Kyoto Music Festivals [2026] Outdoor Festivals and Events Roundup

The HAKASE TARO Music Festival is a revamped version of the annual summer festival hosted by Taro Hakase since 2002, relaunched with a new concept in 2019. Held as an outdoor festival in two locations—Kyoto and Tokyo—both venues are places where you can feel Japan’s history, offering a new experience of enjoying contemporary music. In Kyoto, the venue is a shrine, promising an even more special time. Exploring Kyoto’s history or strolling through the city before attending the event will likely enhance the way you enjoy it.

It’s a summer festival hosted by 10-FEET, a three-piece rock band from Kyoto. It began in 2007, but the inaugural event had to be canceled due to a typhoon. However, there’s a saying that festivals canceled by a typhoon in their first year go on to become beloved and popular events… True to that saying, this festival has seen various legends unfold every year—perhaps thanks to the mysterious power of the organizers, the three members of 10-FEET, and all the attendees. The overall atmosphere is known for being warm and friendly among both performers and visitors. It’s an essential event that marks the start of summer in Kyoto.

Borofesta is held at Kyoto KBS Hall—whose stained glass behind the stage is truly striking—and at the live music venue METRO. Organized entirely as a D.I.Y. festival by an executive committee made up of people working in music, such as live house staff and band members, along with many volunteer staff, Borofesta offers a wealth of perspectives unique to a D.I.Y. festival and enjoyment you won’t find at other events.