Analog music lovers will delight in the impressive vinyl collections of these stylish, cozy spots in Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, and Cebu, which let visitors immerse themselves in their favorite tunes.
Even in a digital world where streaming services offer high-quality sounds from thousands of artists just within our fingertips, vinyl still holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate its analog nature. Its soft, grainy crackle in the background, paired with what many enthusiasts describe as an inimitably “warm” sound that can’t be found in other music formats or storage mediums. Though the best way to feel the difference is by experiencing it yourself. Whether you’re a longtime vinyl enthusiast or a beginner looking to get into the hobby, there are a number of chic spots in Asia that let their visitors listen to their impressive vinyl collections (and for some, purchase records from them) while enjoying food and beverage in an ambient environment.
Whether you’re planning your next big date, or yearning to go on a solo music journey, below are four great vinyl spots to visit:
READ ALSO: Coffee Sights: 4 Cafés In Asia Offering Unique Experiences
The Music Bar-Cave Shibuya (Tokyo, Japan)
With its cool speakeasy vibe and woody interiors, The Music Bar-Cave Shibuya is the perfect spot for night owls who want a relaxing listening experience, care of expert DJs. Along with its menu of tasty treats and beverages—including cocktails and craft beer—the bar features an impressive library of 3,000 vinyls from both new and older artists.
The bar is located at 1-15-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, and open from 6:00 PM to 3:00 AM on Mondays to Saturdays (but closed on Sundays). Its roster of DJs spin their choice of records, giving customers a new kind of vinyl experience each time. Sounds are also top notch with some of the best equipment in the industry, including Linn turntables and Tannoy Westminster Royal loudspeakers.
Vinyl Starfield (Seoul, South Korea)
Located inside the already show-stopping Starfield Suwon Library in Seoul’s Gangnam district (which is a destination worth exploring in itself), Vinyl Starfield is a must-see if you’re searching for a picturesque, unique listening experience. Inside, visitors get a breathtaking view of the library’s futuristic, modern interiors through glass windows as they select their records of choice with tasty beverages, which all come with the entrance fee.
Like all the other establishments in this list, Vinyl Starfield has a wonderful selection of vinyls spanning various genres and time periods, so there’s something for everyone. Casual listeners and audiophiles alike will enjoy the analog sounds, as the shop uses the widely-loved and trusted Audio-Technica turntables and headphones for a high-fidelity listening experience.
Slow Boat (Singapore)
Singapore also has its fair share of wonderful spots for vinyl lovers. If you prefer a more intimate, serene experience, Slow Boat at 45A Craig Rd is the place to visit. It’s the country’s first vinyl listening café, and is open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. Visitors can also book a table through Slow Boat’s website, and with an entrance fee, enjoy an hour-long listening experience with a drink of choice.
The space has hundreds of used and new records from a variety of popular artists, and even vinyls of soundtracks from beloved Studio Ghibli movies like Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle. It also sells turntables and accessories for customers who want to start building their vinyl setups.
Unity Coffee and Vinyl (Cebu, Philippines)
Filipinos need not travel very far to enjoy listening and shopping for great vinyls. Unity Coffee and Vinyl is the newest hotspot for all things analog music in Cebu City’s Don Jose Avila street. Open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, the spacious, contemporary coffee shop is a great place to enjoy beverages and snacks alongside some sweet records. A shelf of vinyls on the café’s upper floor swings open to reveal a cozy listening room where customers can peruse and try out the shop’s great collection of music.
Unity Coffee and Vinyl uses top-notch equipment as well, including Audio-Technica headphones, which it also sells together with other great accessories. The shop also has a line-up of DJs who spin their record picks while visitors lounge and bask in their unmistakable sound.
Banner photo by Jurian Kersten via Unsplash.
