Shimokitazawa:Matsuyama Billiard Hall

Matsuyama Billiard

Matsuyama Billiard Hall is said to be the oldest billiard hall in all of Tokyo. Located on the south side of shimokitazawa station, this billiard house attracts all levels of billiard players including myself. There are 3 floors to this building. On the first floor is the billiard (pool) tables and also on the third floor. On the second floor are the tables without the pockets, snooker.



The atmosphere is very homely, the interior design is 1800s inspired and very cozy. There are built in benches along the wall including a fire place. There are at least five tables on the first floor also on the third floor. The level of the players is impressive while for the rest is just something you do with friends. However all levels are welcome as long as you have respect for the game.

Inside the billiard hall

The owner is a friendly man in his 70s, he is always around sometimes shooting balls with other customers. According to him its a place where most ex and current professional players hang out or practise. Under the tables you will notice bags of private billiard sticks.

If you are a first timer he will kindly offer a free history pamphlet he wrote himself in memory of his father. What I'm not too sure about is if he does have any relation to the now deceased famous Japanese Billiard player, Kinrey Matsuyama.

Despite my poor level of billiard I love hanging out in Matsuyama Billiard Hall, I always feel good afterwards. The rate is quite cheap compared to some gaming centres, costs 650yen/hour ( or 100yen/ 10 minutes) and the beer is supermarket price.

From the south exit turn right and you will see the AU phone shop, 2 doors down is the billiard hall. A green apartment-like building with the sign: Matsuyama Billiard. There are 2 entrances, in order to go to the 2nd and 3rd floor take the stairs. I recommend the first floor but it can get crowded and you have to wait for the tables.

For more information check out this site ( Japanese)
http://www.shimokitazawa.org/contents/tenpo/hyousi/billiyardmatsuyama.htm