Public Relations Officer of the Executive Committee

The “44th Yokohama Kotobuki-cho Free Concert,” a summer tradition in Yokohama’s Kotobuki district, will be held this year on August 13 at the Kotobuki Health and Welfare Exchange Center Plaza (4 Kotobuki-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama).

The concert is part of the Kotobuki Summer Festival, which takes place from the 11th to the 15th at the nearby Kotobuki Park, and is held annually during the Obon season.

Kotobuki-cho is lined with budget lodgings and is home to many elderly single men, including former day laborers who supported Japan’s economic growth during the Showa era. The Kotobuki Free Concert has been held since 1979.

The summer festival has continued as a way for locals who do not return home during Obon to gather and enjoy themselves while also honoring the deceased. The concert, as one of the festival’s events, is sustained by donations and support from fans and residents of Kotobuki-cho.

This year’s performers include “Soul Flower Mononoke Summit,” an acoustic chindon unit making their first appearance in 18 years, and “TV Tairiku Ondo,” a rock band from Hokkaido formed by four recently graduated high school students. Additionally, performances by Tablet Jun, Orquesta Nudge! Nudge!, and Kotobuki are scheduled.

The public relations officer of the executive committee said, “The sight of people singing, dancing, and enjoying music together at the venue is truly full of freedom, and every year, both performers and attendees have a great time. As inequality and division grow in Japan and around the world, this concert is a testament to the power of music,” inviting everyone to attend.

The event will run from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Admission is free, with donations welcome. Photography is prohibited inside the venue.

44th Yokohama Kotobuki-cho Free Concert

The **44th Yokohama Kotobuki-cho Free Concert** is an annual community music event held in Yokohama’s Kotobuki-cho district, known for its vibrant working-class culture and historical significance as a former day-laborer neighborhood. Established to foster local unity and provide accessible entertainment, the concert features diverse performances ranging from traditional Japanese music to contemporary genres. Over its 44-year history, it has become a symbol of resilience and cultural pride for the Kotobuki-cho community.

Kotobuki Health and Welfare Exchange Center Plaza

The Kotobuki Health and Welfare Exchange Center Plaza is a community facility in Yokohama, Japan, designed to support the health and welfare needs of residents, particularly in the Kotobuki district, an area historically known for its day laborers and socio-economic challenges. Established to promote social welfare and community engagement, the plaza offers medical services, counseling, and cultural exchange programs. It serves as a vital hub for improving the quality of life and fostering solidarity among diverse residents in the neighborhood.

Kotobuki Summer Festival

The **Kotobuki Summer Festival** is a lively annual event held in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, celebrating Japanese tradition with dance, music, and food stalls. Originating from the local community’s efforts to preserve cultural heritage, it features performances like *Bon Odori* (a traditional dance) and vibrant *matsuri* (festival) atmosphere. The festival highlights the fusion of modern and traditional Japanese culture, drawing both locals and tourists.

Kotobuki Park

Kotobuki Park, located in Yokohama, Japan, is a peaceful urban park known for its lush greenery and scenic walking paths. Established in the early 20th century, it was designed as a recreational space for residents and features a small pond, playgrounds, and seasonal cherry blossoms. The park also holds cultural significance as a place for community events and festivals, reflecting Yokohama’s blend of modernity and tradition.

Soul Flower Mononoke Summit

The **Soul Flower Mononoke Summit** is an annual Japanese music and arts festival inspired by the concept of *mononoke* (spirits or supernatural beings in Japanese folklore). Founded by the band Soul Flower Union, the event blends traditional folk music, rock, and activism, often addressing social and environmental issues. Since its start in the 1990s, it has become a vibrant celebration of counterculture, spirituality, and communal harmony.

TV Tairiku Ondo

“TV Tairiku Ondo” is a Japanese cultural phenomenon and song that became popular in the 1990s as the theme for the TV show *Tairiku Special*. The upbeat enka-style tune, performed by Takashi Hosokawa, celebrates travel and adventure, reflecting the show’s focus on exploring remote and exotic locations. It remains a nostalgic piece of Japanese television history, often associated with wanderlust and 1990s pop culture.

Tablet Jun

“Tablet Jun” (also known as the Jun Stele) is an ancient stone tablet from Korea, dating back to the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392). It commemorates the achievements of a high-ranking official or military leader, reflecting the historical and cultural significance of stone steles in recording Korea’s past. The tablet serves as an important artifact for understanding the era’s calligraphy, governance, and commemorative practices.

Orquesta Nudge! Nudge!

“Orquesta Nudge! Nudge!” is a contemporary musical ensemble known for its eclectic and experimental performances, blending genres like jazz, rock, and electronic music. While specific historical details are limited, the group has gained recognition for its innovative approach and dynamic live shows, often incorporating improvisation and audience interaction. The name suggests a playful, irreverent style, possibly inspired by comedic or avant-garde influences.