#Japan #Tokyo #World Happiness #Yukihiro Takahashi #SP YT session

WORLD HAPPINESS 2026: A Unique Musical Experience in Tokyo

After a nine-year hiatus, the celebrated WORLD HAPPINESS festival is set to return to Tokyo! Scheduled for June 28, 2026, at the iconic Yoyogi National Gymnasium, this year's event promises a series of fascinating performances, with a special emphasis on the late Yukihiro Takahashi and his significant contributions to the music world.

The spotlight this year will be on the much-anticipated "SP YT session," honoring Takahashi’s legacy. The festival founder and curator, Takahashi, was instrumental in shaping the landscape of Japanese music, and this special segment will feature musicians closely tied to him. Attendees can expect a unique collaboration featuring a trio of special performances.

Among the artists joining forces is Keiichi Suzuki, who worked alongside Takahashi as part of THE BEATNIKS. He will perform the iconic song "Chotto Tsurain Da," which originally debuted in 1987. Additionally, Steve Jansen, a long-time collaborator of Takahashi, will present a rendition of their collaborative piece, "STAY CLOSE," from 1986. This marks a heartfelt return to the musical roots that Takahashi nurtured throughout his career.

In an exciting new announcement, the legendary Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra will participate in the "SP YT session." NARGO, GAMO, and Atsushi Tanaka from the horn section will join forces for a unique interpretation of the 1995 collaboration, "WATERMELON," featuring Takahashi and the orchestra. This performance promises to be a highlight of the event and offers a one-of-a-kind musical experience that festival-goers should not miss.

Event Details

The festival opens its doors at 11:30 AM, with the first act beginning at 12:30 PM and is expected to conclude at 8:30 PM. A diverse array of musical acts are set to perform, including:

• - Open Reel Ensemble
• - Cornelius
• - Michiko Shimizu
• - Ginger Root (Solo Set)
• - Shutadara Pa
• - Seventh Vega
• - Denki Groove
• - TOWA TEI (DJ)
• - Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra
• - Haruomi Hosono
• - moonriders
• - MAJOR FORCE (Kan Takagi & K.U.D.O)
• - LAUSBUB
• - Rol3ert
• - SP YT session featuring Hiromu Takano, Keisuke Takakura (Curly Giraffe), Hirohisa Horie, Ren Takada, Tomohiko Gondoh, Kenichi Shirane, and Steve Jansen.

Tickets are currently available for purchase at a price of 13,200 JPY (all seats reserved). Children aged four and above require a ticket, while those under four can enter for free if sitting on a parent’s lap.

Don’t miss out on this unparalleled musical gathering that celebrates the remarkable achievements of Yukihiro Takahashi and honors the rich tapestry of sounds he left behind. Be part of this unique experience and witness the incredible performances that will take place in the heart of Tokyo!

For tickets and more information, please visit the official WORLD HAPPINESS website: world-happiness.com.