Kōenji is a district in Tokyo just a few stops west of Shinjuku. Its historical impact on Japan’s music scene, especially underground and alternative music, is undeniable. The town continues to be a haven for musicians and music enthusiasts alike despite pressures that accompany urban development.

With funding from Scandinavia-Japan Sasakawa Foundation (SJSF Sverige), Ågren Maekawa are embarking on a research trip in Kōenji, aiming to document punk communities tackling themes that resonate beyond borders.