An amazing travel experience is spending a festival vacation with lots of dancing in a throng with friends, relatives, or complete strangers. It’s the ideal approach to savour the present, whether it’s by creating memories or finding new artists.
Here are the top 10 music festivals in Asia, along with accommodations close by and all the best things to do and see.
Fuji Rock Festival
Festival visitors at Fuji Rock Festival take in acts in lush settings.
Dates: July 28, 30, 2023
Where: Japan’s Naeba Ski Resort
Japan’s biggest music event, Fuji Rock, has drawn crowds of up to 150,000 people in recent years. It takes place at the foot of Mt. Naeba (not Mt. Fuji, as one might assume), in the Niigata Mountains, a short distance outside of Tokyo. There are also paid direct bus routes that run between Shinjuku and the festival location. Alongside a stellar lineup, this breathtaking location promises misty rolling hills and glistening rivers. Past performers include Oasis, Radiohead, LCD Soundsystem, Björk, Aphex Twin, and Gorillaz. Yo La Tengo, Foo Fighters, and Lizzo are among the acts slated to perform in 2023.
Due to the size of the venue, some hiking may be required to reach the more remote stages (one of which requires a gondola lift from the main festival area). You won’t want to leave after three days of camping on the hillside, though, because of the beautiful treks and total absorption in nature. When visiting Tokyo, stay at the chic THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku.
Good Vibes Festival
World-class musicians and fine dining are available at the Good Vibes Festival.(Image credit: ©All Is Amazing)
Dates: July 21, 23, 2023
Where: Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur
Good Vibes Festival is gearing up for its tenth anniversary in 2023, bringing out all the stops with world-renowned performers and captivating shows. The global music broadcasting platform Boiler Room, situated in London, made its Malaysian premiere during this diverse festival in 2019 that was held at Sepang International Circuit, which is located next to Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Additionally, major acts The Strokes and The 1975 will perform this year.
A variety of entertainment zones will be present, such as a silent disco where two live DJs will broadcast music to headphones, gourmet food sellers from the area, and a fashion section showcasing local designers. Stay at the Sama Sama Hotel KLIA, which is located directly next to the festival.
We The Fest
At We The Fest, thousands of fans unite to celebrate their shared passion of music.
Dates: July 21, 23, 2023
Where: Indonesia’s Jakarta
We The Fest is a huge summer event that takes place in Jakarta at the end of July and is about much more than just music. It’s still a festival that’s equally focused on art, design, and food, even if the 2023 edition will have well-known performers like The Strokes and Lewis Capaldi (with Lorde, SZA, Dua Lipa, and K-Pop sensation Eric Nam as past artists).
The space is set up into multiple areas that honour the vivacious culture of the Indonesian capital; stop by the “Eats & Beats” section to sample some tasty local specialties, dan-dan noodles, and ramen from Tokyo Belly. Additionally, have a look at the artistic offerings, which include free workshops, murals, exhibitions, a WTF Cinema Club, and installations. Spend some time recuperating at Ashley Tanah Abang in the heart of Jakarta.
Ultra
At Ultra Festival, stunning light displays captivate revellers.
Dates for 2023: Various dates
Where: throughout the area (Hong Kong, Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Bali, Singapore, Bangkok, Manila, Mumbai)
Ever since its launch in August 1999 in Miami, Ultra has expanded to offer events globally. The festival’s global audience has access to an even wider range of top-notch festivals than in the past thanks to events currently taking place in places including Shanghai, Singapore, Bangkok, and Seoul.
Even the most seasoned raver is sure to be impressed by it because of its electrifying atmosphere, high production value, and dramatic firework and light displays in addition to its music. Staying at Signiel Seoul for Ultra Korea the next year will expedite your recuperation from the festival.
Summer Sonic Festival
Fans of music enjoy thrilling performances during Japan’s Summer Sonic Festival.(Image credit: ©SUMMER SONIC)
Dates 2023: August 19–20
Where: Japan’s Osaka and Chiba
Summer Sonic is a two-day event that takes place in two locations, wowing the crowds in Chiba (just east of Tokyo) and Osaka at the same time with similarly large line-ups. The lineup is diverse yet mainstream, with former headliners including Rihanna. Liam Gallagher, Blur, and Kendrick Lamar are all scheduled to perform in 2023.
In addition to live performances, festival attendees can take advantage of live painting demos, art displays, massages, games, a movie theatre, and a silent disco. If you decide to stay at the Osaka version, Hotel Royal Classic Osaka is a fantastic choice.
S2O Songkran Music Festival
Enjoy some refreshing fun with water cannons during Thailand’s S2O Songkran Festival.(Image credit: ©S2O Festival)
Dates: 13–15 April 2023
Where: Thailand’s Bangkok
In mid-April, the 3-day S2O Festival takes place in conjunction with Songkran, or Thai New Year. Bangkok is the place to be for one of the largest water fights in the world, which takes place on Thailand’s streets every year during this nationwide event. For an incredible experience, carry on the celebration at the official music festival after using up all of your H2O munitions on Khao San Road.
This massive event, which is being held at Live Park Rama 9 in Bangkok, is a fantastic chance to watch your favourite bands live in an amazing location. It features some of the best DJs and producers in electronic dance music. Stay at Tamni, a gorgeously built hostel in the heart of the city that offers private rooms.
