Music Festival Guide 2018

Muro Festival
This Tokyo music festival hosts local bands including Ajisai, Civilian and Bentham for a full weekend of rock ‘n’ roll while overlooking Odaiba’s harbor.
July 21-22
Odaiba Outdoor Special Venue, Tokyo

Fuji Rock Festival
Japan’s most famous summer music festival invites world-class artists of all genres in the mountains of Niigata; this year the lineup includes Bob Dylan, Kendrick Lamar, Skrillex, Odesza, Years & Years, MGMT, Jack Johnson, N.E.R.D. and Kodo.
July 27-29
Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata

Rock in Japan Festival
Not one, but two, weekends of Rock in Japan Festival, a popular rock and pop concert, will be held at this breezy seaside park
Aug. 4-5 / Aug. 11-12
Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki

Rising Sun Rock Festival
Camp out in the port city of Otaru for two days of non-stop music by local artists including Orange Range, UVERworld, Ego-Wrappin’ and Okamoto’s. There is also a wide selection of booths selling Hokkaido’s famous local produce, delicious seafood and craft beer.
Aug. 10-11
Ishikari Bay New Port, Hokkaido

Summer Sonic
The urban alternative to the Fuji Rock Festival features some of the world’s top pop and rock bands. This year’s international lineup includes Chance the Rapper, Beck, Marshmello, Shawn Mendes, Paramore, Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park, Queens of the Stone Age, Walk the Moon, Nickelback, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and more.
Aug. 18-19
Makuhari Messe, Chiba and Maishima, Osaka

Tokyo Jazz Festival
Attracting world-famous jazz artists, this festival has grown to become one of Japan’s largest international festivals. The event is held at two venues in Tokyo. Check out the website for details.
Aug. 31, Sept. 1-2
Yoyogi Park and NHK Hall, Tokyo

Sunset Live 2018
It may be September but you can still enjoy summer vibes down in Kyushu! Kyushu’s most popular outdoor festival is held next to the beach with campgrounds and play areas for kids
Sept. 1-2
Keya Itoshima, Fukuoka

New Acoustic Camp
This acoustic-only music festival in Gunma’s mountains is ideal for families, with plenty of craft and outdoor workshops and kid-friendly activities.
Sept. 15-16
Minakami Kogen Resort 200, Gunma

Labyrinth
Japan’s pre-eminent outdoor techno event features a “DJ teepee” and an impressive sound and light system. Tickets are limited and go quick for this epic dance party in Niigata’s mountains.
Sept. 22-24
Naeba Greenland, Niigata

Asagiri Jam
Nicknamed the “real Fuji Rock” for its idyllic location at the foot of Mt Fuji, this music festival is a laid-back two days of camping, rock, Indie and dance music by international and local artists. Workshops, morning yoga and activities for children are held around the two main stages.
Oct. 6-7
Asagiri Arena, Shizuoka

Photo: Uchu Taishi Star