How can i find out about upcoming shows in Japan?

Question

I'm living in Osaka now, and the only source for finding out about upcoming shows that I know of is the Kansai Time Out and the Kansai Scene. But they often omit shows (like the Converge show last Monday), they don't have a lot of info on local/independent/underground music and they only give info for shows up to about two months in advance. Does anyone know any good sources for finding info on shows coming to Japan?

Answer 1

First off, Kansai Time Out and Kansai Scene will be your best information you will every find in "English".

If you need more information, this will be based on your Japanese skills. The best place to start is on the Yahoo Japan site. You can find all the links to almost most events going on in Japan (movies.yahoo.co.jp for movies, tv.yahoo.co.jp for TV shows, tickets.yahoo.co.jp for concerts, orchestral performances, baseball games, etc. >> you do not necessary have to purchase the tickets here, but it will give you a general idea of what concerts will be happening and where)

If you Japanese skills are not that good, I believe the google website has a "translate this website" (not the best of translations but easy enough for you to navigate the Japanese yahoo site)

The next best source in Osaka will be the "Kansai Walker", however this is completely in Japanese also. This is more like a magazine for young couples looking for "date" spots, where to dine, or maybe what movies are on and where they are showing. You can find this in most convenience stores or book stores.

Finally, if all the above does not work, find a Japanese friend who speaks somewhat descent English to search what you are looking for on the Japanese search engines. Chances are all the information you need should be on the net.

Answer 2

I am afraid there is no better web site in English.
How about check this site which is the biggest one and buy a ticket at PIA counter.
http://t.pia.co.jp/kansai/kansai.html
Use this translation site.
http://world.altavista.com/
and find the nearest PIA counter:
http://t.pia.co.jp/information/shoplist/PiaShopTodofuken.jsp
I hope it will help you.