Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Music Festivals for First-Timers

Enjoy Japan’s Summer Events and Yamanashi’s Best Local Fests

When it comes to summer in Japan, it’s all about events, fireworks, traditional festivals, and music fests!
Among these, music festivals have become especially popular in recent years. They feature not only top Japanese artists but also many world-renowned international performers, allowing visitors to experience multiple genres of music all in one place.

In this guide, we’ll help first-time festival-goers discover how to enjoy Japan’s music festivals safely and fully—from what to expect to which events are the most iconic across the country.

Later in the article, we’ll spotlight music festivals in Yamanashi Prefecture, where you can combine live performances with sightseeing around Mt. Fuji and the area’s beautiful natural scenery.

We’ll also introduce highly rated hotels near festival venues, perfect for those looking for comfort and convenience during their stay.

By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to dive into Japan’s music scene like a pro—and turn your trip into an unforgettable summer adventure!

First-Timer’s Guide: How to Prepare for a Music Festival in Japan

Understand the Types of Festivals

In Japan, music festivals generally fall into two main categories: outdoor festivals and indoor festivals—each offering a distinct experience and requiring different preparation.

Outdoor festivals are all about freedom and nature. You can enjoy live performances surrounded by open skies, mountains, and fields. However, since weather and temperature changes are common, being well-prepared is essential.

Pack smart with items like a raincoat, hat, sunscreen, portable chair, warm clothing, and mobile battery.
These essentials help you stay comfortable during long hours outdoors and sudden weather changes.

On the other hand, indoor festivals are held inside large venues or arenas.
They offer dynamic lighting and sound systems, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the performance without worrying about the weather.
They’re perfect for those who prefer a more controlled and powerful indoor experience.

However, since ventilation can sometimes be limited and crowds dense, be mindful of heat exhaustion and hydration.
Drink water regularly, take short breaks, and pace yourself to enjoy the music safely.

By understanding the characteristics of each type of festival and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a comfortable, fun, and memorable experience.

Check the Dates and Location

Before attending any music festival, make sure to confirm the schedule and venue details.
Most major festivals in Japan take place during August and September, which also happens to be typhoon season—so sudden weather changes are common.

Because events may be rescheduled or relocated due to weather or natural conditions, it’s wise to check the official website or social media channels regularly for updates.

Festival venues often get crowded and congested, especially near opening time, so plan to arrive early and allow extra travel time.
Being well-prepared means you can stay relaxed and enjoy the festival to the fullest when the day comes.

Check the Artist Lineup

Of course, the highlight of any festival is the artists performing live!
Lineups change every year, and each festival features a unique mix of Japanese and international performers.

To make the most of your experience, check the official lineup in advance and create a plan around the acts you want to see.
But don’t just stick to your favorites—discovering new artists and genres is one of the best parts of attending a festival in Japan!

Before you go, study the timetable to plan your movement between stages efficiently.
You can also listen to the artists’ songs or watch past live performances to enhance your excitement and connection with the music.

With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to experience Japan’s music festivals like a true fan!

How to Fully Enjoy a Music Festival in Japan (Beginner’s Guide)

Feel the Music with Your Whole Body

A live concert is more than just listening to music — it’s about sharing the same energy between the artists on stage and the crowd.
The powerful performances, the lights, and the cheers blend together to create a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere that no recording can replicate.

At a music festival, you might hear a familiar song performed live for the first time or discover a new artist who instantly becomes your favorite.
Each performance brings new excitement, and that’s why many fans keep coming back year after year — there’s always something new to experience.

Enjoy the Festival Food (“Fes-meshi”)

One of the highlights of any Japanese festival is the food stalls, known as “Fes-meshi.”
At outdoor festivals, you’ll spend hours under the sun, so it’s important to stay hydrated and replenish salt through food.

Festival menus often include savory options like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) or steak rice bowls, which taste even better in the heat.
You’ll also find a wide variety of dishes — from hearty favorites like ramen and yakisoba to vegan-friendly meals and colorful Instagram-worthy treats such as fruit smoothies and cream sodas.

Another big attraction is the local gourmet experience unique to each region.
For example, at Yamanashi’s popular festival “Sweet Love Shower,” you can enjoy local specialties like venison burgers and Yoshida Udon, giving you the chance to savor the region’s flavors while soaking up the festival atmosphere.

Discover Art and Photo Spots

Japanese music festivals are not just about sound — they’re also visual celebrations of creativity and art.
Many festivals feature unique installations, artistic sculptures, and photo zones throughout the venue, making the experience immersive for both eyes and ears.

You’ll find colorful murals, dreamlike light displays, and Instagrammable photo spots that perfectly match each festival’s theme.
Don’t forget to capture the moment — sharing your festival photos on social media is a great way to preserve your memories and inspire others to join the fun next year!

Popular Music Festivals in Japan for First-Timers

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL | Niigata

The FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, commonly known as Fuji Rock, is one of Japan’s “Big Three” music festivals and the largest outdoor music event in the country.

Although it’s now held at the Naeba Ski Resort in Niigata Prefecture, the very first Fuji Rock actually took place at Fujiten Snow Resort (formerly Fujitenjinyama Ski Resort) in Yamanashi Prefecture — right near Mt. Fuji!

This legendary festival blends nature and music, offering a unique atmosphere where attendees can also camp on-site and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Fuji Rock is also famous for featuring world-class international artists alongside Japanese acts.
In past years, global icons such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers have headlined the event, igniting the crowd with unforgettable performances.

For 2025, the spotlight is on the return of the acclaimed American rock band Vampire Weekend, performing for the first time in three years — generating huge excitement among fans.

ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL | Chiba

Another of Japan’s “Big Three,” the ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL (also called “Rockin’”) is a massive open-air festival showcasing mainly Japanese artists across a wide range of genres.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024, Rock in Japan continues to feature some of the most popular acts from Japan’s music scene — from chart-topping rock bands to pop groups and even idol performers.
It’s an ideal event for those looking to experience modern Japanese music culture up close.

In 2025, the lineup will include major Japanese artists such as RADWIMPS alongside global K-pop sensations like IVE, making it one of the most diverse and exciting editions yet.

SUMMER SONIC | Chiba & Osaka

SUMMER SONIC, affectionately known as “Summer Sonic” or “Sonic”, is one of Japan’s Big Three music festivals and among the most anticipated outdoor events of the year.

Held simultaneously in Tokyo and Osaka, the festival features different lineups at each venue, offering two unique experiences depending on where you attend.

Interestingly, the very first Summer Sonic was held at Fuji-Q Highland in Yamanashi Prefecture, near Mt. Fuji — a fun fact many fans don’t know!
Since then, the festival has grown in scale, attracting top global artists every year.

In 2025, the headliner will be none other than Alicia Keys, the 17-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, returning to Japan for the first time in 12 years — making this edition truly unmissable.

RISING SUN ROCK FESTIVAL | Hokkaido

The RISING SUN ROCK FESTIVAL, often called “Rising Sun”, is Japan’s premier all-night outdoor music festival, set against the breathtaking natural backdrop of Hokkaido.

Festivalgoers can enjoy tent and auto camping, while indulging in local festival food — from Hokkaido’s famous Jingisukan (grilled mutton) to other regional specialties.
It’s the perfect blend of music, food, and nature, offering an unforgettable open-air experience.

In 2025, the lineup will feature some of Japan’s most iconic artists, including ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.

Sweet Love Shower | Yamanashi

Sweet Love Shower, affectionately known as “Labu-sha”, is a beloved music festival held in Yamanashi Prefecture, right at the foot of Mt. Fuji.

What makes this festival special is its stunning fusion of music and nature — where live performances unfold amid majestic lake and mountain scenery.
Guests can also enjoy camping and outdoor activities within the venue, making it a perfect balance between relaxation and excitement.

The 2025 lineup will feature beloved Japanese artists such as aiko and RIP SLYME, bringing fun, upbeat energy that perfectly matches the open-air vibe.

Enjoy Music and Sightseeing Together: Recommended Festivals in Yamanashi

Kofu Jazz Street | Kofu City

Held across four live houses in downtown Kofu, the Kofu Jazz Street offers a unique, walkable music experience where visitors can wander freely between venues while enjoying live jazz performances.

What makes this event truly special is its intimate atmosphere — you can experience world-class jazz up close, surrounded by a warm, local vibe that reflects the city’s laid-back charm.

With opportunities to enjoy local cuisine and sake while listening to live music, this festival promises an unforgettable cultural evening for both jazz lovers and curious travelers alike.

【Near Recommended Hotel】Shiro-no-Hotel Kofu

Located just a 1-minute walk from JR Kofu Station, Shiro-no-Hotel Kofu stands near the historic Kofu Castle Ruins, offering a perfect balance of modern comfort and local heritage.

Opened in 2020, this elegant hotel features a natural hot spring bath on the 13th floor, where guests can soak while admiring stunning views of Mt. Fuji and Kofu Castle.

Inside, guests can enjoy immersive spaces that reflect Yamanashi’s rich traditions and nature, including a historical gallery and a wine tasting corner showcasing premium local vintages.

The hotel’s highly rated breakfast, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is also a favorite among guests — making it an ideal choice for couples or anyone seeking a refined and memorable stay in Kofu.

Django Camp | Kai City

Django Camp is a one-of-a-kind outdoor music festival celebrating the energetic and soulful sounds of Gypsy Jazz.
Set against the backdrop of Yamanashi’s lush nature, it offers a vibrant open-air experience where music, food, and community come together under the stars.

Participants can enjoy live performances of European traditional music while gathering around barbecues and campfires, feeling the rhythm and warmth of every note.
The festival’s passionate melodies and lively atmosphere create an unforgettable sense of connection and joy.

For those seeking both excitement and relaxation, sauna-equipped accommodation plans are also available — allowing guests to unwind while staying close to nature.

【Near Recommended Hotel】Northland Campers Village

The highlight of Django Camp is that you can enjoy live music right from the campsite itself — a rare experience even among outdoor festivals.

The venue offers various lodging styles, including wagon-style cabins that look straight out of a classic Western movie and auto-camping sites where guests can park their cars directly beside their tents.

It’s the perfect destination not only for outdoor enthusiasts, but also for anyone who wants to fully experience the harmony of music and nature in one place.

GIANT LOOP FES. | Kofu City

GIANT LOOP FES. is a locally beloved music festival organized by THE NO EAR, a popular band from Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture.

Held just a 15-minute walk from Kofu Station, this event offers both great accessibility and a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere, making it easy for visitors to drop by while sightseeing in the city.

Though small in scale, GIANT LOOP FES. stands out for its intimate vibe — the distance between artists and the audience is refreshingly close, allowing for direct interaction and shared energy throughout the performances.

It’s the perfect place to discover new artists and explore music genres you might never have experienced before, all within a friendly, open-air setting in the heart of Kofu.

【Near Recommended Hotel】Dormy Inn Kofu

Newly renovated in February 2025, Dormy Inn Kofu is a stylish, comfort-oriented hotel located near Kofu Station, offering the only auto Löyly sauna (self-steam sauna) in the area.

Each guest room features a modern, calming design and Simmons beds, ensuring an exceptionally comfortable sleep after a full day of music and exploration.

The hotel’s open-air bath offers panoramic views of Kofu City and the surrounding mountains, providing a serene way to unwind in the evening.

At breakfast, guests can enjoy a Japanese-Western buffet along with local specialties such as Houtou, Yamanashi’s signature noodle stew — a flavorful dish that perfectly represents the region.

SAWAGI FESTIVAL | Hokuto City

The SAWAGI FESTIVAL is an energetic dance music event held beside a vast, scenic waterfront in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture.
Here, festivalgoers can enjoy non-stop music from morning until night, surrounded by pristine nature and refreshing mountain air.

Set deep within the mountains, it’s a rare chance to unplug from daily life and fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of music and the outdoors.

Another highlight? The festival is pet-friendly, meaning you can bring your dog and enjoy the experience together!

Accommodation options include comfortable bungalows and open camping areas, where you can create your own outdoor lifestyle while soaking in the sound and scenery.
For those who love both music and adventure, this is the perfect festival getaway.

【Near Recommended Hotel】Village Hakushu

One of the best parts of SAWAGI FESTIVAL is that the venue itself doubles as an accommodation site, letting you stay right where the music happens.

Situated at an altitude of 1,130 meters, this beautiful area lies at the foot of Mt. Kaikomagatake in the Southern Alps — just 2.5 hours from central Tokyo, yet offering a complete escape into nature.

The property features 19 cozy cottages and a variety of camping sites, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings in their own style.

At night, the star-filled sky creates a magical atmosphere — perfect for winding down after a full day of dancing and outdoor fun.
It’s a truly ideal destination for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Yatsugatake Jazz Festival | Hokuto City

First held in 1982, the Yatsugatake Jazz Festival is Yamanashi Prefecture’s largest and longest-running jazz event, beloved as a summer tradition among music fans.

What sets this festival apart is its focus on live improvisation and jam sessions, where musicians collaborate freely and create new music in the moment.
It’s a dynamic, creative celebration that captures the true essence of jazz — spontaneous, soulful, and deeply expressive.

Set in the beautiful natural surroundings of the Yatsugatake Mountains, visitors can enjoy performances while relaxing on the grass, feeling the breeze and the rhythm in perfect harmony.

【Near Recommended Hotel】RISONARE Yatsugatake

Designed by world-renowned Italian architect Mario Bellini, RISONARE Yatsugatake is a luxurious resort hotel that perfectly blends European sophistication with the natural beauty of Yamanashi.

Each room features a modern, elegant design, with some offering private terraces overlooking the surrounding forested hills.
Guests can indulge in Italian fine dining, enjoy freshly brewed coffee at the café, or savor grilled dishes at the hotel’s stylish restaurants.

The resort also includes a large public bath, spa, and a wave-generating indoor pool, making it an ideal retreat for both relaxation and recreation.
With its European-style streetscape and beautifully designed architecture, RISONARE Yatsugatake offers a truly refined and luxurious stay in the Japanese highlands.

Mt. Fuji Kawaguchiko Piano Festival | Around Fujikawaguchiko Town

The Mt. Fuji Kawaguchiko Piano Festival is a must-see event for classical music enthusiasts, featuring world-renowned pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii, winner of numerous international piano competitions.

Audiences can immerse themselves in the sublime world of classical masterpieces, including works by Chopin and other legendary composers, performed with Tsujii’s unmatched artistry and emotional depth.
Hearing his performance live against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Fuji is an extraordinary experience that leaves a lasting impression on every listener.

The venue is conveniently located near popular attractions such as Fuji-Q Highland and the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, allowing visitors to combine sightseeing and music appreciation for a truly elegant day in Yamanashi.

【Near Recommended Hotel】Fufu Kawaguchiko

Nestled in the heart of Kawaguchiko’s serene forests, Fufu Kawaguchiko is a luxury resort that offers breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji from every suite.

Each room features a private open-air hot spring bath lined with Fuji lava stone, and a bioethanol fireplace, creating a perfect harmony between modern comfort and natural tranquility.
Guests can unwind in an atmosphere of peaceful seclusion, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the lake and forest.

Dining at Fufu Kawaguchiko is an art form in itself — the restaurant showcases locally sourced ingredients, prepared over wood fire and lava stone, offering an authentic taste of Japanese culinary craftsmanship.

Whether you visit in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, you can admire the ever-changing face of Mt. Fuji from your suite while enjoying a deeply restorative stay.

Mt.FUJIMAKI 2025 | Yamanakako Village

Mt.FUJIMAKI 2025 is a major outdoor music festival hosted by Ryota Fujimaki, the vocalist of the popular 2000s rock band Remioromen, who hails from Fuefuki City in Yamanashi Prefecture.

The festival combines music, food, and local culture, making it a perfect event for those who want to experience the true spirit of Yamanashi.
One of its biggest highlights is the local gourmet food known as Fes-meshi — from Shingen Mochi, a beloved Yamanashi sweet, to tempura rice bowls made with smelt fish (Wakasagi) freshly caught in Lake Yamanakako.

With Mt. Fuji as its backdrop, this event offers a vibrant celebration of local traditions and creativity, bringing together people from all over Japan and beyond.

【Near Recommended Hotel】HAKU FUJI YAMANAKAKO

Located in a luxurious lakeside setting with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Yamanakako, HAKU FUJI YAMANAKAKO offers a refined retreat where families can relax and unwind together.

The top-floor Super Suite “Fuji Sokan” features a spacious living room with sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and the lake — perfect for spending a truly special moment surrounded by nature.

On the third floor, the “Yamanakako Soan” suite includes a traditional Japanese tea room, allowing guests to experience the calm elegance of Japanese aesthetics.

The second-floor “Yamanakako Enyu” suite is a world-first — a private Kaiten sushi room where guests can enjoy rotating sushi in the comfort of their own space, creating a unique and interactive dining experience.

Finally, on the first floor, the restaurant “RIKU – Rinku –” offers gourmet dishes crafted by skilled chefs using seasonal local ingredients. It’s a family-friendly yet sophisticated dining experience, blending luxury with warmth.

Yotchabare Fes | Kofu City

The Yotchabare Fes is a lively idol festival held at Maizuru Castle Park, one of Kofu City’s most scenic and historic landmarks.

The word “Yotchabare” comes from the Yamanashi dialect, meaning “gather together” or “come join us” — perfectly capturing the spirit of this joyful event.

Each year, a lineup of popular idol groups and performers take the stage, turning the park into a festive celebration filled with music, smiles, and energy.
Beyond the performances, visitors can enjoy friendly interactions with fellow fans and locals, making it an experience full of warmth and community spirit.

【Near Recommended Hotel】Tokiwa Hotel

With a history spanning over 1,200 years, Tokiwa Hotel is a traditional Japanese hot spring ryokan nestled in the lush natural surroundings of Kofu City.

Its highlight is the open-air onsen, where guests can soak in mineral-rich waters while overlooking a stunning 3,000-tsubo (approximately 9,900 m²) Japanese garden — a truly luxurious and meditative experience.

The private dining rooms feature warm wood and tatami interiors, allowing guests to enjoy a relaxing meal in an intimate, tranquil setting.

Perfect for those who wish to experience the refined beauty of Japanese “wabi-sabi” aesthetics, Tokiwa Hotel offers a stay that blends timeless tradition with modern comfort.

Summary

In this article, we introduced how to enjoy Japan’s music festivals, along with featured festivals in Yamanashi Prefecture and recommended hotels near each venue.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned music lover, Japan’s festivals offer the perfect blend of music, culture, and local charm.

Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time — and don’t miss the chance to experience the unforgettable atmosphere of Japan’s vibrant festival scene!

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