Kyushu Guitar Music Competition

Kyushu Guitar Music Competition takes place in Kyushu, Japan. It is held every year.

Repertoire requirements

For the Grand Prix division's second preliminary round, the required piece is "Waltz from 'Four Pieces' (M.M. Ponce)". No specific edition of the sheet music is required; any performance that is faithful to the content of the work is acceptable.

• Competition Round · 15-20 min
  • Free choice program

Official website

https://kyusyuguitar.org/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Kyushu

Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan's four main islands, is a region rich in history and dramatic natural beauty, from active volcanoes to subtropical coastlines. Known as the cradle of Japanese civilization, it was also the first gateway for Western contact, shaping a unique cultural landscape. The Kyushu Guitar Music Competition offers an opportunity to hear classical guitar amidst this vibrant island setting.

Getting there

Fukuoka Airport (FUK) serves as Kyushu's primary international gateway, offering extensive connections across Asia and within Japan. From Fukuoka, the efficient Kyushu Shinkansen line provides high-speed rail access to major cities across the island, including Kagoshima to the south, with stops at Kokura (Kitakyushu) and Hakata (Fukuoka). Travelers arriving from Honshu can also use the San'yō Shinkansen from Osaka, which connects directly to Fukuoka, or drive across the Kanmon Bridge or through the Kanmon Roadway Tunnel. While other prefectural capitals have limited domestic and Asian flights, Fukuoka remains the most convenient entry point for international visitors.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Kyushu on Omio →

Japan uses Type A/B sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

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Where to stay

Given that Kyushu is a large island, visitors will likely base themselves in one of its major cities or scenic areas while attending the competition. Fukuoka, the largest city and main transport hub, offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to more modest stays, and provides excellent access to the rest of the island. Other vibrant cities like Kitakyushu, Kumamoto, or Nagasaki also offer convenient bases with distinct local character. For a more unique experience, consider staying in one of Kyushu's famous hot spring towns such as Beppu, known for its abundant onsen, or explore the coastal resorts and mountainous regions for a quieter retreat. Booking accommodations well in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons.

What you'll hear

The Kyushu Guitar Music Competition draws talented classical guitarists from across Japan and beyond, providing a platform for emerging artists. The competition's format and specific repertoire requirements are detailed on its official website, and while a concerto round is not featured, the event promises high-level solo performances. Winners receive cash prizes and significant recognition, often leading to further performance opportunities.

Beyond the competitive stage, Kyushu itself offers a rich tapestry of sounds and cultural heritage. As a historical crossroads, its past echoes in the distinct local dialects, almost incomprehensible to standard Japanese speakers, and the fusion of influences from early Japanese civilization, Chinese trade, and the first European encounters in Nagasaki. This unique cultural blend provides a compelling backdrop for the contemporary music heard at the competition, connecting the modern classical guitar to a deeply rooted historical landscape.

The local table

Kyushu's cuisine reflects its diverse landscape and historical influences. The island's fertile volcanic soil supports a bounty of agricultural products including rice, tea, sweet potatoes, and soy, while its extensive coastlines yield abundant fresh seafood. One notable culinary import, historically linked to Nagasaki through early Dutch and Portuguese trade, is tempura, a dish now beloved across Japan. Beyond this, look for local specialties that highlight the region's produce and marine life. While specific dishes may vary by prefecture within Kyushu, visitors can expect high-quality Japanese fare, often with a regional twist, emphasizing fresh ingredients.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Kyushu →

While you're there

Kyushu offers an extraordinary array of sights and experiences to complement the competition. Explore Fukuoka, the island's bustling capital, known for its shopping, museums, and one of Japan's major sumo tournaments. Journey to Nagasaki, Japan's first port open to the West, with its historic Dejima trading post, vibrant Chinatown, and poignant atomic bombing memorial sites. Inland, visit Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan's most impressive, and use the city as a gateway to central Kyushu. Nature enthusiasts can marvel at Mount Aso, Japan's largest active volcano, or hike the scenic Takachiho Gorge, deeply tied to Shinto mythology. For a truly unique experience, visit the hot spring resort town of Beppu, famous for its 'hells' and numerous onsen, or take a trip to Yakushima, a subtropical island designated a World Natural Heritage site for its ancient cedar forests. The Amakusa islands offer a glimpse into the history of Japan's 'Hidden Christians' and opportunities for dolphin watching. Kyushu's diverse prefectures each hold their own distinct charm, from the beach resorts of Miyazaki to the historical port of Kitakyushu.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Kyushu →

More guitar events in Japan: All Japan Guitar Competition · Classical Guitar Competition (JGA) · Japan Guitar Competition · Nagoya Guitar Competition · San-in Guitar Competition · Tokyo International Guitar Competition

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

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