Question 1

What is Soca in Japan?

Accepted Answer

Soca in Japan was founded in 2016 by a team of young, energetic Soca lovers from Trinidad and Tobago and Japan. Its sole mission is to grow the Soca music culture and industry in Japan, while providing opportunities for both Caribbean people and Japanese Soca fans.

Question 2

What is Japan Soca Weekend?

Accepted Answer

Japan Soca Weekend is the largest Soca festival in Japan and all of Asia. Fans of Caribbean culture and Soca music from around the world, including Japan, come together to celebrate Soca music. Japan Soca Weekend is held annually in September.

Question 3

How many packages do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer two packages:
1. Party Tickets Only (Weekend Pass Package) – This package includes tickets for all the main events. It is recommended for those who live in Japan or feel comfortable traveling within the country and would like to explore on their own. Please note that ground transportation is not included with this package.
OR
1. Soca in Japan Tour Package – This package includes the Weekend Pass Package, hotel accommodation, sightseeing tours, bilingual staff, ground transportation, airport pickup, and more. It is recommended for those who want a hassle-free experience, as well as solo travelers looking to make new friends with the tour group.

Question 4

Can regular ticket holders follow the tour?

Accepted Answer

This is not possible. Although we publish all the activities of our tour, the schedule is highly optimized for the limited time we have in Japan. No time is wasted! Our vendors are prepared for our arrival and departure times, and some even open outside of normal business hours to accommodate us. Without this tightly optimized schedule, it would be very difficult to fit all the activities into our 8-day timeframe.

Question 5

When should I arrive Japan?

Accepted Answer

Weekend Pass Package Holders: Soca events begin September 18th 2026. 
 
Tour Package Holders: The tour begins September 17th 2026, 1 days before Japan Soca Weekend official parties begin. Please see our tour guidelines (https://www.socainjapan.com/guidelines2024)details before booking your flight.

Question 6

Why September?

Accepted Answer

September is one of the cheapest times of the year to fly to Japan when booked in advance. It's outside the peak season, and the weather is still warm. Try using the website www.skyscanner.com (http://www.skyscanner.com/)to find great flight deals.

Question 7

Which airport should I fly into?

Accepted Answer

All events are held in the Tokyo-Kanto region. You may fly into either Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND), both of which are in Tokyo. If you're on the tour, you must fly into HND and arrive before 4 p.m. Our staff will be waiting for those on the tour. Please see the tour page (https://www.socainjapan.com/guidelines2025)for full guidelines.

Question 8

Where should I stay in Tokyo?

Accepted Answer

For those not on our sightseeing package tour, we recommend staying in central Tokyo, specifically the Shibuya area. Shibuya is centrally located for all the events.
Patrons on the tour, please refer to the accommodation options on the tour details page. We provide transportation to and from the host hotel only.

Question 9

Does Japan accept credit card?

Accepted Answer

Most places in Japan now accept credit cards; however, a select few may not. It's a good idea to carry some extra cash when traveling. Japan does NOT accept foreign currencies of any kind, including USD.

Question 10

Is there a Carnival?

Accepted Answer

The 4th annual Japan Caribbean Carnival (https://www.socainjapan.com/jcc)will be held September 2026 during Japan Soca Weekend. Details will be announced Spring 2026

Question 11

Visa requirements?

Accepted Answer

Japan may require a visa for some international travelers. It is YOUR responsibility to research your visa requirements. You may utilize the official government website as your guide https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html.(https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html)
Please note if your nationality status requires a visa, the Japanese embassy may ask for proof of payment to our festival. We can issue a letter to the Japanese embassy only after paid in full. The embassy will not accept our letter without full proof of payments. We STRONGLY recommend applying for your visa at least 3 months in advance of your flight, the earlier the better!

Question 12

Should I purchase travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

Given the international nature of our event, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against financial loss due to non-refundable costs, fees, unexpected cancellations, and travel emergencies.

SOCA in JAPAN

ソカ・イン・ジャパン

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