What this is
City Pop Through the Decades is a curated listening and lecture event exploring the history and enduring appeal of city pop — the Japanese genre that fused Western pop, funk, and R&B with Japanese sensibilities during the 1970s and 80s. The event is hosted by Kurimoto Hitoshi, a respected music writer and curator best known as the author of 'Understanding City Pop: 100 Essential Albums.' Attendees will experience classic city pop tracks played back in pristine analog sound quality, making full use of the venue's audiophile setup. The event comes at a moment when the global city pop revival — driven by viral YouTube algorithms and international rediscovery of artists like Mariya Takeuchi and Tatsuro Yamashita — has matured into a lasting cultural movement. This is a rare chance to hear the genre discussed and presented by one of Japan's leading authorities on the subject.
Who should go
This event is ideal for music lovers with a serious interest in Japanese pop history, audiophiles who appreciate analog playback, and anyone curious about the cultural roots of the city pop revival. The atmosphere will likely be intimate and listening-focused — expect a knowledgeable, attentive crowd rather than a party vibe. Expats and tourists who have fallen down the city pop rabbit hole online will find this a genuinely enriching experience with real depth. Arrive a few minutes early to secure a good seat and get settled before the session begins.
Good to know
Payment is cash only on the day — there is no advance ticket purchase, so bring exact change or small bills to keep things smooth at the door. The ¥2,300 entry fee includes one drink, so no need to budget separately for your first beverage. 3313 Analog Heaven is a specialist analog audio venue, meaning the listening experience is central to the event — avoid arriving late as the session will likely begin promptly at 14:00. Given the intimate nature of the venue and the niche appeal of the topic, capacity is likely limited, so arriving 10–15 minutes early is advisable to guarantee entry.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.