Summer Music Festivals Guide

Tune in, wig out at Japan's best outdoor gigs and parties

Posted: Tue May 17 2011

It's been a rotten few months for Japan's music promoters, as everyone from Avril Lavigne to Anthrax cancelled or postponed their tours here. Some blamed the radiation, others did it 'out of respect,' but whatever it was that kept them away, we can only hope that they'll be back for the festival season. Chances are, the folks at Smash and Creativeman feel the same way.

At the time of writing, it looks like the overseas acts booked for Fuji Rock, Summer Sonic, et al. will be appearing as planned, but don't be surprised if some flake out closer to the date. In the meantime, sit back, stick some music on and enjoy our guide to the best of 2011's music festivals.

Note: Just to annoy people, we've decided to rate this year's fests in a number of categories, both good and bad. This ain't science, but here's the thinking that went into each one...

Setting: What's the festival site like: natural splendor or concrete jungle?
Variety: How wide is the range of genres on offer?
Predictability: Is the lineup full of surprises, or more of the same-old?
Nostalgia value: Is there something for your parents, too?
Commerciality: Is the programming daring, or daytime radio?
Family friendliness: Would you want to bring young kids?
Convenience: How easy is it to reach from Tokyo?