Hyperlocal Tokyo

Located in the back of Shibuya Hyakkendori, there's a shop that's been around since 1926. It's a super old-school coffee shop with a lot of strict rules: "No photography inside," "No phone calls," "No talking," and cash only. Utada Hikaru even visited for a location shoot. I visited on a weekday night and a weekend. There are plenty of seats and I was able to get in without waiting either time. The first floor has a classic hall-like structure, while the second floor is great for enjoying music. Most people are alone, reading books or relaxing. I ordered an iced coffee. The atmosphere here is exceptional. Even though the shop was almost full, no one was talking. Despite the strict rules, it's rare to find a space with such a high level of civility. The space and facilities were incredible. It was such a wonderful experience that it felt like I was attending a classical concert. I'm really bummed that I can't take pictures, but whenever I have some time in Shibuya, I always end up here. The unique comfort of this place is truly one of a kind. Come alone with a book you've been wanting to read. You'll feel your soul being nourished. I'll be back. Thank you for the meal.

Dogenzaka in Shibuya Ward. A 'meikyoku kissa' (literally 'famous music cafe') is a type of cafe that plays classical music while serving tea, coffee, and light meals. Meikyoku Kissa Lion, established in 1926, plays music according to a pre-determined program. The program is listed in a leaflet given to customers upon arrival. When I visited, Mozart was playing. I don't remember the exact song title. The interior is very dark, and photography and loud talking are prohibited. The focus is firmly on listening to the music. While I don't usually listen to classical music, I spent an hour here, putting away my phone and simply enjoying the music. It's nice to have that kind of time, isn't it?

A classic, long-standing music cafe nestled in the depths of Shibuya's Dogenzaka. The aged wooden building features a grand staircase leading to the second floor, where large speakers line the walls. Both floors are designed with seating facing the speakers. A space for quiet, solitary enjoyment. The second floor offers a greater sense of solitude. Conversation is prohibited. Enjoy a cup of coffee, which is reasonably priced, and stay as long as you like. Requests are accepted outside of set hours. Lately, there has been a noticeable increase in foreign visitors. It hasn't changed a bit since my student days. It's a welcome sight. 5.0

I stopped by after work for the first time in a few years. I enjoyed the grand atmosphere and the superb sound quality of the classical music. The coffee was also very delicious, and it was a relaxing time.

While the exterior might seem a bit intimidating, most patrons are solo diners. I was seated on the second floor on this particular visit. Photography and talking are prohibited inside. I ordered a lemon squash (¥820). Classical music played at a high volume (the music seems to change daily), but it wasn't disruptive. The lighting was also somewhat dim. This isn't a place to enjoy conversation, but rather a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and quietly enjoy your time with music. It was surprisingly comfortable, and I found myself getting sleepy. Many people seem to linger here, and I can understand why.