Fukuoka's Yui has been turning out chart-toppers since releasing her 2006 major-label debut, "From Me to You," while still in her teens. The Avril Lavigne-esque songwriter's new disc, "Holidays in the Sun," will drop July 14 and she'll showcase it at Rock in Japan. Making her third appearance in as many years, expect a sea of gals in their 20s eagerly crooning along to Yui's sweet, summery guitar pop.
Also check out: Rolling Stones-inspired Okamoto's — who despite being only 19 years old have already toured in the U.S. and Australia, sensitive alt-rockers Art-School, disco punks the telephones, funky revivalists Scoobie Do, melodic skate punks Good 4 Nothing, rappers Rhymester and techno-pop idols Perfume.
The setting: Situated in a seaside park, Rock in Japan is praised for its family- friendly environment. Boasting seven different performance areas and some 150 local acts, live bands finish at 8:30 p.m. and DJs by 9:30 p.m. making it an early night for all. There is a Ferris wheel between the main Grass Stage and the smaller Park Stage for those in need of a little extra excitement.
When/where: Aug. 6-8; doors open 8 a.m., shows begin 10:30 a.m. Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Tickets: ¥11,500 per day or ¥30,000 for the weekend. rijfes.jp/10