Radio Cultura: A Coffee-Drinking ‘Radio Station’ Inspired by São Paulo, Now in Kikukawa

Appearing quietly in Kikukawa, Radio Cultura is a cultural micro broadcasting station where sound, art, and coffee intersect. The name pays homage to a real radio station from São Paulo, Brazil. Inside, vintage equipment from the 1970s and 1980s, including ALTEC 9844 speakers and a Yamaha GT-2000 turntable, lines the space. Drop the needle and selections of music, primarily from Japan and South America, begin to flow.

Roughly 1,000 records, all collected over many years by the owner, sit neatly on the shelves. Of particular note are the exclusive original releases available only here. The latest title, ‘DSCL-005’, is Puente, the 2023 album by HA DUO, a collaboration between Uruguayan keyboard legend Hugo Fattoruso and next-generation percussionist Albana Barrocas. The recording preserves the unmistakable magic of Fattoruso’s keyboard style, beloved since his days with Opa, while refining his harmonies and choral textures into a polished and contemporary work. Alongside other rare pressings, the album affirms the space as a base for cultural transmission and leaves visitors quietly exhilarated.

Street art, spray works, and graffiti line the walls, giving rhythm to the eye as well as the ear. Paired with mid-century furniture, the interior carries the intimacy of being invited into the owner’s home. Plans are underway for live radio recordings that will allow guests to enjoy the space as a literal broadcasting station.

Coffee plays a central role. Beans from the Kuramae roastery Leaves Coffee Roasters are brewed one cup at a time using the fully automatic hand-drip machine Poursteady. The resulting coffee harmonizes with the surrounding music and creates a richly textured moment in time.

More than a café or a record shop, this is a small station transmitting cultural frequencies from the edge of the neighborhood. With a cup in hand and your ears open, you may encounter sounds and cultures you have yet to meet.