[2025] The Complete Guide to Summer Festivals in Koshinetsu and Hokuriku

Gosetsu JAM was launched in Tokamachi, Niigata—the event venue—after organizers asked, “What can we do to draw people here?” and decided on a music festival. There probably aren’t any other outdoor festivals held in such a heavy-snow area, are there? With humorous rules like “Moshing and stage diving prohibited; oshikura manju (friendly shoving) allowed,” it sounds like a really fun event.

An outdoor festival hosted by the Yamanashi-born band THE NO EAR. It takes place at Kami-Suta Plaza in Yamanashi Prefecture, a venue with traditional Japanese-style buildings that gives it a wonderfully atmospheric feel. The rock-centered live performances held there create an extraordinary vibe, and it looks like it’s going to be a truly lovely event.

Named after the phrase “Kaga Hyakumangoku,” Million Rock lives up to its name as the largest rock festival in the Hokuriku region. With a solid, festival-worthy lineup, it brings excitement every year. Its major appeal is the large roster of stellar artists.