July Music Festivals [2025–2026]: A roundup of summer festivals, outdoor rock festivals, and other music events

A massive festival will be held in Maishima, conveniently accessible from central Osaka and located very close to USJ, just as the event title suggests. Centered on pop and rock yet not confined to any specific genre, it’s an event that families can enjoy as well.

Held every year on summer nights when the shopping street becomes a pedestrian zone, the Ishiyama Saturday Night Market features live music across various genres, dance performances, and food stalls. It’s an event the whole family can enjoy, including those with children. How about stopping by for a cool evening out?

NUMBER SHOT has been held since 2014 as a successor to HIGHER GROUND, which took place from 2003 at the Uminonakamichi Seaside Park Outdoor Theater in Fukuoka Prefecture. Its hallmark is a relatively wide-ranging lineup, from rock bands and singer-songwriters to reggae groups. It’s one of those essential events in Kyushu’s summer live music scene.

Launched to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the opening of Aomori Port, this music festival aims to blend history, culture, and music to showcase the region’s appeal nationwide. By setting the festival in the bay area, visitors can also experience history, tourism, and culture—such as the museum where you can feel the power of Nebuta floats and the Aomori Tourism and Products Center—making it a uniquely regional event where you can enjoy discovering new charms of Aomori through the festivities. After taking in the open seaside views and the music, why not set off on a trip to create some summer memories?