Kagoshima International Arts Festival
where artistic excellence meets cultural exchange
Celebrating music, dance and the performing arts in one of Japan’s most beautiful cultural destinations.
Kagoshima, Japan
7 - 10 December 2026
Introduction
The Kagoshima International Arts Festival (KIAF) brings together performers from across Asia and beyond to celebrate artistic excellence, cultural exchange and international friendship.
Organised by the Asia Arts Festival, KIAF builds upon over a decade of experience in delivering international performing arts festivals, while creating a unique platform that celebrates the rich culture, heritage and hospitality of Kagoshima.
Why Kagoshima?
There are many beautiful cities in Japan, but few offer the unique combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty and genuine hospitality found in Kagoshima.
From the iconic Sakurajima volcano to its historic streets, traditional arts and vibrant local community, Kagoshima provides an inspiring backdrop for young performers from around the world.
Here, participants are invited not only to perform on stage, but also to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture, forge international friendships and create memories that extend far beyond the competition itself.
It is this spirit of discovery, learning and cultural appreciation that makes Kagoshima the perfect home for the festival.
Our Story
The Kagoshima International Arts Festival began with a simple vision.
For many years, our Founder, Mr Francis Liew, travelled regularly to Kagoshima. With each visit, he grew increasingly inspired by the region's breathtaking natural beauty, deep cultural heritage and the warmth of its people. More than just a destination, Kagoshima became a place that embodied the values the Asia Arts Festival has always championed - respect for tradition, artistic excellence and meaningful human connection.
Having established the Asia Arts Festival in Singapore in 2013, Mr Liew envisioned bringing these two worlds together: creating an international platform where young artists could not only showcase their talents, but also experience the richness of Japanese culture through the unique setting of Kagoshima.
That vision became a reality with the inaugural Kagoshima International Arts Festival in 2024.
Following the success of its first edition, the festival now returns to continue building bridges between cultures through the universal language of the arts.
