[Held in 2026] Recommended music festivals: A roundup of outdoor festivals and major rock festivals you’ll want to attend at least once

A flagship Japanese music festival that has been held since 2000. It features many renowned artists from both Japan and overseas and is an event that draws attention from around the world. A distinctive feature of Summer Sonic is that it’s an urban, touring-style festival. In addition to easy access, the lineups for the Tokyo and Osaka venues swap over the two days. So whichever venue you attend, if you go both days, you can see all the headliners.

SWEET LOVE SHOWER is an outdoor festival organized by SPACE SHOWER TV. These days it’s held at Lake Yamanaka at the foot of Mount Fuji. With its location offering views of Mount Fuji and a lineup packed with popular artists, it’s an extremely popular event.

@JAM EXPO, which began in 2014, is an event that has continued to be held even as the idol scene undergoes various changes. With the goal of widely introducing Japanese culture and further energizing the idol scene, it is carried out with passionate dedication. Aiming to be the best idol festival in Japan, it’s a must-see event for idol fans.

A rock festival hosted by FM Berry, a radio station in Tochigi. Ten stellar artists will perform at Inokashira Park.

ROCK IN JAPAN, organized by Rockin’ On Japan, is one of Japan’s premier summer festivals alongside Summer Sonic and Fuji Rock. Since 2014 it has been held over four days, making it one of the largest events in the country. With an exceptionally impressive lineup every year, attending Rockin’ might be the perfect way to catch all the most popular Japanese bands.

ULTRA, one of the world’s largest music festivals originally held in the United States, has been held in Japan since 2014. Staged across the globe, ULTRA has become a major festival in Japan as well, known for its overwhelmingly lavish production. With countless artists who lead the global dance music scene performing, this is an event you can’t take your eyes off.

ROCK IN JAPAN, organized by Rockin’ On Japan, is one of Japan’s premier summer festivals alongside Summer Sonic and Fuji Rock. Since 2014 it has been held over four days, making it one of the largest events in the country. With an exceptionally impressive lineup every year, attending Rockin’ might be the perfect way to catch all the most popular Japanese bands.