Welcome to Min-On’s Music Journey! Today, the Min-On Concert Association and the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Japan invite you on a cultural journey to Slovakia.
Slovakia, located in the heart of Europe, is a landlocked country with four distinct seasons. With a rich history as part of Great Moravia, the Kingdom of Hungary and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Slovakia became an independent nation following a peaceful split from Czechoslovakia in 1993.
| Travel guide for Slovakia
• Stroll through the charming Old Town of Bratislava |
| Editorial Pick: Karin Ann
Our journey begins with music from Karin Ann, a rising singer-songwriter born in 2002. Gaining popularity on social media and music charts since her teens, her music blends artistic expression with socially relevant themes, earning support from young people across borders. |
Karin Ann – winter song (official video)
Bratislava: The perfect base for your European adventure
Located on the western edge of Slovakia, the capital Bratislava is known for stunning scenery and accessibility, making it a popular destination and starting point for travelers exploring Europe. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for walking tours, with many highlights located in the Old Town.
■ Old Town and Michael’s Gate
Photo © VisitBratislava.com
Having flourished since Roman times, Bratislava is home to many medieval buildings and castles. The Old Town was once surrounded by city walls and four gates, but today only Michael’s Gate remains.
■ The Blue Church
Officially called the Church of St. Elizabeth, this pastel blue church is beloved for its fairy tale appearance. The church’s charming exterior makes it one of Bratislava’s most photographed landmarks. The interior is free to visit and equally compelling.
Slovakia is a Castle Lovers’ Paradise
Slovakia is often called the “land of castles,” with more than 100 castles scattered across the country. One of the best ways to explore these historic sites is castle-hopping by car.
■ Western to Central Slovakia: Bratislava Castle / Devin Castle / Bojnice Castle
Bratislava Castle once served as the residence of Maria Theresa in the 18th century. With four pointed towers, it’s affectionately nicknamed the “inverted table.”
Devin Castle is now in ruins, having been destroyed by Napoleon’s army, but the site offers amazing views of the Danube River.
Photo © VisitBratislava.com
Bojnice Castle, located in central Slovakia, is a popular location for filming fantasy movies thanks to its unique mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Photo © VisitBratislava.com
■ Eastern Slovakia: Spiš Castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Spiš Castle, one of the largest castle compounds in Central Europe, rises over a peaceful highland and evokes the image of a castle floating in the sky. The interior is open to the public as a museum.
Photo © Travel to Slovakia Good Idea
Festivals of Slovakia
Slovakia hosts many festivals throughout the year. Below we introduce three unique events highlighting its rich cultural history.
■ Bratislava Coronation Festival
Bratislava, in the past known as Pressburg, was the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary for almost 250 years, and 11 kings and queens have been crowned here.
Photo © VisitBratislava.com
Every year, in June or July, the city reenacts the coronation of Hungarian kings that took place here from the 16th to 19th centuries. Don’t miss the colorful parade through the Old Town featuring vibrant traditional dress.
Photo © VisitBratislava.com
■ Východná Folklore Festival
Slovakia’s largest and oldest folk festival will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2025. Featuring over 1,500 performers, this multi-generational celebration brings together people, music and tradition.
■ Pohoda Festival
One of Europe’s top festivals, Pohoda blends modern music with literature, dance, art and film. From rock to classical, the performances offer something for every music fan.
Slovakia’s Musical Heritage
Slovakia is home to a rich and diverse music scene. In the past, many great artists performed in Bratislava, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn and Ludwig van Beethoven, who even composed his famous Moonlight Sonata in Dolná Krupá, a small village in Western Slovakia.
In addition to contemporary artists like Karin Ann, hip-hop acts like SIMA and Separ, and R&B artist Alan Murin, the country also maintains a strong folk music tradition. Traditional styles vary by region. In the west (home to the capital), music shares similarities with Czech styles, and cheerful polkas are popular. In the east, where many Rusyn people live, emotional and powerful Rusyn folk songs are common.
| Editorial Pick: Hrdza
Founded in 1999, the band Hrdza fuses traditional folk music with rock to create a unique sound. Their music videos often revive the past using modern production techniques. Enjoy their passionate melodies and energetic dancing in this dynamic Rusyn folk song arrangement. |
Hrdza: Štefan (Official Live Video)
The musical style of central Slovakia is characterized by melodic pieces that highlight solo performances on the traditional instrument, the fujara. Many elements of Slovakia’s traditional music are recognized as elements of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
(1) Fujara: A large flute with three holes traditionally played by shepherds
(2) Bagpipe culture: The tradition of making and playing bagpipes, along with the related customs and music, is preserved throughout Slovakia
Photo © CENTRUM PRE TRADIČNO ĽUDOVÚ KULTÚRU
In closing, please enjoy performances by musicians recommended by the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Japan.
- “Horehronie” – Kristina (Eurovision 2010)
- “Mám ťa rád” (All-Stars Band Live Session Cover) – Karol Duchoň
- “ Tanečnice z Lúčnice” – Jožo Ráž & Lúčnica (Slovak Woman of the Year Awards 2012)
What did you think of your music journey to Slovakia? There are still many more places to go! Please look forward to our next destination.
(Produced in collaboration with the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Japan.)
Min-On Concert Association
-Music Binds Our Hearts-
