Written by Aarohi Narain
Welcome to the spring edition of the Kyotophonie Borderless Music Festival, a genre-bending music festival in the country’s cultural capital.
What happens?
The Kyotophonie Borderless Music Festival hosts some of the most talented musicians from around the world. You’ll hear a range of different instruments and styles, from Japanese-Canadian singers to Argentinian rhythm beats.
The festival also takes place in fall.
Schedule 2025
This year’s edition will feature a diverse lineup of performances throughout April, highlighting a mix of international and Japanese artists across different genres.
The festival opens on April 12 with the KYOTOGRAPHIE / KYOTOPHONIE / KG+ Kick-Off Party at CLUB METRO Kyoto. This event, featuring Brazilian singer Filipe Catto and additional performers, serves as an introduction to the festival’s collaborative and cross-genre approach.
On April 19, Hulic Hall Kyoto will host a joint performance by Filipe Catto and KOM_I. Catto, known for their dynamic vocal range and expressive performances, will perform alongside KOM_I (founding vocalist of Wednesday Campanella), a Japanese artist recognized for her experimental approach to music and performance art.
The festival’s final major event takes place on April 29 at ROHM Theatre Kyoto, featuring Soundwalk Collective & Patti Smith: CORRESPONDENCES. This performance is a multi-layered artistic project combining field recordings, spoken word, and live instrumentation. The project explores themes such as memory, history, and the impact of environmental change.
Tickets 2025
Prices vary depending on the performance and seating options.
For the Filipe Catto x KOM_I performance at Hulic Hall Kyoto on April 19, advance tickets are priced at ¥5,000, while tickets purchased at the door will cost ¥6,000.
The Soundwalk Collective & Patti Smith: CORRESPONDENCES performance at ROHM Theatre Kyoto on April 29 offers several seating categories. Ticket prices range from ¥5,500 for B seats to ¥20,000 for SS seats. General sales in Japan open on March 8. For international attendees, tickets are available online starting March 1.
Additional ticketing details can be found on the official website.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.