KAZUYA PEE
Active as a DJ since the late 1990s, based in Sapporo.
He creates a unique, liberating groove by blending rare sounds from around the world with dance music. His work spans across Asia and Japan, performing at clubs and outdoor events, and collaborating with traditional folk music and artistic projects.
In 2020, he opened a record store specializing in World Music, “UPE MUZIKA”, in Higashikawa, Hokkaido, where he relocated.
He has contributed DJ mixes to platforms such as:
- Open Port Club (Germany)- Bangkok Community Radio (Thailand)- Norrm Radio (Indonesia)- dublab.jp (Tokyo/Sapporo)- Hole and Holland podcast (Tokyo).
He creates a unique, liberating groove by blending rare sounds from around the world with dance music. His work spans across Asia and Japan, performing at clubs and outdoor events, and collaborating with traditional folk music and artistic projects.
In 2020, he opened a record store specializing in World Music, “UPE MUZIKA”, in Higashikawa, Hokkaido, where he relocated.
He has contributed DJ mixes to platforms such as:
- Open Port Club (Germany)- Bangkok Community Radio (Thailand)- Norrm Radio (Indonesia)- dublab.jp (Tokyo/Sapporo)- Hole and Holland podcast (Tokyo).
Artist Interview
What are your musical roots?
Jamiroquai – When You Gonna Learn?
Jamiroquai's debut single. I first heard it when I was in my first or second year of junior high school, back when I thought listening to Western music made me look cool. The moment I heard it, I was completely blown away. What started as an attempt to seem sophisticated turned into a genuine obsession, and it's still one of my favorite songs to this day.
Jamiroquai's debut single. I first heard it when I was in my first or second year of junior high school, back when I thought listening to Western music made me look cool. The moment I heard it, I was completely blown away. What started as an attempt to seem sophisticated turned into a genuine obsession, and it's still one of my favorite songs to this day.
Which artists or labels are you most excited about right now?
- 1.Sam GokuI've been following them since their debut. Their music perfectly blends elements of world music, a sense of mysticism, and contemporary techno that moves the dancefloor. Above all, the sound quality is extraordinary. Every single sound is crafted so beautifully that they're essential listening for me, whether I'm DJing or simply enjoying music at home.
Higashikawa's Local Scene
What is happening in your local music scene right now?
Higashikawa is a small town of around 8,700 people, and while it doesn't yet have a well-established music scene, it's surrounded by rich nature and has a strong outdoor culture centered around camping, with more open-air events appearing each year. The town is also home to many international residents and people who have relocated there for its unique lifestyle, giving it the potential to become a place where diverse cultures intersect.
Looking at Hokkaido as a whole, you'll find outstanding parties every weekend, not only at venues like Precious Hall and PROVO in Sapporo and Bassment in Asahikawa, but also at clubs across the island. Perhaps it's because the landscape turns completely white with snow in winter, but sophisticated and atmospheric sounds seem to resonate especially well here. The scene has inherited a style of storytelling that unfolds over the course of an entire night. It's a warm, deep, and distinctive community where a new generation of DJs continues to emerge alongside its dedicated veterans.
Looking at Hokkaido as a whole, you'll find outstanding parties every weekend, not only at venues like Precious Hall and PROVO in Sapporo and Bassment in Asahikawa, but also at clubs across the island. Perhaps it's because the landscape turns completely white with snow in winter, but sophisticated and atmospheric sounds seem to resonate especially well here. The scene has inherited a style of storytelling that unfolds over the course of an entire night. It's a warm, deep, and distinctive community where a new generation of DJs continues to emerge alongside its dedicated veterans.
What local spots would you recommend?
Record Shop
MUSTA LEVY— 札幌 / Sapporo
A record shop that opened its first physical store in June 2025, located inside Low in Kita 18-jo Nishi 5-chome, Sapporo. While its main focus is house and techno, you'll find plenty of other genres as well.
Which local DJs/artists would you recommend?
OGASHAKA
ogashaka_sanIf I had to choose just one, it would be OGASHAKA. He's an exceptional DJ based in Sapporo with an incredible command of electronic music in all its forms, and he's steadily expanding his activities across Japan. He's also one of the resident DJs of Laya, a new party that launched at Precious Hall this July. He's seriously amazing.