The legendary 20000V
Supposedly named after the live house featured in the 1982 movie Burst City (爆裂都市) directed by Gakuryū Ishii, the original 20000V located near the Pal arcade in Kōenji was the heart of the hardcore scene in the 1990s and 2000s until a fire forced its closure in 2009.
Since 2010, 20000V has been reborn as Niman Denatsu (二万電圧) in Higashi Kōenji. It remains a place where the hardcore and underground scene thrive.
Squeezed between a supermarket and a community centre, it’s entrance is unassuming and easy to miss except for the alternative-looking crowd that flock around it.
Omae performing at Niman Denatsu
We were only at Niman Denatsu for a short time, but it was enough to leave a lasting impression.
More than anywhere else we visited during our stay, Niman Denatsu had the most underground vibe with its dark, subterranean location and a decent-sized stage with colourful lighting that elevated the mood of both the performers and the audience.
Omae performing at Niman Denatsu
While some old-timers may bemoan the loss of the original venue and the turbulence of the scene in the eighties, nineties, and early 2000s, Niman Denatsu is still delivering quality underground performances.
Just with less blood.
Omae performing at Niman Denatsu