Japanese Music Scene Heats Up With Summer Tours and Special Projects
From lo-fi releases to cruise events and photo books, Japanese artists are ramping up their summer and fall schedules. New music, tours, and special broadcasts showcase the breadth of activity across the scene.

The Japanese music scene is buzzing with announcements as artists roll out projects spanning releases, tours, and special events through the fall.
Singer-songwriter Keiichi Sokabe (formerly of Sunny Day Service) is releasing the lo-fi track "Permanent Blue" on June 23. Sokabe handled every aspect of the single—from performance and recording to mixing, mastering, and artwork—creating an intimate, minimalist sound described as feeling like being invited into his own studio.
On the touring front, singer Kayoko Yoshizawa will launch her "Singing Stars Tour 2026" across major cities from October through November. Meanwhile, musicians Kiyoshi Ijichi and Daisuke Kanazawa are taking their sessions to the water with two special cruising events in Yokohama on September 5, offering twilight and dinner cruise experiences.
Television is also in the mix. A special program featuring Hiroji Miyamoto will air on Space Shower TV on June 30 at 10 p.m., where he discusses his latest album and live performances. The broadcast gives fans insight into the artist's creative process and vision.
On the entertainment side, the "Dekabi Festival 2026" returns to Shibuya LOVEZ on August 9. The event's second wave of performers has been announced, featuring a mix of musical and entertainment acts that reflect the festival's diverse programming.
Finally, Ayaka Sasaki of Momoiro Clover Z is venturing into the publishing world with her debut solo photo book "Perori," arriving October 8. The collection centers on food imagery, with Sasaki featured eating throughout—a playful departure from typical idol photo books.
Together, these announcements paint a picture of a vibrant creative landscape where artists are experimenting across genres, formats, and platforms heading into the second half of 2026.
