SHOW BOAT

The Live Music Club For Everyone
[updated August 2022]

At Show Boat it takes all kinds. While the majority of what you find here is rock-based or ties in to the Koenji underground, there is no limit to genre, age, or professional level of the performers. All are entertaining and the majority have a good deal of chops (hence the venue title), but everyone is welcome; acoustic, pop, DJ, metal, noise– come one and come all!

The owner started Show Boat when she was in her 20’s– she wanted to start a music venue and was told if it’s music it should be in Koenji. Now over 20 years later, that advice proved to be spot-on. She had success with the perfect location and the perfect size– not too big or small that can fit a crowd and still always have a good view. Capacity is 220 people standing, 80 with tables, although there are always tables available, no matter the set-up. The sound system is also top-notch. It’s no wonder underground experimental music legend Keiji Haino has his yearly birthday and year-end shows every year at Show Boat.

There’s a huge alcohol menu available in English. Show Boat also holds charity events for good causes, so along with their music policy it’s definitely a place that should be serving Koenji more many years to come.

ACCESS

Writer/Photographer: Greg