5 Must-See Japanese Acts at Fuji Rock Festival ’26: XG, Fujii Kaze and more
The upcoming FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’26 is set to showcase some of Japan’s most iconic acts, highlighting the diverse talent that the country has to offer. From punk legends like Hi-STANDARD to rising stars like Fujii Kaze and XG, the lineup is packed with artists spanning different generations, genres, and scales, each making their mark on the international music scene.
Hi-STANDARD, with their 35-year career in punk rock, are returning to Naeba after 27 years. The band’s international acclaim began in the ’90s when they signed with Fat Wreck Chords, toured with NOFX, and opened for Green Day and The Offspring. Their upcoming performance promises a nostalgic look back at the roots of Japanese rock music that crossed oceans before the era of streaming.
Asian Kung-Fu Generation, known for their guitar rock sung in Japanese, have been captivating audiences worldwide since their breakthrough in 2002. With ties to popular anime series like NARUTO and Fullmetal Alchemist, their 30th-anniversary performance at Fuji Rock is sure to resonate with fans who have discovered them through their anime soundtracks.
Fujii Kaze, a global sensation with his blend of J-pop and neo-soul, is set to make his mark at Fuji Rock after a successful appearance at Coachella. His emotionally intimate yet grand live performances, influenced by Japanese folk music and gospel, promise a unique experience for audiences against the backdrop of the Naeba mountains.
XG, the Billboard chart-topping group known for their English-language rap and world-class stage production, are on their second world tour and will make their Fuji Rock debut amidst their rising success. Their energetic performances have drawn massive crowds at Coachella, and their presence at Fuji Rock is expected to be a highlight of the festival.
Lastly, Susumu Hirasawa + EJIN, a genre-defying artist who has contributed to Japanese techno-pop and new wave genres, is set to deliver a one-of-a-kind performance at the Green Stage. With a career spanning nearly five decades and international recognition for his soundtrack work on films like Paprika and BERSERK, Hirasawa’s performance promises to be a unique and memorable part of Fuji Rock history.
The FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’26 is a three-day event at the Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata, showcasing the best of Japanese music across different genres and eras. With a lineup boasting legendary acts, rising stars, and genre-defying artists, this year’s festival promises to be a celebration of Japan’s rich musical heritage on the international stage.