5 Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Record Shops in Japan

Here We Go!
A guide to record collecting beyond Sex Pistols.

Welcome to Japan, record fans from around the world.
Japan has many record shops, and for many visitors, visiting them is one of the pleasures of the trip.

Japanese record shops often have a wide selection, and sometimes you may come across records that are not easy to find overseas.
At the same time, there are a few things worth keeping in mind so that everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.

These are not difficult rules.
As long as you show consideration for the records, the shop, and the people around you, you should be absolutely fine.

Here are five things to keep in mind when visiting record shops in Japan.

1.Do not drop records back into the bin

When you are browsing, try not to let records fall back into the bin with a heavy thud.

If they hit too hard, the bottom of the sleeve can be damaged, and the record inside can also be put under unnecessary strain.

Even if you want to look through a lot of records, there is no need to rush.
The best way is to flip through them gently and carefully with your fingertips.

Browsing quietly is also more considerate to the people around you.

2.Do not touch records that someone else has set aside

Sometimes you may see a small pile of records placed on the floor or beside a rack.
In many cases, this means someone has set them aside while deciding whether to buy them.

Even if you spot something interesting in that pile, it is better not to take it.

If someone found it first, it is best to respect that.

Once they put it back, you can always have a look.
Until then, waiting a moment is usually the best approach.

3.Put records back in the right place if you know where they came from

If you decide not to buy a record after looking at it, it is best to return it to the correct place if you know where it came from.

If it ends up in the wrong section, the next person may not be able to find it, and it also creates extra work for the shop staff.

If you are no longer sure where it belongs, it is better not to return it to a random place.
In that case, handing it to a member of staff is the safer option.

It is a small thing, but it shows consideration for the shop.

4.Do not touch the playing surface when checking a record

When checking the condition of a record or asking to listen to it, try not to touch the playing surface.

Fingerprints, oil and dirt can all cause unwanted noise.

The basic rule is simple: only touch the edge and the centre label.

If you are not sure how to hold a record properly or how to ask for a listening check, it is perfectly fine to ask a member of staff.
It is often better not to pretend that you already know.

5.Be aware of your bag and where you are standing

Some record shops in Japan have fairly narrow aisles.
When you are concentrating on browsing, it is easy to block the way without noticing.

Large backpacks and bags in particular can easily bump into other customers, so it helps to be a little careful.

It is usually better to carry your bag in front of you or keep it out of the way.

Also, if another customer is browsing right beside you, leaving a little space can make things easier for both of you.
It is always nicer when everyone can browse comfortably.

Final thoughts

The things to keep in mind at record shops in Japan are not especially complicated.

What matters most is handling records carefully and showing consideration for the shop and other customers.

If you are taking the time to look for records in Japan, it is much nicer to enjoy the experience in a respectful way.

I hope record fans from around the world will have a good time exploring record shops in Japan.

byebye👋