What this is
Apple Music Festival 2026 is an outdoor music festival held at Alps Park in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture across two days on September 26–27, 2026. The festival brings together 16 performing acts spanning a range of Japanese music genres, with the first wave of artists including Aratani Shota, ENTH, Osawa Shinichi, Kishidan, Kimyo Reitaro, and Roman Revolution. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, Alps Park provides a scenic natural setting that complements the festival atmosphere. The event represents one of the notable live music gatherings in the Chubu region, drawing fans from across Japan to the historic city of Matsumoto.
Who should go
This festival is ideal for fans of Japanese rock, pop, and alternative music who enjoy outdoor live events in a scenic natural setting. The diverse lineup of 16 acts means there is something for a range of musical tastes, from rock fans to those interested in broader J-pop sounds. The Matsumoto location makes it a great excuse to combine the festival with sightseeing at Matsumoto Castle or exploring the surrounding Alps region. Arrive early on each day to secure a good spot and familiarise yourself with the stage layout.
Good to know
Ticket sales details have not yet been announced for the first wave reveal, so check eplus.jp or pia.jp for updates as they are typically the primary ticketing platforms for Japanese outdoor festivals of this scale. Alps Park is an open-air venue so weather conditions in late September in Nagano can be cool, especially in the evenings — bring a light jacket or layer up. The park is a public green space, so festival-goers should expect a mix of standing areas and possibly designated seating zones depending on the stage setup. Cash is advisable for food stalls and merchandise at outdoor Japanese festivals, as card acceptance at vendor booths is not guaranteed.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.