Fukuoka is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, and a great place for music lovers and record fans alike. The center of Fukuoka city, especially the Tenjin area, is dotted with unique record shops, and you could visit several in a day. Here we introduce a selection of record shops that are a must-visit in Fukuoka. Go on a journey to find your favorite records.
1. Cyclo Market (Daimyo)
Located in Daimyo, Chikuro Market is a must-visit shop for music lovers and record collectors. With records of various genres such as rock, jazz, electronica, and world music, the store is always filled with music. In addition, there are English-speaking staff, so international visitors can enjoy shopping with peace of mind. Even if you are looking for a specific record, you can ask the staff for advice. Chikuro Market is a friendly shop where you can experience a wide variety of music.
2. Borderline Records (Daimyo)
Borderline Records, also located in the Daimyo area, is a small record shop that mainly handles vintage and rare records. It has a particular focus on classic rock, punk, and indie music, making it a treasure hunt for collectors. The store is staffed with passionate music staff who will help you discover new music and find the records you've been looking for. It's a charming store where you can feel the deep love for music.
3. Catfish Records (Daimyo)
Catfish Records is a jazz specialty record shop located in the Tenjin area with a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. With a wide range of jazz records from classical to modern, it is an ideal place for jazz lovers. The staff are knowledgeable about jazz and will kindly recommend albums that suit your tastes. Shopping here is a time to refresh your mind with music.
4. 70sRECORDS GARAGELAND (Daimyo)
70sRECORDS GARAGELAND is exactly what it sounds like: an ideal store for lovers of good old rock and punk. It stocks a wide range of classic rock, garage rock and punk music from the 1960s and 70s, including originals and reissues. If you want to feel the raw energy of that era, this is a must-visit. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the world of rock and roll from the past with the crackling sounds of records.
5. Taguchi Shoten (near Daimyo)
Taguchi Shoten is a rare example of an old-fashioned record shop. The store has been around for decades, and the wooden shelves and retro décor give the shop a nostalgic feel. It has a wide selection of vintage records, and is the perfect place to find rare Japanese records. You'll feel like you've traveled back in time as you pick up records you haven't seen in a while and discover music you've never heard before.
6. Groovin' Fukuoka (Daimyo no Soba)
Located in the heart of Tenjin, Groovin' Fukuoka is a popular record store that stocks records of all genres. From rock, pop, jazz, and classical, there is a wide range of records to choose from, and they also have a wide selection of CDs. Prices are reasonable, and there are many sales and special offers, so you might find a bargain. The wide selection is appealing for everyone, from beginners to collectors.
7. LIVING STEREO (Daimyo no Soba)
LIVING STEREO is a unique record shop where you can enjoy drinks along with music. Located in the Yakuin area, the store has a bar attached. The selection of music is focused on a relaxed atmosphere, such as jazz, blues, and soul, making it the perfect place to spend some time relaxing. You can relax with a cocktail in hand while selecting your records, making it a popular social gathering place for music lovers. It's a place where you can have a good time while immersing yourself in music.
8. RECORD POLIS
If you're a fan of rock, punk, or indie music, RECORD POLIS is the place for you. The store specializes in second-hand records, with a diverse selection ranging from well-known titles to hidden gems. The shop is filled with passion for music, with a particular focus on the underground and alternative scenes. This is the place to dig up rare records and discover music that you can't find anywhere else.
9. Tower Records Fukuoka Store (Tenjin)
Tower Records may no longer exist in the US, but it's still going strong in Fukuoka. Located in Tenjin, this store has a wide selection of music from Japan and abroad, with a focus on K-pop and J-pop. It's especially recommended for those looking for Japanese records with obi strips and new releases. From the latest music to nostalgic classics, this is a must-see shop for music lovers.
A day of record hunting in Fukuoka
The Tenjin area of Fukuoka, around Daimyo, is a real treasure trove for record lovers. A recommended route is to stop by Chikuro Market and Borderline Records in Daimyo, then continue to Groovin' and Taguchi Shoten. If you get tired, you can have a drink at Living Stereo. There are many other record shops in Fukuoka, but the ones introduced here are mostly long-established and trustworthy. Plan a day to visit these shops and bring home some memorable musical treasures.
Whether you're interested in collecting records or picking up a record for the first time, a tour of Fukuoka's record shops is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Spend a day touring the Tenjin area and experience the charm of Fukuoka's music to the fullest.
