Arabaki Rock Fest
Arabaki Rock Fest is Tohoku’s largest annual rock music festival. Held over a weekend during the Golden Week holidays in late April or early May, this two-day event takes place at Eco Camp Michinoku in Shibata Town, just outside Sendai. The festival features multiple stages where bands from various genres perform, attracting music enthusiasts from all over japan.
To get to Arabaki Rock Fest, there are a few transportation options available. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train to either Sendai Station or Ogawara Station in southern Miyagi. From there, you can take advantage of the free shuttle service provided by the festival organizers. The shuttle bus will take you directly to the festival site, and the journey usually takes around 40 to 50 minutes. If you plan to drive to the festival, you will need to purchase a parking ticket in advance. It’s important to note that parking lots other than the main one are located further away from the venue and require waiting for the shuttle.
The origins of Arabaki Rock Fest date back to 2001 when the festival was first established with the goal of creating a fusion of history, culture, and rock music. The festival’s name, “Arabaki,” is derived from an ancient tribe in the Tohoku region. This tribe, led by warrior-general Aterui, fought against invading armies sent by the imperial Yamato court of central Japan. Today, the festival continues to honor the tribe’s fighting spirit and their deep connection to their home through a rock-inspired celebration.
One of the main attractions of Arabaki Rock Fest is its lineup of performers. Each year, the festival showcases a mix of famous and up-and-coming Japanese artists. The lineup varies from year to year, so it’s recommended to check the festival’s official website for the latest information. Past performers have included Man With a Mission, a hard rock/dance-pop group known for their signature wolf masks, Shishamo, a younger alternative/indie-rock band that gained recognition after winning a music contest, and Yuji Ohno, who performs jazz songs from the famous Lupin III anime. In addition to the musical performances, the festival also features cultural performances, such as taiko drumming, traditional dances, and even Michinoku Pro Wrestling matches.
If you’re planning to attend Arabaki Rock Fest, it’s advisable to purchase your tickets early. Tickets can be bought online or at major convenience stores in Japan. If you’re planning to stay at the festival’s campsite, you should also purchase a campground ticket. It’s important to note that the campsite does not provide tents, so you’ll need to bring your own. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are no reserved spots available.
The festival’s location at Eco Camp Michinoku adds to the overall experience. The campsite is surrounded by nature and offers a unique setting for festival-goers to enjoy. However, it’s important to be mindful of the environment and follow any guidelines set by the festival organizers to ensure the preservation of the campsite’s natural beauty.
In conclusion, Arabaki Rock Fest is a must-visit event for rock music enthusiasts in Tohoku. With its diverse lineup of performers, unique location, and a fusion of history, culture, and rock, this festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience during the Golden Week holidays. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese rock music or simply looking for a memorable way to spend your vacation, Arabaki Rock Fest is definitely worth considering. So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to rock out at Tohoku’s largest rock music festival!
Address And Maps Location:
254 Mukaihara Kawauchi, Kawasaki-machi, Miyagi-ken
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