Our idea to document the punk scene in Kōenji was born last year when we came across Pig’s Tail Punk Shop by chance.

Pig’s Tail is owned by Hori-cho who not only runs a successful shop, but is part of several bands, DJ’s and holds numerous events throughout the year. On our brief visit to the shop in 2025, we became fascinated by Hori-cho and his central role in the Kōenji punk community.

*Hori-cho performing with Cream Panda at Kōenji High*

That’s why when this project got the green light, we booked the trip to coincide with Pig’s Tail Punk Shop’s 22nd anniversary event.

Held in Kōenji High this year, the event was a full-day celebration of punk, the performing bands, and the community. Back to back performances by a total of twelve bands had us glued to the stage all day. (This is impressive but pales in comparison to the shop’s 10th anniversary where 120 bands performed over a week.)

*Brothers Yoshiya and Motoaki performing with SOBUT at Kōenji High*

I saw some of the best performances of my life this day. Many of the bands boast over twenty years of history and are scene veterans that tour regularly. Hori-cho talked of how it took him twenty years to stand on the same stage as these bands and his passion for each band shone both on and off stage.

Hori-cho dreams of holding even bigger events one day and to inspire the younger generation. With the quality of performances and the strength of the community around him, this seems to be a dream that will be fulfilled sooner rather than later.

When that time comes, we hope to be there to capture it.

Text: Ikumi Maekawa / Photos: Daniel Ågren

Pig’s Tail Punk Shop: Instagram

Kōenji High: Website

Pig’s Tail 22nd Anniversary

The legendary 20000V