Spring Music Festivals in Western Japan [2025–2026]

The Maizuru Playback Fest is held in the port town of Maizuru on the Sea of Japan in Kyoto. The event aims to revitalize the city, inspire hope, and give people a reason to fall in love with Maizuru by framing it as “a place to begin again” through music. We’ve all had those moments when, feeling down or low on energy, we’re moved by a comforting melody, a voice, or lyrics that deliver a message and give us a push forward. In this perfect seaside setting where you can feel the refreshing ocean breeze, the music you enjoy might help you discover a new version of yourself.

Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas is a hardcore band from Kobe. They captivate many fans with their unique style that blends loud rock with elements of electro and trance built on a chiptune-like sound. This event, planned by the band, will be held this year at Kobe’s World Memorial Hall, their hometown venue.

A spring festival organized by YUMEBANCHI, a company that plans and produces events, kicked off in Okayama in 2023. For locals, it’s exciting not to have to travel out of the prefecture to see those artists come to Okayama! The festival features two stages, the SOLID STAGE and the STRIPED STAGE, so if there’s an artist you absolutely want to be up front for, it’s a good idea to check the setlists in advance and plan accordingly.

This is a large-scale event held every March with the aim of connecting Hiroshima’s city and sea. The venue features a rich lineup, including popular food and drink vendors selected from across the country—along with beloved local spots—hands-on maritime activities you can enjoy by boarding a boat, and events on Ninoshima Island. At the Minato Stage music event, you can enjoy performances ranging from artists with ties to Hiroshima to up-and-coming next-generation musicians. There are plenty of activities for families to enjoy together.

Sanuki Rock was launched by Su-xing-cyu, Tokushima’s “most tear-jerking comic band.” It’s a circuit-style event held across multiple venues in Takamatsu City. Because it takes place at several locations, a wide variety of artists perform. It’s a community-focused music festival where you can enjoy encounters with new music.

TENJIN ONTAQ is a circuit-style event held at live music venues in Tenjin, Fukuoka, with the concept of “encounters with music.” Bands that have been making headlines recently and those gaining popularity will perform! We can’t wait to see what this year’s lineup will be like.