DEEPTOKYO
magazine
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DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
City Pop & Wa-Fusion Galore: A Shibuya Vinyl Destination
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The long-established record shop Face Records, based in Shibuya’s Udagawacho district, opened a new branch in 2020: Face Records MIYASHITA PARK. The shop offers a broad range of secondhand records, with a particularly strong lineup of wa-mono (Japanese music). It also features a wide selection of entry-level record players and music-related goods. With its welcoming atmosphere, the store introduces the charm of vinyl culture to people of all ages and nationalities.
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Originally launched in 1996 in Udagawacho—once a mecca for record shops—Face Records has earned the trust of professional DJs and helped shape Shibuya’s record culture for nearly three decades.
The new location, Face Records MIYASHITA PARK, opened in 2020 inside MIYASHITA PARK, a cultural complex that combines a park, shopping center, and hotel—a symbol of today’s Shibuya. One staff member shares, “By leveraging this diverse commercial hub where people of various backgrounds gather, we want to create a space where younger generations unfamiliar with vinyl can experience records for the first time.”
Inside, the store balances a wide variety of genres, making it accessible for all.
Face Records was founded in 1994 as a mail-order store specializing in used vinyl.
There is a listening station available, where customers are encouraged to sample as many records as they like. “We want our customers to have fun listening freely,” say the staff.
A vending machine selling “CBDX,” a lightly carbonated drink containing 20mg of CBD (cannabidiol), is also installed inside the shop.
Thanks to its commercial location, the store welcomes foot traffic from those who may be new to vinyl and stocks a broad selection of records. About 80–90% of the inventory consists of secondhand records spanning genres like city pop, kayōkyoku, rock, jazz, soul/R&B, and hip hop. The focus is on well-loved staples that appeal to both beginners and collectors. With many international visitors, tax-free shopping is available for purchases over ¥5,000. The shop is also known for its courteous and expert record-buying service.
One section is dedicated to eye-catching city pop and wa-fusion jackets.
As with the main Udagawacho location, this store also carries an impressive range of Black music.
Used records arrive nearly every day, and staff meticulously inspect each one.
Among the store’s offerings, the wa-mono section—especially city pop—stands out as a major draw. Beloved titles by artists like Tatsuro Yamashita, Eiichi Ohtaki, and Taeko Onuki are especially popular with overseas customers. Rare records and unexpected finds may also await. Following the surge in city pop’s popularity, wa-fusion has also seen renewed attention. This uniquely Japanese genre blends jazz with funk, Latin, and rock elements. Artists like Masayoshi Takanaka and Casiopea are enjoying a revival thanks in part to exposure from overseas DJs.
Our Connection by Ayumi Ishida and the Tin Pan Alley Family – ¥15,400
First Light, a 1982 solo album by guitarist Makoto Matsushita filled with AOR-style tracks that embody the spirit of city pop – ¥19,800
Made in Japan by Yuko Shibuya, packed with AOR and disco-boogie – ¥18,700
After Five Clash produced by Toshiki Kadomatsu, a funky masterpiece of urban nightlife – ¥15,400
Lonely Girl by Yuri Satō, a 1983 release from a cult idol who left behind only four singles – ¥44,000
All of Me (new), a best-of compilation of Masayoshi Takanaka’s tracks from 1976–78 – ¥6,600
Brazilian Skies by Masayoshi Takanaka, a defining wa-fusion album featuring Ryuichi Sakamoto and a samba cover of “Star Wars” – ¥4,400 (new)
Summer Breeze by Piper, its jacket brimming with resort vibes, encapsulates early 80s city pop and fusion – ¥25,800
Green Caterpillar by Masaru Imada (new), a hidden gem covering everything from urban funk to emotional ballads – ¥4,950
Butterfly, a collaboration between jazz diva Kimiko Kasai and Herbie Hancock’s band – ¥7,150 Note: Prices vary depending on the condition of each used record. All are one-of-a-kind items and may not be in stock.
Face Records MIYASHITA PARK doesn’t just sell records—it also boasts a solid lineup of players. For vinyl newcomers, around five affordable models are always available, many with Bluetooth and other modern features.
Among them, the compact and stylish Sound Burger is a hit with international visitors. The store also carries T-shirts featuring popular artists and other music-themed merchandise. It’s a place where you can dive into Shibuya’s music culture firsthand.
Sound Burger – Compact and charming, space-saving, and popular – ¥19,800
STIR IT UP WIRELESS – Made with sustainable materials like bamboo and recycled plastic, Bluetooth-enabled – ¥34,980
WINTECH – Woodgrain design with built-in speakers, plays records right away and supports external amps – ¥13,180
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT – Bluetooth-enabled for wireless listening via speakers or headphones – ¥28,600
Also available: cool artist T-shirts that you'll want to grab on the spot.
The information contained this article was correct at the time of publication on 08/05/2025
