If you’re looking for a music venue with an energetic vibe, swing by Loft in Shinjuku for a gig you’re sure to enjoy rocking out to.
Loft - image © Florentyna Leow
There are many places in Tokyo for live gigs, but one classic go-to is Loft, located in Kabukicho. Not to be confused with design haven department store Loft, the Shinjuku Loft is a great place in Tokyo to listen to live music. This underground space has been a fixture in the Tokyo music scene for over 25 years now. And we mean literally underground - it’s a basement venue.
Loft - image © Florentyna Leow
On any given night, you’ll hear indie rock, alt-rock, and new wave music in all flavors, though the predominant genre here is really just “loud.” It makes for a fun and lively atmosphere, and you’re likely to make a new friend or five here. While Loft’s website is in Japanese, Google Translate will help in deciphering what’s on - it’s usually not too difficult.
There are drinks available at the discreetly-located bar in the corner of the basement space. What’s great at Loft is that they don’t try to force you to buy drinks, and as a bonus, it makes for a much more genteel audience than would otherwise be the case. It’s a real Tokyo gem.
English name:
Shinjuku Loft (live music space)
Japanese name:
新宿ロフト
English address:
B2 Tatehana bldg., 1-12-9 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0021
Japanese address:
〒160-0021 東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1-12-9 タテハナビルB2
Opening hours:
Varies by event
Admission:
Varies by event
Nearest Transport:
Train: 7-minute walk from the east exit of Shinjuku Station.
Telephone:
+81-3-5272-0382
Website:
Official website (Japanese)
Near To Here:
The Loft is located in Tokyo's Shinjuku district. See our complete list of things to do in Shinjuku, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Is This Place Located?
See this place on the Truly Tokyo Google map:- Open the Tokyo map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Tokyo Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
- Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals. Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport.
- If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
