all that jazz….For those living here in Kumamoto who sometimes have a craving for a couple of hours of live jazz, there are a few local spots that are coming back to life after the lessening of Covid restrictions which I would like to introduce over the next few days. There are a number of talented jazz musicians in Kumamoto, and most venues also offer performances by musicians from other parts of Japan on tour . Prices for an evening of music usually start around ¥2500 .
Check the posters for prices as sometimes one drink is included in the price, and sometimes the purchase of one drink is required in addition to the basic music charge. The first venue I would like to introduce is 九品寺Smile (Kuhonji). It is located in Kuhonji, down the street from Shinwa and Chinzei high schools and Kumamoto University Pharmacudical campus. During the day (closed Tuesdays) it is a restaurant with daily luncheon specials (the owner’s wife is a great cook). The irregular live schedule can be found on their facebook page. There are usually about 3 or 4 concerts a month. The owner’s policy is to provide a venue where music lovers can immerse themselves in the music.
Each concert is reservation only, easily made on their facebook messenger. If you are late, it’s no problem , but be prepared to wait outside until the song finishes as the entrance basically opens onto the stage area. Drinks are available at ¥500, but usually no food is available at music events. The venue is on the second floor, up some steep stairs. There are several coin parking lots nearby.The schedule is mainly jazz , but other genres are occasionally featured. Check out their Facebook Page, and here is the tabelog link if you are more interested in food than jazz :-)https://tabelog.com/kumamoto/A4301/A430101/43016257/?fbclid=IwAR3AQpsvkr8_2Hh3vUFW_Y_u1eG2uZE4pf37dahk6ubEqPFEM3lukoVwru0. . Photos from last Sunday’s live featuring Oita and Fukuoka musicians.
Next time I will introduce a few jazz spots downtown. (posted by liz)