Blue Note Tokyo

Blue Note Tokyo is a legendary jazz club and restaurant in the prestigious Aoyama district, serving as the first international branch of the famous New York Blue Note. Located in the heart of Tokyo, this establishment is rightfully considered the main jazz mecca in Japan, offering guests a unique combination of world-class music and fine dining.

The club accommodates around 300 spectators, creating an intimate and personal atmosphere where the stage is literally within arm's reach of the tables. Elegant interiors, dimmed lighting, and impeccable acoustics make every evening here a special event, allowing guests to feel a personal connection with the artists.

In addition to outstanding concerts, Blue Note Tokyo is famous for its gastronomic approach. Guests are offered a seasonal menu inspired by Japanese products and international culinary traditions, turning a visit into a full sensory journey to the sounds of live jazz.

When planning an evening at the legendary Blue Note Tokyo, we recommend checking the current concert schedule and booking a table in advance. The performance program is updated frequently, and tickets for world jazz stars in Tokyo sell out very quickly.

Up-to-date contact information and links to official resources will help you reserve your seat in the hall on time and ensure you don't miss a performance by your favorite artist.

The main reason to visit Blue Note Tokyo is the opportunity to hear live performances by world jazz legends in close proximity. Over the years, masters such as Tony Bennett, Herbie Hancock, and Chick Corea have performed here. Visitors can enjoy virtuosic improvisations while seated at cozy tables right by the stage.

Be sure to try dishes from the signature fine dining menu. The club offers exquisite seasonal delicacies, a wine list, and original cocktails that perfectly complement the musical program. It is a wonderful place for a romantic evening or a gathering of quality sound connoisseurs.

Keep a close eye on the venue's schedule: besides recognized jazz icons, you can often catch performances by rising talents. Additionally, the club regularly serves as a venue for special events related to the Blue Note Jazz Festival, expanding the boundaries of the usual musical format.

The jazz club is located in the prestigious Minami-Aoyama quarter. The easiest way to get here is by subway: the nearest station, Omotesando (Chiyoda, Hanzomon, and Ginza lines), is just a 5–7 minute leisurely walk away. You can also use Aoyama-itchome station, which is about a 10-minute walk.

If you are traveling from central areas, such as Shibuya Station, a taxi ride will take about 10 minutes. For those who prefer public transport, it is convenient to take the Ginza subway line from Shibuya to Aoyama-itchome station, which is only two stops away.

The Aoyama district is famous for its antique shops and cozy cafes, so we recommend arriving a bit early to stroll through its picturesque streets before the concert begins. Please note that parking spaces near the club are limited, so using public transportation in Tokyo is the most convenient option.

The history of Blue Note Tokyo began on November 26, 1988. The club opened on Antique Street in the Minami-Aoyama district as the first overseas project of the famous Greenwich Village chain. From the moment of its founding, it became a center of attraction for music lovers throughout Japan, providing the local public with access to top-tier stars in an intimate setting.

In 1998, the establishment moved to a new, more spacious location nearby, allowing for an increased capacity without losing its signature cozy charm. Over decades of operation, the club's stage has seen performances by icons such as Sarah Vaughan and Oscar Peterson, while Japanese jazz pianist Toshiko Akiyoshi recorded several of her landmark live albums here.

Today, the Tokyo branch is an integral part of a global musical network. It not only preserves the traditions of its New York "big brother" by combining music with haute cuisine but also actively develops the local scene, serving as a venue for large-scale jazz festivals.

For a visit to Blue Note Tokyo, it is worth setting aside 2 to 3 hours. A concert set usually lasts about 60–90 minutes; however, we suggest arriving 30–45 minutes before the performance begins. This will allow you to comfortably order drinks or dinner and fully get into the musical mood.

If you have chosen an early set on the weekend, two hours may be quite sufficient. However, for those who want to leisurely enjoy signature desserts and discuss their impressions after the final chords, it's better to budget a bit more time to experience the atmosphere without rushing.

The doors of Blue Note Tokyo are open to visitors daily, but the operating schedule depends on the day of the week. From Monday to Friday, the establishment welcomes guests from 17:00 to 22:00. On Saturday and Sunday, the club opens earlier—at 15:30—and works until 21:00.

Please note that exact operating hours and the start times of musical sets may vary depending on the specific performer and the evening's program. Before planning your visit, it is highly recommended to check the current schedule on the club's official website.

A visit to the jazz club can be complemented by a walk through the cultural attractions of the Minato district. Very nearby is the Nezu Museum, famous for its impressive collection of traditional East Asian art and a magnificent Japanese garden that offers tranquility amidst the bustling metropolis.

Also just a few minutes' walk away is the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum, dedicated to the work of one of the most prominent representatives of the Japanese avant-garde. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to feel deeper the atmosphere of Aoyama—a district where the modern culture of Tokyo harmoniously intertwines with art.