-
Space Lab Yellow
Located by Nishi-Azabu crossing, Yellow spins everything from house to acid jazz, Brazilian samba to techno. Foreign DJs are sometimes spotlighted: regardless of who it is, the sound is always excellent. Look for the entrance to this inky basement space next to the coin parking-lot.
-
Space Zero
This is a 550-seat, fine-art performance venue that happens to be located centrally in Shinjuku. Space Zero is host to contemporary dance performances and experimental theatre productions. You'll find it in the basement of the Zenrōsai Kaikan building.
-
Sweet Basil 139
Sweet Basil has a large, lovely space that draws big-name domestic and international jazz acts. Performances range the gamut of the genre; check the calendar on the website for the current line-up. This classy joint is a good place to have an Italian dinner before a show; call for reservations between and Monday to Saturday.
-
Unit
This subterranean space contains a restaurant, club and bar on each descending floor. Shows are mostly big-name Japanese DJ events, but live bands also play here. Be sure to bring ID to get in.
-
What The Dickens
What the Dickens occupies the 4th floor of the Roob building, whose outstanding façade looks as if it's finished with a layer of mud, and adorned with the mirrored replica of a hummingbird. The beer and pub grub are up to snuff, and good live music and the occasional poetry reading keep things rolling.
