This was not a problem however, as beginners and yoga experts alike gathered in harmony under the morning sunshine.

Hundreds of participants unrolled mats and small sheets, standing at the ready and awaiting Ms. Shibuki’s kind and easy-to-understand instruction. There were even people way up in the campsite above, barely within earshot with arms outstretched and mimicking the movements of the people below.

Though I didn’t bring a mat, I joined in the stretching and standing poses and could immediately see how this sort of relaxing activity becomes a daily routine for many.

Especially at a music festival with grounds as vast as Fuji Rock, its easy to understand the benefits of finding inner peace in your mind and body before tackling a long day of strenuous walking and standing.

It was Ms. Shibuki’s simple and friendly instruction that led everyone peacefully and gently through the session, and likely converted more than a few future yoga members in the process.

Vocalist Shukei Tamaoki and guitarist Seijun Kato are based in Tokyo, and the band says that they usually play shows in kissatens (Showa era Japanese cafes). This type of set is new for them, with this being their first time performing at a festival.

Much of their tracks are an ode to their upbringings in Hachijo-jima, an island located in the Phillipine Sea. Tucked in their lyrics are numerous references to the Japanese summers: shrines, cicadas, and watermelons are some of the many. Fittingly, during their performance, the birds were chirping, the sky was blue, and the mountains beautifully surrounded the Pyramid Garden.

The band opened their set with their song, Haru (春) and kept the summer vibes going with their songs Natsu ga Kitara (夏が来たら) and Natsu no Owari (夏の終わり). They finished their set with their song Baiku wo Tobashite (バイクを飛ばして).

If you are keen to relive your favorite Japanese summers or revisit the old corners of your hometown, this band will surely help you get there.

The Gypsy Avalon stage is the perfect location to unwind. Located further away from the main stages, it makes for a calming retreat away from the loud sets of the weekend. It’s been six years since YeYe last performed at Fuji Rock and today at the Gypsy Avalon, the audience was treated to an intimate set full of humor, fun, and surprises.

She and her band performed some of her popular hits Kurashi (暮らし), Otona (おとな), and STEP IN TIME. It is surprising that her Spotify hit Yura Yura (ゆらゆら) failed to make the cut. Much of the set exuded a soft and calming energy with the occasional humorous commentary. “Nice dancing!” she says to an excited audience member. A rainbow could be seen above us in latter half of the set, and the crowd left feeling refreshed and most of all, satisfied.