[2025–2026] Recommended Music Festivals: A roundup of outdoor festivals and major rock festivals you should attend at least once

This is an event hosted by Quruli that has been held annually in their hometown of Kyoto since 2007. Over the years, audiences have enjoyed a compelling lineup featuring artists from Japan and abroad, crossing genre boundaries. When in-person events weren’t possible due to COVID-19, they kept the event going by taking on the challenge of online live performances. Highlights include distinctive production and a carefully curated lineup that reflect their unwavering dedication to music. Be sure to experience it live if you can.

Asagiri JAM is a festival held around the time when Mount Fuji sees its first snowfall of the season and the beautiful “Red Fuji” can be seen at dusk. It pays respect to the magnificent mountain and to the lush green Asagiri Plateau nurtured by local dairy farmers, setting music on the path of the sun and moon so everyone can drink, dance, and play together. The name Asagiri JAM doesn’t refer to a jam band; it’s a title that signifies musicians from all genres gathering to enjoy the event together. Rather than partying with music all through the night, true to the name CAMP IN, everyone enjoys music while camping—that’s “It’s a Beautiful Day ~ Camp in Asagiri Jam.”

The outdoor rock festival HAZIKETEMAZARE, hosted by Osaka rock band HEY-SMITH, will be held again this year. It originally started as an event at live music venues, but later moved outdoors. It has finally become a staple of summer outdoor festivals. HAZIMAZA is an event full of playful spirit that only HEY-SMITH can deliver.

Borofesta is held at Kyoto KBS Hall, where the stained glass behind the stage is strikingly impressive, and at the live music venue METRO. It is created solely by an executive committee made up of people working in music—such as live house staff and band members—and a large number of volunteer staff.

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Borofesta, held as a festival, is D.

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Because it's a festival, it offers plenty of unique perspectives and enjoyment you won't find at other events, don't you think?

LUNATIC FEST.

It’s a rock festival hosted by LUNA SEA, commonly known as “Luna Fes.” Launched in 2015 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of LUNA SEA’s formation, it’s a lavish event that brings together veterans of Japan’s rock scene and powerhouse bands from the younger generation. Rock fans can experience an irresistible time as the entire venue is enveloped in intense excitement.