Jozenji Street Jazz Festival

Streets full of jazz and other music at one of japan‘s biggest music festivals

The Jozenji Street Jazz Festival is not just about jazz. It is a two-day festival that celebrates all genres of music. With 750 bands performing on 90 stages throughout the city, this festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts music lovers from all over Japan and even from overseas.

Don’t Miss

One of the highlights of the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival is the variety of performances that are offered. From jazz to rock, ska to Latin, gospel to classical, there is something for everyone. The festival takes place on the streets, in cafes, and on stages that are set up throughout the city. This offers a unique and immersive experience for attendees, as they can wander from one performance to another and discover new and exciting music along the way.

How to Get There

Sendai, the host city of the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival, is easily accessible by bullet train, highway bus, and plane. The festival takes place in September and can be found in the heart of the city. To get to the festival, take the Namboku Line on the Sendai subway to Kotodai-Koen Station. As soon as you leave the station, you will be able to see and hear the music of the festival.

Quick Facts

One interesting aspect of the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival is the participation of both professional musicians and amateurs. This creates a diverse and dynamic musical atmosphere, with performers of all levels of expertise sharing their passion for music. In addition, the festival attracts groups from overseas, with bands coming from as far away as France and Sweden. This international presence adds another layer of excitement and cultural exchange to the festival.

Just follow your ears

The Jozenji Street Jazz Festival has a long history, spanning over three decades. It has become a beloved event in Sendai, attracting nearly 700,000 visitors over the course of two days. One of the unique aspects of this festival is its spread-out nature. The stages are located around the city center, ensuring that the festival never feels too crowded. Attendees can follow the music from stage to stage, discovering new performances and enjoying the pedestrian-friendly atmosphere of Sendai.

Performance schedules for the festival are available online and are also handed out by volunteer staff. This allows attendees to plan their day and ensure that they don’t miss their favorite performers. While it is exciting to see the well-known headliners at the big stages in Kotodai Park, it is also important to explore the smaller, more intimate concerts that can be found in the main shopping arcades. These hidden gems often feature local musicians and offer a more personal and intimate musical experience.

A place for all music lovers

While jazz music is a prominent feature of the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival, there is also a wide variety of other genres represented. Jozenji-dori street is where jazz enthusiasts can find their fix, but other stages offer a mix of sounds and styles. One of the annual highlights of the festival is the gospel singers who perform in the acoustic-enhancing shopping arcades. Their powerful voices fill the arcades with soulful melodies and create a unique atmosphere. Another popular attraction is the big band performances on the Kokubuncho stages. These energetic and lively performances get the crowd on their feet and dancing.

The festival culminates in a night concert at Kotodai Park on the first day. Starting around 6 p.m., this concert can last until 8 p.m. or even later, depending on how many times the crowd demands an encore. This final concert is a celebration of music and a testament to the passion and energy of the performers and the audience.

The Jozenji Street Jazz Festival is a must-visit event for all music lovers. With its diverse range of performances, vibrant atmosphere, and unique setting in the streets of Sendai, this festival offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a jazz enthusiast, a rock fan, or simply someone who appreciates good music, the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival has something to offer. So mark your calendars for September and get ready to immerse yourself in the sounds and rhythms of one of Japan’s biggest music festivals.

Address And Maps Location:

Kokubun-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi-ken


Find Location And Direction On Google Maps

Subscribe, follow travelbloggerindonesia.com