List of indie festivals nationwide [2026]

IMPACT!X is a circuit-style event held across multiple venues in Sapporo. The lineup focuses on up-and-coming young artists who are steadily gaining popularity. One of the charms of circuit events is stumbling upon a band you didn’t know and becoming a fan by chance. Besides your must-see acts, you might have a wonderful encounter at a venue you wander into on a whim.

The alternative rock band NOISEMAKER will host a circuit festival in their hometown of Hokkaido. With a strong focus on the region, the event aims to showcase the appeal of Hokkaido nationwide while inviting great bands to perform there.

JOIN ALIVE has been held every year since 2010 at Iwamizawa Park, which features an open-air music hall and the Hokkaido Greenland amusement park. You sometimes hear about music festivals held at amusement parks, but a unique feature of JOIN ALIVE is that you can actually enjoy the rides there as well. This means families can attend without younger children getting bored. Admission is also free for junior high school students and younger, so this event may inspire many children to fall in love with music.

Held since 2009 under the name KESEN ROCK, this event wasn’t started by band members or event promoters, but by ordinary people. It’s described as an event “made entirely by hand without even knowing what a rock festival is,” making it a celebration of true DIY spirit.

A circuit festival centered on ska that was launched by Shimokitazawa ReG in 2014. This time, it will be held across two live venues in Shimokitazawa. It’s sure to be a day when the music town of Shimokitazawa overflows with ska! Ticket holders will receive an exclusive rubber wristband as a gift.