SUMMER SONIC OSAKA 2026
For its 25th anniversary, SUMMER SONIC returns bigger than ever with an expanded three-day celebration at Expo '70 Commemorative Park. International headliners, Japanese superstars, and fans from around the world come together for one of Asia's premier music festivals.
For 25 years, SUMMER SONIC has brought together some of the biggest names in music, earning its place as one of Asia’s premier festivals. In 2026, the celebration reaches a new milestone as the festival marks its 25th anniversary with an expanded three-day event at Expo ’70 Commemorative Park in Osaka, transforming the city’s iconic park into a global gathering of music, culture, and unforgettable summer energy.
From August 14 to 16, thousands of fans from Japan and around the world will fill the park’s tree-lined pathways and open lawns, moving between multiple stages that showcase everything from rock and pop to hip-hop, electronic music, and K-pop. More than just a concert, SUMMER SONIC creates a festival city where international visitors, local fans, food vendors, merchandise booths, and immersive experiences come together beneath the shadow of the Tower of the Sun.
This year’s anniversary lineup reflects the festival’s global spirit. International icons including The Strokes, Jamiroquai, Kasabian, FKA twigs, and keshi share the bill with Japanese superstars Ado, L’Arc-en-Ciel, and BUMP OF CHICKEN, alongside global sensations JENNIE and LE SSERAFIM. More than 120 artists will perform across six stages over three unforgettable days, transforming Expo ’70 Commemorative Park into one of Asia’s largest live music celebrations. From legendary rock bands and chart-topping global stars to Japan’s biggest names and tomorrow’s breakthrough artists, every stage offers something new to discover.
Beyond the music, visitors can explore festival food from around Japan, browse official merchandise, relax beneath the park’s shaded trees, and enjoy special anniversary attractions, including experiences in the Japanese Garden and the return of the popular BBQ area. The result is a festival that celebrates not only the artists on stage but also the community and atmosphere that have defined SUMMER SONIC for a quarter of a century.
Whether you’re coming to see your favorite headliner, discover your next favorite band, or simply experience the electric atmosphere that has made SUMMER SONIC legendary, the festival’s 25th anniversary promises three unforgettable days at the heart of Osaka’s summer music scene.
25th Anniversary Celebration – Celebrate a quarter-century of one of Asia’s premier music festivals.
120+ Artists Across Six Stages – Discover global headliners, Japanese icons, and tomorrow’s breakout stars.
World-Class International Lineup – Rock, pop, hip-hop, K-pop, electronic, and more across three unforgettable days.
Expo ’70 Festival Experience – Music, food, merchandise, and open-air summer vibes in Osaka’s iconic park.
A Global Music Community – Join thousands of fans from Japan and around the world for an unforgettable summer weekend.
Check out our OSAKA SCENE AUGUST MAGAZINE feature on the 25th Anniversary of SUMMER SONIC
Photos: SummerSonic 2026 official website
Opening Hours
THE SCENE: FAQ’s
ACCESS
Venue: Expo '70 Commemorative Park (万博記念公園)
Address: Senri Banpakukoen, Suita, Osaka 565-0826
Closest Station:
Osaka Monorail → Bampaku-kinen-koen Station
Approx. 5–15 minute walk to the festival entrance.
From Osaka Station / Umeda:
Osaka Metro Midosuji Line → Senri-Chuo Station
Transfer to Osaka Monorail → Bampaku-kinen-koen Station
Approx. 45–50 minutes total.
From Shin-Osaka Station:
Osaka Metro Midosuji Line → Senri-Chuo Station
Transfer to Osaka Monorail → Bampaku-kinen-koen Station
Approx. 35–40 minutes total.
From Namba Station:
Osaka Metro Midosuji Line → Senri-Chuo Station
Transfer to Osaka Monorail → Bampaku-kinen-koen Station
Approx. 50–60 minutes total.
Walking Route:
After arriving at Bampaku-kinen-koen Station, follow the SUMMER SONIC signs toward the festival entrance. Expect large crowds before opening and after the final performances.
By Car:
Driving is not recommended. Festival organizers encourage visitors to use public transportation, and surrounding roads can become extremely congested during the event.
SUMMER SONIC VENUE MAP
SCHEDULE
Dates:
August 14–16, 2026 (Friday–Sunday)
Festival Hours:
Gates Open: 10:00 AM
Performances Begin: 11:00 AM daily
Friday • August 14
Kick off the 25th anniversary with L'Arc-en-Ciel, Jamiroquai, LE SSERAFIM, BABYMETAL, PENTATONIX, Travis Japan, WANIMA, YUKI, and more across six stages.
Saturday • August 15
The Strokes headline a powerhouse day featuring Kasabian, keshi, FKA twigs, Dermot Kennedy, Macaroni Empitsu, Zebrahead, FRUITS ZIPPER, and dozens more artists.
Sunday • August 16
The festival closes with Ado, JENNIE, David Byrne, sakanaction, Steve Lacy, Suede, Alex Warren, and a full day of performances celebrating SUMMER SONIC's 25th anniversary.
TICKETS
TICKETS
Choose from one-day or three-day admission, with Platinum upgrades available for fans looking for premium festival perks. All admission tickets include entry to Expo '70 Commemorative Park. SUMMER SONIC 2026 公式サイト
1-Day Ticket
¥19,000
3-Day Ticket
¥54,000
1-Day Platinum Ticket
¥31,000 (August 15 only remaining at time of writing; August 14 & 16 sold out)
3-Day Platinum Ticket
¥90,000
Platinum Benefits
- Priority viewing areas
- Exclusive Platinum Lounge
- Dedicated cloakroom
- Welcome drink
- Private restrooms
- Priority merchandise lanes
Where to Buy
Tickets are available through the festival's official ticketing partners:
You can also find all ticket options, Platinum upgrades, and the latest availability on the official SUMMER SONIC Osaka Ticket Page.
Official Ticket Information
THE EXPERIENCE
There's a reason fans return to SUMMER SONIC year after year. It's more than the headline acts—it's the moment you hear music drifting across the park as you walk toward the next stage, discover a new favorite artist, or watch thousands of people singing together beneath the summer sky. For one weekend each August, Expo '70 Commemorative Park transforms into one of Asia's great festival destinations.
Here's what makes the SUMMER SONIC experience unforgettable:
Six Stages of Live Music
From intimate performances to stadium-sized headliners, every stage offers a different sound, atmosphere, and surprise.
A Truly Global Festival
Join music fans from Japan and around the world as international superstars share the spotlight with Japan's biggest artists.
Festival Food & Drinks
Recharge between sets with a wide selection of food trucks, local specialties, craft beverages, and festival favorites.
Official Merchandise & Artist Goods
Pick up exclusive anniversary merchandise, artist apparel, vinyl, and limited-edition collectibles available only during the festival.
Relax in Expo '70 Park
Take a break beneath the park's shaded trees, explore the Japanese Garden, or simply enjoy the festival atmosphere between performances.
Celebrate 25 Years of SUMMER SONIC
Be part of a milestone anniversary as one of Asia's most influential music festivals marks a quarter-century of unforgettable performances and memories.
INFO & TIPS
With more than 120 artists performing across six stages, a little planning goes a long way. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and leave time to explore everything SUMMER SONIC has to offer beyond the music.
Plan Your Day: Review the official timetable before arriving and prioritize your must-see artists. Popular performances may overlap across stages.
Arrive Early: Gates open at 10:00 AM daily. Early arrival means shorter security lines and more time to explore the festival grounds.
Dress for Summer: August in Osaka is hot and humid. Wear lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, sunscreen, and a hat, and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Cashless Payments: Food, drinks, merchandise, and many vendors accept cashless payment methods, though carrying some cash is recommended.
Stay Hydrated: Free water stations and beverage vendors are available throughout the venue. Drink plenty of water, especially during the afternoon.
Pack Light: Expect bag inspections at the entrance. Bringing only the essentials will help you enter the festival more quickly.
Getting Home: The Osaka Monorail becomes very busy after the final performances. Consider leaving slightly before the last encore or allow extra time for queues if staying until the end.
Official Festival App: Download the official SUMMER SONIC app for the latest stage times, maps, artist information, and festival announcements.
Organizer: Creativeman Productions / Kyodo Osaka
Contact: SUMMER SONIC Information
Official Website: https://www.summersonic.com/
