[2026] Complete Guide to Music Festivals in Kyushu & Okinawa + Spotlight on Must-See Events

MUSIC CITY TENJIN is the largest music festival in Fukuoka Prefecture, drawing over 100,000 attendees each year. It has been held since 2002 with the aim of revitalizing the Tenjin area and improving Fukuoka’s music environment. Performers are recruited through an open call, and applications are accepted regardless of performance style or musical genre.

An otherworldly space surrounded by palm trees and beaches. Nokonoshima, the event venue, transforms into a “Salsa Island” so full of smiles that you’d never believe it’s in Japan. With cheerful Latin rhythms coming from the stage, the whole venue becomes one, and both Japanese and international visitors break into dance with big smiles—this is that kind of festival!

Nakasu is the large entertainment district in Hakata, Kyushu. Nakasu Jazz was launched to make this already bustling area even more vibrant. The event is committed to offering high-quality jazz performances free of charge, and it has continued thanks to the support of many jazz fans.

Since 1977, this has been a long-running event. It takes place at Seagaia. It’s divided into Jazz Night and Juke Night: Jazz Night features seasoned veterans, while Juke Night brings together trending bands and artists, drawing a lively crowd of all ages.