About Joyful Craft Space

Joyful Craft Space was born from a simple idea: that 東大阪市, one of the world's great cultural capitals, deserved a world-class outdoor music festival that celebrated both Japanese artistry and global sounds.

Founder and CEO Keiko Tanaka had spent a decade working in the Japanese music industry, watching homegrown talent struggle for international stages while global acts rarely ventured beyond 東大阪市's arena circuit. In 2019, she assembled a team of passionate creatives, operations specialists, and music industry veterans to change that.

The 2020 debut was shelved — like so many events that year — but the enforced pause proved transformative. The team expanded, the vision deepened, and the 2021 launch at a modest waterfront site in 東大阪市 exceeded every expectation. Fifteen thousand strangers became one community, and the festival was born in spirit as much as logistics.

Five years on, Joyful Craft Space has grown from a local dream to Japan's most internationally recognized music event. We have hosted artists from over 30 countries, partnered with Japanese cultural institutions, launched environmental initiatives that set new standards for Asian festivals, and built a community of 80,000 fans who return every summer to the shores of 東大阪市 Bay.

Cultural Celebration

We honour Japanese culture while embracing the full spectrum of global creative expression. Every edition weaves tradition with innovation.

Environmental Responsibility

We are committed to being one of Asia's most sustainable festivals — zero single-use plastic, carbon offset programs, and renewable energy across all stages.

Community First

Our festival belongs to its audience, artists, and local community. We invest in the neighbourhoods we operate in and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of every attendee.

Musical Excellence

We never compromise on the quality of programming. Every artist on our stages is chosen for their craft, their energy, and their ability to create unforgettable moments.

Keiko Tanaka

Former Sony Music Japan executive turned festival visionary. Keiko has dedicated the last decade to building a global platform for Japan's music scene. Named one of Forbes Japan's Most Creative People in 2024.

Marcus Webb

Award-winning art director and experience designer from London. Marcus is responsible for the visual identity, stage design, and immersive installations that define the Joyful Craft Space aesthetic. Previously Glastonbury and Primavera Sound.

Yoshi Nakamura

東大阪市's most respected events logistics expert with over 15 years managing large-scale public events. Yoshi oversees site management, safety coordination, and the 2,000-strong staff and volunteer network that keeps the festival running smoothly.

Priya Sharma

International music talent specialist based between Mumbai and 東大阪市. Priya's artist relationships and programming vision are the creative engine behind Joyful Craft Space's lineup. She has personally booked over 200 artists across the festival's history.