Autumn Music Festivals in Western Japan [2025–2026]

As we grow older, it can feel increasingly difficult to make time to relax. Chillin’ Vibes is a festival where you can do just that—enjoy a laid-back time listening to music in a lush, green setting. As its title suggests, inspired by the term “chill time” derived from “chill out,” it’s the perfect opportunity to forget the busyness of everyday life, unwind in nature, and enjoy soothing music. Come out with a picnic mindset and have a relaxing day.

This is a jazz festival held in Kagoshima, drawing attention thanks to the NHK Taiga drama “Segodon.” With its commitment to “authentic jazz,” the festival features numerous top-tier artists active in the jazz world, both from Japan and abroad. Centered around Kagoshima-Chuo Station, it’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy music on stages set up throughout the city. Keep an eye on the lineup—it’s sure to entice not only locals but also visitors from afar!

During the eight days of Hamamatsu Jazz Week, nine jazz-related events are held. Among them, the YAMAHA Jazz Festival on the final day is renowned for its originality among Japan’s many jazz festivals. Under the theme “Unique Encounters Found Only Here,” a wide variety of stages have been presented over the years, and this year as well you can look forward to collaborations between promising up-and-coming musicians and seasoned veterans.

The Yokkaichi Jazz Festival operates under the concept of “creating a lively city through jazz and other diverse music,” with stages set up throughout the town. The event is mainly run by volunteer staff, and they are currently recruiting volunteers. If you’re interested, why not apply?

The Otsu Jazz Festival is held under the concept of “strolling the city with JAZZ.” Operating costs are covered through donations and contributions, making it a truly handcrafted festival supported by its participants. The event is also run primarily by volunteers. Please relax and enjoy jazz while taking in the beautiful scenery of Lake Biwa.

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 Miyakojima Rock Festival, which began in 2005 and has been held every year on Miyako Island. It’s Japan’s earliest summer music festival, set in an unbeatable location where you can gaze out at Okinawa’s beautiful sea and sky—so expectations are high again this year. Why not take part and make it a trip to Okinawa as well?