13-06-2025
Join the rhythm on Sado Island: Earth Celebration 2025 tickets now on sale
Just off the coast of Niigata, Sado Island is preparing for its biggest event of the year: Earth Celebration 2025. Tickets are now on sale for this renowned music festival, which will once again feature the passionate performances by one of Japan's most prominent taiko ensembles, Kodo, along with an exciting lineup of guest artists from Japan and beyond.
Be a part of something big
From August 22 to 24, Kodo will take to the stage at Ogi Port for Earth Celebration's signature Harbour Concerts. Held each evening from 6 p.m., these performances serve as the festival's main event, brimming with electric energy and passion. Every year, Kodo invites guest performers — both from Japan and abroad — to join them in celebrating the borderless power of music.
This year, the concerts will kick off with Kodo Synergy, a performance that will showcase the group's breathtaking unity and artistry. That said, this night isn't just about spectating — audiences are invited to clap, stomp, and join the rhythm. As Kodo's director, Yuta Kimura, puts it: 'Bring your energy to the mix and see what happens when we all come together to create something bigger than all of us. It's going to be electric!'
Experience a fusion of sound
The following night, Kodo will be joined by el tempo, a Japan-based percussion ensemble led by Kavka Shishido. Originating in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the el tempo project uses over 100 hand signs to guide fully improvised musical performances. Featuring some of Japan's finest percussionists, the group promises an unrepeatable, once-in-a-lifetime show.
Image: Takashi Okamoto
The festival's final evening features a phenomenal fusion of sound in Earth Beat Groove. Kodo will reunite with Korean janggu drummer Choi Jaechol and welcome back percussionist Ben Aylon for his third consecutive appearance at the festival. Also joining the stage are Aly Ndiaye Rose, Dourfal Ndiaye Rose, and Baye Dame Bou Yaye, bringing their mastery of Senegalese percussion as they fuse traditional techniques with modern styles.
Get into the festival spirit
Beyond the Harbour Concerts, Earth Celebration 2025 will offer numerous workshops, experiences, and free events around Ogi Port. Visitors of all ages can take part in activities such as taiko drumming, matsuri (festival) dancing, tea ceremony, and Japanese instrument workshops.
Fringe events, performances, and fun festival activities will also take place throughout the celebration. At the Triangle Park Fringe Stage, you can greet the day with traditional Japanese morning radio exercises, enjoy an energetic taiko performance, or even join Saeki-bayashi — a folk performing art that started in 2020.
Earth Celebration is the island's most popular event of the year, and tickets sell out quickly — so be sure to secure yours early.
To purchase your tickets for the Harbour Concerts, head to:
Image: Maiko Miyagawa
© Japan Today
