Nagoya Guitar Competition
Nagoya, Japan · Classical guitar competition
Nagoya Guitar Competition takes place in Nagoya, Japan. It is held every year, usually in September.
- Location
- Nagoya, Japan
- Type
- Competition
- Most recent edition
- 20 September 2026 – 20 September 2026
- Next edition
- Usually each September — dates to be announced
- Frequency
- Annual
- Eligibility / age
- Open
- Prizes
- Cash + recognition
Repertoire requirements
Check website
-
Competition Round · 15-20 min
- Free choice program
Official website
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Check your repertoire matchVisiting? A guitarist's guide to Nagoya
Nagoya, Japan's fourth-largest city and a powerhouse of industry, hosts an annual international guitar competition that draws talent to its modern metropolis. Often seen as a transit point between Tokyo and Kyoto, Nagoya offers a rich history, impressive landmarks, and a vibrant urban experience for those who choose to linger. Attending the Nagoya Guitar Competition provides a unique opportunity to explore this significant city while immersing yourself in the world of classical guitar.
Getting there
Nagoya is well-connected and easy to reach. Fly into Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), located on an artificial island about thirty minutes south of the city center. From there, convenient transport links will take you directly into town. Nagoya is also a major hub on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, offering rapid connections to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, making it an ideal stop on a wider Japanese itinerary.
Compare trains, buses & flights to Nagoya 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
Nagoya is a sprawling city, and its main focal points are Nagoya Station to the north, Sakae to the east, and Kanayama to the south. Basing yourself near Nagoya Station provides excellent access to transport and a wide range of hotels, while Sakae is known for its shopping and nightlife. The city was largely rebuilt after World War II, resulting in wide, car-friendly streets and a modern urban landscape. Finding accommodation near one of these central hubs will allow you to easily navigate the city and reach the competition venues.
What you'll hear
The Nagoya Guitar Competition is an annual event, offering cash prizes and recognition to its winners. Competitors typically perform a varied repertoire, and specific requirements are detailed on the official website. This event provides an excellent chance to hear emerging classical guitarists from around the globe in a city known for its precision engineering and industrial prowess.
While Nagoya does not have a specific classical guitar composer pilgrimage site, the city is a significant center for music instrument manufacturing, notably being home to the headquarters of Ibanez, a brand recognized globally across many guitar genres, including classical. The competition itself is the primary musical draw, showcasing the instrument's contemporary vitality in a city that embodies Japan's technological and cultural dynamism.
The local table
As a major Japanese city, Nagoya offers a diverse and high-quality culinary scene, reflecting the country's renowned gastronomic standards. While specific local dishes are not explicitly detailed in historical records, visitors can expect to find a wide array of authentic Japanese cuisine, from traditional sushi and ramen to more contemporary dining experiences. Explore the city's various districts to discover local eateries and enjoy the fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation characteristic of Japanese cooking.
Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Nagoya →
While you're there
Between competition rounds, Nagoya offers a wealth of attractions. Visit the restored Nagoya Castle, a significant landmark originally built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1610. Explore the ancient Atsuta Shrine, one of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, said to house the legendary sword Kusanagi no Tsurugi, part of the Imperial Regalia. For a broader view of the city, head to Hisaya Ōdori Park and the Nagoya TV Tower. The Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens offer a pleasant escape, and the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium is another popular spot. For those interested in the city's industrial heritage, car-related attractions are plentiful, as Nagoya is a hub for auto giants like Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi Motors. The city is also set to host the 2026 Asian Games, further cementing its status as a major international destination.
Tours, tickets and day trips in Nagoya →
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This map centers on Nagoya in general, so the venue may be elsewhere in town. Check the competition's official website before booking.
More guitar events in Japan: All Japan Guitar Competition · Classical Guitar Competition (JGA) · Japan Guitar Competition · Kyushu Guitar Music Competition · San-in Guitar Competition · Tokyo International Guitar Competition
Also in September: Cawsand Bay Guitar Festival · Certamen Internacional María Luisa Anido · Denver Guitar Festival - Tuason Competition · Edmonton Guitar Seminar · Michele Pittaluga 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.