since the Showa era, hosts a unique blend of musical experiences. From cafes that have been the birthplace of many musicians to large-scale live events and jazz festivals, Fukuoka is dotted with unique spots related to music.

Stereo Coffee


Stereo Coffee
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Nestled in a renovated residential house, Stereo Coffee offers a comforting blend of music streaming through large speakers and a high-quality sound system. With the concept of "Good Music Good Coffee," it's a meeting point for locals and travelers alike.

10:00~21:00 (9:00~ on weekends and hol., until 22:00 on Fri. and Sat.)


Address
3-8-3 Watanabe-dori, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Tower Records Fukuoka Parco

Tower Records Fukuoka Parcoの画像

This branch of the American-origin brand, now extinct in its homeland, boasts about 130,000 titles across a wide range of genres. Known for its in-store events featuring musicians, it's a classic record shop experience.

10:00~20:30


Address
6F Fukuoka Parco Main Building, 2-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Kurosawa Musical Instruments Store (Mina Tenjin)


Kurosawa Musical Instruments Store (Mina Tenjin)
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As one of the largest specialists in electric and acoustic guitars and basses in Japan, it offers an overwhelming selection from major brands like Fender and Gibson to niche items from around the world, alongside repair and maintenance services.

11:00~20:00

Address
8F Mina Tenjin, 4-3-8 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Como es


Como es
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The owner's collection of over 20,000 records is truly impressive. With "music, people, and a variety of cultures in harmony" as its concept, enjoy a relaxed time with coffee, sweets, or even a meal like curry rice. The second floor often hosts live music and art events.

11:00~18:00 (until 19:00 on weekends and hol.)
Closed: Tue.

Address
2-1-75 Imaizumi, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Ticro Market

Ticro Marketの画像

Specializing in club music, hip-hop, soul, jazz, and rock, Ticro Market offers both new and used records selected with a "good music" perspective, including rare items and analog 7inch records from musicians based in Kyushu.

11:00~21:00

Address
203 Tenjin Mies Building, 1-15-30 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Border Line Records Fukuoka Store


Border Line Records Fukuoka Store
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Handling all genres, with a pride in their collection of 60s-70s UK rock like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. It also specializes in indie music, including self-produced and demo recordings from Kyushu artists.

11:00~20:00


Address
2F Tachibana Building, 1-14-14 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Catfish Records

Catfish Recordsの画像

A jazz-specialized record store boasting the city's top selection of jazz new releases, from independent to major labels. Look for the "Catfish" sticker when you look up from the street.

14:00~20:00 (until 19:00 on Sun. and hol.)

Address
205 Toho Mansion, 1-10-33 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka


Jazz & Cafe Backstage

Jazz & Cafe Backstageの画像

Opened in 1974, Jazz & Cafe Backstage is a venerable jazz café and a forerunner among Fukuoka's jazz bars. It serves as a hub where musicians from Kyushu and beyond perform live nightly. With house bands like "Fukuoka-Joe" gracing its stage, impromptu sessions are welcome, offering a chance for musicians to mingle and perhaps even join in on the performances. This space provides a delightful opportunity for interaction among musicians and a chance to witness the emergence of future stars.

19:00~24:00 (Live performances start at 21:00)

Closed: Sun. and hol.

Address
2-4-31 Daimyo, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka