What It’s Like to DJ in Tokyo
Tokyo is a city that pulses with energy — a place where tradition meets the future, and where every alleyway hums with its own soundtrack. As a DJ who's played sets from Paris to Medellín, stepping into Tokyo’s underground music scene was both humbling and electrifying.
A City That Breathes Music
When I arrived in Tokyo, I was already buzzing — not just from the jet lag, but from the anticipation. Tokyo is a bucket-list city for any global DJ. It’s not just about neon lights and late-night ramen. It’s about the precision, the culture, the respect for the craft. Whether you’re spinning at a high-end lounge in Shibuya or a gritty vinyl bar in Shimokitazawa, the crowd expects a journey — and they listen deeply.
My First Set in Tokyo
I had the opportunity to play a set during my trip, and it was one I won’t forget. I was intimate setting.
I leaned into international rhythms, and it resonated.
Meeting Tokyo's Local DJs
One of the most inspiring parts of the trip was meeting local Tokyo DJs. These artists are serious about their crates. Many still spin vinyl and have an encyclopedic knowledge of genres. We traded stories, techniques, and favorite digs. What surprised me most was how open they were to international sounds — especially Afro rhythms. There’s a real curiosity and respect for global music in Tokyo, which made me feel right at home.
The Vibe: Precision + Soul
Tokyo DJs are technicians. Their transitions are tight, their track selections curated with surgical care. But they also play with soul — a deep appreciation for the emotional arc of a set. It pushed me to be more intentional with every track I played.
Final Thoughts
To all the Tokyo DJs I met: thank you for the inspiration. I’ll be back.