[2025 Edition] A safe guide to summer festivals even for first timers | YUEN

Summer means "summer festivals." This major seasonal event brings together music, fashion, and the outdoors, and is a special time where you can experience something out of the ordinary. However, if it's your first time attending, you may be worried about what to bring and how to get tickets.

This column will provide you with a comprehensive guide on summer festivals, from the basics to preparations and how to spend the day, so that even first-time festival goers can enjoy themselves with peace of mind. From YUEN's unique perspective, we will introduce how to enjoy a festival in a comfortable and stylish way.

What is a summer festival anyway?

A summer festival is a large-scale music event held outdoors during the summer. It takes place in vast natural settings or urban venues, and popular artists from Japan and abroad perform on multiple stages.

Festivals come in a variety of styles, from one-day events to camp-in events that last for several days. They are supported by many people as an entertainment space where you can enjoy food, fashion, art, and more, with a focus on music.

Types of festivals

There are several different styles of summer festivals. The atmosphere of the venue and the way you spend time there will vary, so you can enjoy yourself more comfortably by choosing the style that suits you.

Day trip type: A one-day event held in urban areas or easily accessible locations. The appeal is that it is easy to participate.
Accommodation type: A festival that takes place over several days, where you can stay at a hotel, guesthouse, campsite, etc. You can also enjoy the feeling of traveling.
Camp-in style: Pitch a tent inside the venue or in an adjacent area and enjoy music while sleeping in nature. Popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Local festivals: Small, intimate festivals organized by local governments and organizations. You can enjoy local cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere.

Each format has its own appeal, so it's important to prepare according to your participation style.

Advance preparations | What to do after purchasing your ticket until the day of the event

How do you start preparing for a summer festival?

How to get tickets and things to note

First, start by securing your tickets. Tickets for summer festivals are highly competitive for popular artists and large events, so the basic rule is to apply for tickets through a pre-sale lottery. After that, tickets go on general sale, but they can sell out within minutes, so be sure to check the sales start time in advance.
Also, if your ticket is cancelled due to schedule conflicts, it may be resold through the official resale service, so we recommend that you do not give up and keep checking. Pay attention to the type of ticket (one-day ticket, all-day ticket, camping ticket, etc.) and choose one that fits your schedule.

Securing accommodation and transportation

Once you have secured your tickets, the next important thing is to make arrangements for accommodation and transportation. Especially at summer festivals held in rural areas, nearby hotels and campsites tend to fill up quickly after tickets go on sale, so it is important to make reservations as early as possible.
Also, be sure to check how you will get to the venue. If you are using public transport, check the timetable and connections. Some festivals have shuttle buses, so be sure not to miss the information on the official website. If you are going by car, be sure to check whether there is parking and whether you need to make a reservation in advance.

Official website/SNS check points

The latest information on summer festivals is usually updated on social media (Twitter and Instagram) as well as on the official website. Be sure to check frequently for announcements of performing artists, timetables, merchandise information, important information, etc.
In addition, by searching by hashtag, you can find out the preparation status of participants and the atmosphere of the past events, making it easier to get an idea of ​​what the event will be like even if it is your first time participating. We recommend turning on notifications for SNS, as any schedule changes due to sudden changes in weather will be announced in real time.

What to bring checklist

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Must-haves

□Tickets: Don't forget to display both your smartphone and paper tickets.
□Cash: Some booths do not accept electronic payments, so it is a good idea to have some small bills on hand.
□ Mobile phone + mobile battery: Smartphones are used to take photos, make contact, display electronic tickets, etc. A spare power source is a must.
□Insurance card (copy acceptable): In case of injury or illness.

Useful things to have

□ Sunscreen: Essential when outdoors during the day. Be sure to reapply a sunscreen with a high SPF and PA value frequently.
□ Salt candy and oral rehydration solution: To prevent heat stroke. Be sure to replenish salt along with fluids.
□ Cooling items (handy fans, cooling towels): These are useful when waiting or moving around under the hot sun. They are effective in regulating body temperature.
□Water bottle or plastic bottle: No need to worry when it's crowded. A bottle that stays cold for a long time is also a good way to beat the heat.
□Plastic bottle holder: Attach it to your bag for quick hydration.
□Ziploc bag: An essential item for protecting your smartphone, tickets, etc. from rain and splashes.
□ Wet tissues: Useful before meals or when your hands are dirty. We recommend the antibacterial type.
□ Sweat wipes: Use these to refresh yourself during breaks in performances. Scented types are also popular.
□ Picnic sheet or folding chair: Convenient for taking a break or waiting. Also useful for securing a viewing spot.
□Raincoat: In case of sudden rain. You can rest assured even in venues where umbrellas cannot be used.
□ Garbage bags: Please take your own trash home with you as a matter of etiquette. You can also use them to store wet clothes.

Don't forget the fashion accessories

If you want to enjoy a summer festival comfortably and stylishly, it's important to prepare not only the right clothes but also the right accessories. These will also help you protect yourself from the heat, sunlight, and sweat, so be sure to check them out.

Hats: Protect yourself from the strong sunlight and prevent heatstroke. We recommend caps and hats that won't fly off in the wind.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays. They are great for long periods of time outdoors and can also be a great accent for your outfit.
□ Towels: A versatile item that can be used to wipe away sweat and protect from the sun. Festival-exclusive towels made by artists are also popular.
□Hairbands/bandanas: Keeps your hair from getting messy and also helps keep sweat away.
□ Pouch or sacoche: A bag that leaves your hands free is convenient. Lightweight and waterproof is even better.

Even small items can make a big difference in your comfort. Enjoy the festival to the fullest by combining functionality and style.

▶Enjoy the festival even more!

Ease of movement and style come together! Check out the latest festival fashion.

On the day of the event | Things to know about the venue

Toilet situation and how to use it comfortably

Many summer festivals have portable toilets. However, the number is often limited compared to the number of visitors, and there can be long lines, especially for women's toilets. The trick to using them comfortably is to try to avoid crowds, such as early in the morning or during stage changeovers.
It's not uncommon for toilet paper to run out, so it's a good idea to have some pocket tissues, disinfectant wipes, and a portable deodorizing spray on hand to ensure both comfort and hygiene.

What to eat at a festival? How to eat at a festival

Food at festivals is called "festival food" and is one of the great pleasures of gourmet food. At food trucks and local famous restaurant booths from all over the country, you can enjoy festival-exclusive menus and dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
However, at popular restaurants, wait times can be more than an hour during lunch and evening hours. To make your trip smoother, it's a good idea to plan your trip in advance, such as eating early before you get hungry and going when it's quieter.
Be sure to separate your trash after your meal and enjoy your meal with good manners.

How to find rest and evacuation spaces

At a large festival venue, moving between stages and standing for long periods of time can easily wear you out. Especially outdoors in midsummer, there is a risk of heatstroke, so it is important to consciously take breaks.
It's useful to check the official map in advance to see areas that are likely to be shady, areas with tents, and zones where you can spread out a picnic sheet. You can enjoy the event to the very end by relaxing in a cool place and preparing for the next stage.
Also, be sure to know the locations of evacuation spaces and medical tents in case of sudden rain or if you become unwell.

Basics of heatstroke and sunburn prevention

At summer festivals, where you'll be spending long hours under the scorching sun, it's extremely important to take precautions against heatstroke and sunburn. Keep the following points in mind to stay in good health and comfortable.

Drink fluids frequently: It is important to drink fluids frequently before you get thirsty. It is also a good idea to consume salt at the same time.
Salt replenishment: It is a good idea to have salt candies, oral rehydration solution, and tablet-type supplements on hand.
UV protection: Reapply sunscreen every few hours. Don't forget to wear a hat and sunglasses.
Use cooling products: It can be comfortable to have a cooling towel to wrap around your neck, a mist spray, or a handheld fan.
Dress smart: Choose breathable materials and sweat-absorbing, quick-drying T-shirts to help reduce heat.

Can I enjoy the game alone? Q&A on common questions

Q. Don't you feel out of place even if you're alone?
A. Not at all a problem. Summer festivals are places where you can "enjoy at your own pace." Because you're attending alone, you can move freely between the stages you want to see, take breaks whenever you like, and spend your time the way you want. There are surprisingly many people around you who are attending alone, so one of the attractions is that you won't feel lonely.

Q: Where should I put my luggage?
A. Many festivals have coin lockers and cloakrooms at the venue. We recommend checking the location and availability of lockers when you enter and storing your belongings early. It's a good idea to keep valuables and your smartphone in a small bag that you can carry with you.

Q: Is it okay to take photos?
A. Taking photos of the stage is often prohibited, but taking photos to capture the atmosphere of the venue or for your own records is generally OK. Some festivals have "photo spots" so you can take photos that will look great on social media. Don't forget to check the official guidelines when posting.

2025 Edition ▶ List of major summer festivals

June

Hibiya Music Festival 2025 (Hibiya Park, Tokyo)
SAKAE SP-RING 2025 (Aichi DIAMOND HALL and multiple other venues in the Sakae area of ​​Nagoya)
Million Rock Music Festival 2025 ~Million Rock Festival~ (Ishikawa Industrial Exhibition Hall 1-4)

July

FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL '25 (Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata)
JOIN ALIVE 2025 (Iwamizawa Park, Hokkaido (Kitaon Outdoor Music Hall & Hokkaido Greenland Amusement Park))
OSAKA GIGANTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL 2025 (Giga) (Giga Special Venue, Osaka Expo Commemoration Park)
NUMBER SHOT 2025 (Fukuoka Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka/Seaside Momochi Seaside Park)

August

RISING SUN ROCK FESTIVAL 2025 in EZO (Hokkaido Ishikari Bay New Port Tarukawa Pier Outdoor Special Stage)
SUMMER SONIC 2025 (ZOZO Marine Stadium & Makuhari Messe, Tokyo / Expo Commemoration Park, Osaka)
MONSTER baSH 2025 (Kagawa, Sanuki Manno National Park)
SPACE SHOWER SWEET LOVE SHOWER 2025 (Yamanashi Yamanakako Communication Plaza Kirara)
RUSH BALL 2025 (Osaka Izumiotsu Phoenix)

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