Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Japan

Q: Where is Osaka in relation to Tokyo?
A: Osaka is located in the middle of the main island of Japan, approximately 600km(370 miles) west of Tokyo. From Tokyo, it takes about 3hrs. by bullet train or 90 mins. by airplane. The main train stations are Shin Osaka Station, Osaka Station and Kyoto Station. There are three main airports that access the Kansai area; Kansai Airport, Osaka Airport and Kobe Airport.

Q: Is Japan expensive?
A: The cost of living in Japan is somewhat high, but for visitors, it really depends on one's point of reference. Australians have said that Japan is not expensive, but many Americans think it is expensive. One thing to keep in mind is that most things in Japan are smaller than usual, so even though a product or hotel room may be roughly the same price, the size is likely to be noticeably smaller.

Q: What are the visa requirements to enter Japan?
A: Most countries in western Europe, the US, Australia and Canada have an agreement with Japan that a stamped valid passport will suffice as a temporary visa, valid for 90 days. However, this does not allow artists to come to Japan as paid performers, in which case an entertainment visa is necessary. For further information and for artists from countries other than those mentioned above please inquire at your closest Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

Q: What is an entertainment visa?
A: An entertainment visa basically is a work visa that allows artists to legally work in Japan. In order to be eligible for this visa, artists must have a valid contract with a company in Japan that guarantees to pay that artist a minimum salary and takes full responsibility for that artist while they are in Japan. KMC does none of these things, so an entertainment visa is not necessary for showcase artists.

Questions About Live Performances

Q: How do I apply for a KMC Showcase spot and is there an application fee?
A: All artists interested in performing at KMC 2012 can either apply using this site here or go to our page on Sonicbids. The fee using this site is 1000 yen ($12 US) and $10 using Sonicbids.

Q: As an artist, what can I expect to get out of a live performance?
A: KMC is for internationally oriented companies and organizations that are involved in the music industry or hold music related events. Artists selected to perform at KMC will be able to perform with other acts in the same genre, make connections with established musicians in Japan and get advice on how the Japanese music business works and possibly be selected for paying gigs. Also, there will be several promotional and networking opportunities leading up to the conference that artists will be able to be part of, so everyone involved will have a chance to get their music out to the Japanese public.

Q: Do performing artists get free conference passes?
A: Yes. KMC artist passes will be handed out at the opening party to all scheduled artists. These passes will allow free entry as a guest into all live shows during the conference.

Q: How are the artists chosen?
A: KMC has a committee of people in different areas of the Japanese music industry covering all the genres listed for the conference. All submissions will first be reviewed by one committee member and then re-reviewed by another. Finalists will be chosen based on originality, overall skill and artistic talent, experience and previous exposure in the Japanese market, in addition to how well the overall package of the music and artist can fit into the Japanese music scene.

Q: Where are the live performance venues located?
A: All venues have not been confirmed yet, but most will be located near the Shinsaibashi area of downtown Osaka.

Q: How many industry reps will be there?
A: A music conference is a new concept in Japan and in general, Japanese music industry reps don't scout for acts they aren't familiar with, so not many reps attend KMC. Of the industry reps that do attend KMC, some are with big music companies, but most are affiliated with independent companies or own their own music related businesses

Q: Can we sell our cds and other merchandise at our live shows?
A: Yes. Artists will be allowed to sell their items at KMC live shows. However, because Japanese law doesn't allow visitors to "sell" items in Japan without the correct visa, all artists that do not reside in Japan will be asked to turn their items over to KMC reps to sell on the artists' behalf. Please contact us for more details.

Q: If artists have been confirmed to perform, why do they have to show proof of air travel?
A: Artists often make plans to attend, but then cancel. This causes serious problems with organizing the conference schedule, so it has become necessary for artists to show physical proof of their intent to attend the conference.

Q: Can artists that aren't selected still attend and hand out CDs and press kits at the conference?
A: Sure. KMC is an opportunity for all artists to try and network and get as much done as possible whether performing or not.

Other Questions

Q: Is there a registration fee to attend the conference?
A: For the music conference there is no formal registration or fee to participate. However, KMC evening showcases are organized as regular live shows by participating venues. Each venue charges their regular door charge which is about 2000 yen.

Q: Are there age requirements to participate in the conference?
A: No. All ages are welcome.

Q: Would it be possible for me or my band to do other shows in addition to attending the conference?
A: Sure, that's a great way to take full advantage of your time in Japan. Many artists do a short tour to coincide with their KMC performance. (see information on playing live gigs in Japan and tour pricing).