Tucked away in Kyoto’s Fushimi district, Kurochaya is a traditional house with a secret address, opened exclusively for special events. This hidden gem, with its one-of-a-kind atmosphere, has become a whispered secret among music lovers in the Kansai area. In the 12th edition of the series “Places to Encounter Good Music,” music critic Mitsutaka Yanagira takes us inside this captivating space.
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A New Space Growing in Over-Touristed Kyoto, Made for Ourselves
Kyoto is undeniably a unique place. Over the past few years, I’ve visited more frequently and discovered several favorite spots. Each of these places carries an atmosphere that can only be experienced in Kyoto. There’s a special charm here, something distinct that you don’t find in shops in Tokyo or Osaka.
In recent years, Kyoto has often been discussed in the context of over-tourism due to the growing number of visitors. It’s clear when walking through the busy streets that the city is filled with tourists, and I’ve heard that more places have become difficult to access. Some of my favorite music venues, too, are often crowded with tourists, making them no longer the kind of spots you can just pop into. I imagine that for the businesses themselves, there’s more to the situation than simply being pleased with the influx of customers.
As the city’s environment undergoes rapid change, it seems that more people are seriously thinking about how to continue enjoying themselves and create spaces for their own enjoyment. I’ve heard that in Kyoto, many places are now operating in a way that maintains a vibe for the local community and dedicated customers—like music spots with undisclosed addresses or “locals-only” music bars that can only be accessed through introductions from regulars. Kurochaya is one such place that fits into this context.
