3 days ago
Best live music venues and DJ bars in Tokyo
What is it? Near Koiwa Station in Tokyo's easternmost Edogawa ward, Bushbash has been keeping the area's music scene alive since 2009. It's since built a name for itself as a go-to venue for hardcore, metal, punk, hip hop and experimental artists.
Why we love it: Blast beats, pig squeals and spontaneous circle pits, Bushbash's live room couldn't contrast more with the tranquil Showa-era shopping street just outside its doors. The wood cabin-like space sits to the right of a lounge area, which also serves as a dancefloor, merch stand and place to rest your eardrums and grab a drink between bands. The live room fits around 100 and is serviced by speakers that can only be described as unconscionably large for a space of this size. In contrast, the lighting is decidedly modest, with four hanging bulbs and two tiny spots aimed at the stage. Just enough to make sure you can see the band – and any stray limbs that come your way when the pit suddenly opens up.
