Japan's Hidden Listening Bars: SHeLTeR | Resident Advisor x Asahi Super Dry

Subscribe to the RA KZbin channel: bit.ly/1wNHXzk
Yoshio Nojima has been refining the soundsystem at SHeLTeR, an audiophile venue on the quiet outskirts of Tokyo, for 30 years. It's a never-ending quest in the pursuit of one humble goal: to share special musical experiences with friends.
Produced by Resident Advisor in partnership with Asahi Super Dry Beer.
[Series] Japan's hidden listening bars
We are exploring Japan's rich culture of listening bars and audiophile venues. It's a culture rooted in the joy of discovering music, and listening to that music in the best possible environment-that means precision-made speakers, amps, turntables and mixers. Tucked away in basements, back-alleys and high-rise buildings, these bars come in different shapes and sizes, but they are united by their pursuit of quality, with owners endlessly fine-tuning their audio setups to create an enriching experience for anyone who visits. These are wonderful settings for people to share their love of music, serving as a "third place"-somewhere to unwind in between their time at work and home. Though they're the result of long-standing traditions, listening bars offer a glimpse into progressive Japan, one of the world's most vibrant places for music discovery.
Read the full feature on RA:
ra.co/listeningbars
Credits:
Director - Sam King
Director of Photography - James Latimer
Additional Cinematography - Hans Bobànovits
Executive Producers - Kate Mullins, Laura Akam, Patrick Nation, Aaron Coultate
Producers - Tomoko Naoshima, Midori Hayakawa
Camera Assistants - Anthony Rilocapro, Kai Mariella
Sound - Steven Lefever, Paul Doroshevich
Editors - Thomas Beswick, Sam King
Translation - Robert Zetzsche
Colourist - Adam Clarke
Dubbing Mixer - Guy Clarke
Music in order of appearance:
7FO - Moment (Metron Records)
Synth Sisters - Sunrise Guide Us (17853 Records)
Moss - Coincidence (Unreleased)
Miyako Koda - Io (Chee Shimizu re-edit) (17853 Records)
Version Brothers - Untitled (Unreleased)
Miyako Koda - Sleep In Peace (In the Shadow remix) (17853 Records)
Synth Sisters - Silver Dust (17853 Records)

[@djgizmoe]

Reminds me why I miss living in Japan. For some, there's a real pride in dedication to the details of an artistic aesthetic, whether it be traditional or modern.

[@anodyne57]

And then there's the expensive drinks that automatically accompany the experience, but it pays the rent, and the dj probably...

[@Morphinos]

anodyne57 thats what i was constantly thinking. Those drinks must cost some dough

[@djstatyk1540]

And the car culture😍

[@alexcarter8807]

I was thinking this today. In the US when people had factory jobs, they hated them. It was considered insulting, below your true potential etc. But if you dedicate yourself to doing even a simple job well, then it is something to take great pride in. I like to think whoever made, for instance, my Pilot mechanical pencil, took great pride in making it so well. Or my Iwatani stove I like so much.

[@CarrotConsumer]

@@alexcarter8807 Pride doesn't stop something from being monotonous. No one takes pride in creating mechanical pencils.

[@MrBorisbug]

what makes Japanese people interesting is they are "students" of whatever interests them, not just having a general knowledge, they really study and know the material

[@CarrotConsumer]

Yeah, the Japanese are literally the only people that do that and no one else.

[@erichdoerr6247]

Very well said

[@Conn30Mtenor]

They go all in.

[@giraffejuice]

@@Conn30Mtenor I feel that's the best way to describe it.

[@DMVHouseRadioOne]

I love everything about Japan including my Wife! We may move back there in a few more years. Okinawa!

[@Rubmaster]

This needs to grow. More Bars like this please!

[@DJDanceClassic]

yes, I want one that plays underground dance music from 1980-1986 , you know the best dance music before house music fucked it all up

[@Hoopla10]

I don't know, maybe you could start one.

[@isaactorres5908]

@@DJDanceClassic OG house is fire🔥

[@BulletWhizza]

Great cinematography and an especially great soundtrack. That really elevated the video for me. Amazing work RA!

[@darkangel67]

I'm living also in the same city right now (Hachioji)...can even see where my apartment at 5:12...never knew there's a like that here...maybe i could go and check it out sometime

[@garrettk7166]

Please do. This is intriguing. I don't live in Japan, and thus have no way to visit. Would love to hear what it's like

[@daviddiaz872]

no brainer

[@inef85]

report back!!

[@ZoidZoidZoidberg]

You must!

[@Dr_Lucozade]

Yeah! I used to live there in 2016/17!

[@yuunashiki]

I really like Japanese bars, they are somewhat similar to Melbourne bars. Though they have very unique DJs, rare drinks, & nice equipments compare to here. This makes me miss PROVO, a bar & nightclub in Sapporo. DJs from different cities came to play with their own styles. Music is different with each DJ, experiemental, can be from indie to upbeat, but ultimately they sound good, easy to chill. When I was there in April, The Sun is already up at 4am, but DJ still going. and we chilled together till 8am. Went back to hotel, an hr later the DJs called me to come join them to an onsen. We rented a car, got there, chat and whined about how sleepy we are, then back home, sushi train with them later that night. Ended our night at SappoLodge, & at PROVO again. Since it's Monday, no event so no one were there but me, the DJs, and the bartender on one table. Then they took turn DJed some soft indie beats. Back to Tokyo, then Melbourne next day. Had a great time. Recommend people who are into audio to check out bars that have DJs visit often, or have good sound system.

[@abbotsful]

oh Yuuna, I miss PROVO too! Ryuta, taka and Emi and everyone, so nice. I hope you get to Precious Hall up the road near Odori park one day if you haven't yet. It is the best sound space I have ever been to, really lovingly crafted, their tagline is 'music brings us all together'. Sappo lodge is cool too

[@mfn1563]

Do they actually make money?

[@kaerustation]

I've always had dream of a place like that in my town..

[@enricodragoni]

go kalt :V

[@bobdigitally]

Make it so

[@os_oz]

you and me both my friend, you and me both.

[@cherrybansx7398]

still nothing cool in my hometown

[@vxncnt]

@@bobdigitally if it was that easy lmao

[@ubacow7109]

An audiophiles dream hangout spot

[@TheInstitution]

It looks like a venue set in Cowboy Bebop's universe. 🚀

[@W0LF2612]

exactly.

[@jt3013]

Uch, yes. The feels

[@nobordersnoflags9905]

It is crazy to me to me that anyone could dislike this.

[@scrums4748]

Most dislikes are by mistake

[@kenneththompson8933]

People who don't know how to "listen" to music.

[@randomdude7384]

The type of place I'd love to spend my life in

[@Lawrence-L]

Same dude !

[@jareknowak8712]

+1

[@randomdude7384]

@@Lawrence-L Deadass there are mad places like this one out there in Tokyo, hope they cover them as well

[@randomdude7384]

@@Lawrence-L The son Chee Shimizu is the dude, I've been buying records from him for over 5 years, most def the type of dude everybody should fw

[@Lawrence-L]

@@randomdude7384 I'll check this out for sure, would you also have some links to share ? Thanks.

[@ARE_YOU_SICK_OF_YT_CENSORSHIP]

1:44 this is like tea ceremony for audiophiles

[@kacperuminski1547]

Turning on a system is certainly very "ceremonious."

[@theNickRYG]

I think i just found what i want to do for a living. Eventually.

[@ricktroutman5059]

Nick You yes

[@xXxXcrosbykidXxXx]

We got 3 of us so far, lets make a union

[@mihaicalincosariu]

Four

[@abeautifulcity3301]

Do what?

[@HaseooPoE]

5

[@danzena4059]

I've been here! This place is right on and groovy! It may come off as pretentious to some but its also a place where people really care about the music. No annoying drunk, bros and hoes screaming to repetitive top 40 bullshit at some run of the mill "Irish Pub" or "Crazy Loco Tequilla" spots you see the world over nowadays. Its a place where people really come for the music, to have their drink, chill, share their love for the songs that are playing or where you'll discover new tunes that'll stick with you. And the people actually have great conversations about music! Definitely groovy people here but its definitely for a more chill, mature crowd.

[@fritz3802]

Dan Zena where? I can’t find it online anywhere ... in Tokyo now

[@danzena4059]

@@fritz3802 You have to take the the train to Hachioji. It's deep in Tokyo, not in the main wards of Tokyo. I think it's the Chuo Line if I can remember. And when you get off at Hachioji, you have to walk a little bit. It's in a quiet area.

[@fritz3802]

Dan Zena ah ok... there must be a location online somewhere just can’t find it..

[@danzena4059]

@@fritz3802 www.at-shelter.com/ Check this out

[@Afterhand]

We know why we're here

[@randomdude7384]

The Illest place sound-wise is the legendary Precious Hall in Sapporo, where David Mancuso used to play and where the very first Japanese The Loft party took place

[@danielwilson2221]

Reading the comments looking for a precious hall reference.

[@randomdude7384]

@@danielwilson2221 not sure the owner would be down to make a vid bout that place, it's the epitome of underground

[@michaelserrano9334]

Love this content, RA. Thank you. Gonna need to listen to Version Brothers’ music when it’s released!

[@boot2themoon]

A dream I’ve always had. I’m glad I’m not the only one.

[@twilightcapers]

Thanks for this, really enjoyed it.

[@EGlideKid]

Very mellow. Details are important and there is beauty in them. Everything is done precisely and with great care and thought. I think I would like Japan very much. Arigato.

[@ninetofiverecordings]

Beautiful video. Thank you RA.

[@eddiehousemusic]

Beautiful. Reminds me of the Loft in NY, David Mancuso style.

[@pyrumid5673]

Thank you for sharing such a very nice adress and experience. A great video with construction and significant development, enhanced by excellent shots.

[@dadanardi5541]

the content and production is top notch

[@LorisRavera]

Really nice video! Glad to see these longer-form videos coming back

[@suncity22001]

blessed are we that have discovered the delights of electronic music. i love bleep and boomkat shopping sprees.

[@tinashesibeko1]

Thank you for this🖤

[@elissitdesign]

The whole country of Japan is simply amazing. Beautiful people; beautiful culture. This video captures a small segment of their perfection.

[@elissitdesign]

nemaminika Apparently you’re capable of an extremely stupid comment.

[@Merlock100]

Does anybody know the song at 3:14? I know it's supposed to be "Moss - Coincidence (Unreleased)" acording to the music list, but I can't find it anywhere whether I look on youtube, spotify, soundcloud or try to shazam it.

[@nSpiraliArchitectb]

What an amazing piece. Thank you RA for producing content of this quality and uniqueness.

[@juergenbranz]

beautiful! thank you!!

[@Aftersyx]

Awesome content RA. And big up to the SHeLTeR people!

[@javidmusicparty]

i gotta go!!!! so siiick. thanks for making this film!

[@paulf.5261]

Looks like the Tea ceremony has evolved🤷‍♂️ I like it 🙂🙏

[@odysseasg4220]

I'm sold!

[@chalexen2862]

"Bocchi the Rock" brought me here. I guess I was expecting too much from the bar to somewhat look like its counterpart "Starry." Still. Good music is good music.

[@judeylanan2320]

It isn't the same location actually, the bar that starry is based off of, "Shelter", is based in Shimokitazawa, the interior is the exact same as it is in the anime, you can find photos on google if you look up "Shimokitazawa shelter"

[@chalexen2862]

@@judeylanan2320 Oh wow I didn't know there are more than one Shelters in Japan. Thank you very much.

[@mr.nemesis6442]

Starry is based on this bar. I think the anime is free advertising for this bar, bet it got real busy after the anime got popular.

[@CopeLtda2]

A place like SHeLTeR is my future goal, the reason I work my ass off 24/7. Much respect for each one of these gentlemen!

[@mfn1563]

Did you ever get to your goal?

[@bluein_]

How's your journey going?

[@dudlowdouglas2893]

A wonderful documentary about an important cultural development!

[@reptilespantoso]

wonderful :-) I'm happy to know this exists.

[@selfactualizer2099]

The hidden final level for musicians

[@leeconnelly6364]

Theres no place quite like japan they are a fascinating people.

[@Spookyduke1]

so chill

[@pryere]

I am looking forward to my pilgrimage to this magical place.

[@djhaloeight]

Technics 1200s in the booth! Can’t mess with a classic.

[@llamapie24]

Keep up the incredible quality RA

[@mrvalenz7990]

This is the place I always wanted. A place where they play variety of music. 🎧🎷🎸🎹🎺🎻📻

[@DeathofaShade]

It's weird how it is always so hard to find.

[@mrvalenz7990]

yeah but the hard ones are the best. 🤘

[@Zaqwilson1]

beautiful people peacefully bars

[@acdc2468]

Japanese take a concept and execute it beyond perfection. Their continued pursuit of excellence is both inspiring and terrifying. They embody the human spirit.

[@AK-gt6om]

And that's exactly what makes it heaven on earth for any detail oriented person.

[@babylonsystem7793]

beautiful

[@moisefpsound]

0:30 what a beautiful disc BGM, fist time to listening, thank you :D

[@Moskalus]

Never been to Japan, but they have this kind of bar in Seoul too, called Sloth Incheon. Dope place!

[@TreyPrankz]

WORD?

[@vitorrompante4564]

What about the track at 3:29 @moskalus? Moss - Coincidence (Unreleased)? i heard that one before whos that guy?!

[@nattyphysicist]

Inspirational

[@Ishijah1]

Very interesting concept.

[@KOLTERCOLOGNE]

What a great Feature from RA ! Love these little articles/videos

[@ricktroutman5059]

Wow! Yes! Look at these comments. Shelter should do audio/video broadcasts of listening sessions.

[@Drdoombrain]

Just back from tokyo, would have been cool to go here.

[@coryclark9336]

If I ever make it to Japan I am DEFINITELY going to that place

[@djPriDi]

real inspiration!

[@wendywendy646]

Awesome Man

[@crisbrackett2067]

Wonderful idea

[@auliaaulia8717]

The atmosphere is so amazing.

[@robert__]

So so so DOPE

[@Omrie69]

What a wonderful insight into bar owners that take great sound seriously, wish the places where i DJ had the same level of passion and enthusiasm.

[@LaurianGridinoc]

I'm going to try to find this place next time in Tokyo, hmmm, I guess in December

[@jimihendrixx11]

Wow. Would be great to visit just once or chill with the Version Brothers & Yoshio.

[@tanganthony4113]

Yo please release those unreleased tracks asap! Great documentary!

[@thetwopointslow]

Wonderful video

[@L4wr3nc3810]

This. This is what my dream job is.

[@arithmetik]

I love this series. We need more of these videos.

[@someuncertainsir]

Awesome.

[@juliusd.2541]

What a whimsical place! I love everything about this.

[@popstage101]

Beautiful documentary and great musical and friendly space - concept. Very inspiring to find people like this out there in rural japan

[@niilo2852]

These people are approaching PEAK cool

[@garrettchef]

In my opinion, the Japanese culture is 50 years ahead of ours. We are all caught up in this rat race that destroys our soul and they are finding the beauty in the simplicity of life, Sushi, bonsai , tai chi, gardens etc.

[@rgrtnyjjc]

Garrett Schendowich I think the Japanese are very much caught up in the rat race, it’s well known that many people put in large amounts of overtime and 70 or 80 hour work weeks are not uncommon. It has been recognised that people have died from overwork to the point that there is even word in Japanese language which refers to this: Karōshi

[@CarrotConsumer]

Japan is infamous for its "salary man" culture that leads many to suicide.

[@SayuriYaki]

Reminds my much of how Murakamis protagonists are in love with jazz bars.

[@PaulBoos]

Liked the highlighting of YMO in the beginning...

[@joshlockie9285]

I was a resident at a local martini lounge every Wednesday in Canada. Very similar vibes.

[@BrilliantBenGaming]

I've just been transported to a new world

[@theloniuspoon]

effortlessly cool and unapologetically himself, when im old i want to feel as good as this guy does about music and culture

[@justadrivertube]

Chee shimizuさん、boilerで聴いて一目惚れした。 定期的にリスニングパーティやってるんだ。 八王子遠いけど山行く前に行ってみようかな。

[@delukxy]

Everywhere you go people want to hide themselves in noisy bars and clubs. Here they can discover themselves by being quiet, and sharing thoughts with other like minded souls. Economics means that these Japanese Jazz bars are usually tucked away in low rent districts. That in a lot of ways adds to their attractiveness. The till isn't very full at the end of the day but the clientele can usually afford a few extra Yen on the bill. SHeLTeR is very cool.

[@Melophile74]

I've got to say, I appreciate being able to hear and listen. Thank you for this. Now, to search for new music...

[@rogerk2049]

Thank you for the english captions and the quiet atmosphere. Nice idea in a boisterous world.

[@jtrskaos]

Thanks.

[@martinandersson9712]

Please do more coverages of these types of "clubs", it's so refreshing to get a glimpse of the future and the world of the untainted. Where music, art and technology get the room they all deserve and where they can breath freely. Superbly done 👍

[@AlaskanAndie]

YESSSS!!! YOU GOT IT... SINK INTO THE 🎶MUSIC 🎶 AND YOU'LL BE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT WHAT YOU FIND!!! IT'S A WONDERFUL PLACE TO GO AND... "JUST BE"!!!

[@Lawrence-L]

Well, now I know where is my next destination

[@simondemeule3934]

Everyone featured in this video have such a humble and laid back mood. I wish I could hang out at a place like this.

[@winterkarasu7560]

..SHeLTeR - maybe one day i can visit the place.

[@islandofgoodvibes]

great episode RA! Art of listening music...

[@SileDevil]

what a great documetary

[@adambutler2465]

Makes me want to visit Tokyo even more.

[@unit333angel]

I must go and visit this listening bar next time in jp~ what a cool concept!!

[@_WayneTheWizard_]

Really hoping that this movement reaches europe soon

[@antoin1888]

It's weird though that this isn't more of a thing. It's such a simple idea

[@steveg219]

I want to visit the Shelter!!

[@baconology3065]

I hope next time I find a listening shelter, that I meet you there.

[@lucywucyyy]

id kill to visit one of these places

[@themadscientest]

This is both very Japanese and very universal, the great appreciation for art is deeply rooted in the culture and spirit of Japan but the universal, yet the language of music and the need for a place filled with people that just get what you are into is a universal human desire.

[@onewithstache3639]

İt's basically a chill lounge