“Anyone who fails to follow staff instructions may be removed from the venue,” according to a statement from Ultra Japan.
During the North American dubstep explosion of the early 2010s, the phenomenon of moshing carried over from the rock world as a new generation of dance music fans connected with heavier sounds. But the buck stops at this year’s edition of Ultra Japan.
Moshing — or dancing in such a way that you push and slam into other nearby attendees — is expressly forbidden at the festival, according to a statement. “For everyone’s safety, moshing, circle pits, and other dangerous activities are strictly prohibited,” it reads. “Please be mindful of those around you and help us keep the festival safe!”
The statement continues: “Anyone who fails to follow staff instructions may be removed from the venue. No refunds will be issued in such cases. ULTRA JAPAN will not be responsible for any injuries or accidents resulting from prohibited activities, and any such incidents must be resolved between the parties involved.”
Moshing bans are uncommon at music festivals — even those geared toward dance music, where the activity is less common and typically only seen during heavy dubstep and hard techno sets. A notable exception was events during the pandemic, in light of social distancing guidances published by organizations like the Event Safety Alliance. Slam dancing happens at Japanese music events even more rarely, and when it does, it’s typically far gentler than it is in the West.
Otherwise, though, Ultra Japan has prohibited fairly predictable items like outside food or drink, coolers, chairs, and bags exceeding 90cm total dimension.
Ultra Japan is set to take place at Tokyo Odaiba Ultra Park on September 19-20. Headliners for the 2026 event include Sara Landry, ¥ØU$UK€ ¥UK1MAT$U, WORSHIP, and Peggy Gou.
