Formed in 1974 in South London by David Sylvian (vocals, guitar, keyboards), Steve Jansen (drums) and Mick Karn (bass guitar), the trio were joined by Richard Barbieri (keyboards) and Rob Dean (lead guitar) the following year. Initially a glam rock-inspired band, Japan developed their sound and androgynous look to incorporate electronic music and world influences.

The band achieved success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, releasing nine UK top 40 hits, including the 1982 top 5 single ‘Ghosts’. The band split in December 1982, just as they were beginning to experience commercial success in the UK and abroad.

Japan’s final ‘Sons of Pioneers’ tour in late 1982 included dates in Europe, UK and the Far East. On this tour, guitarist and keyboardist Masami Tsuchiya performed with the band on stage.

Japan’s final ever gigs were performed in Japan in December 1982, and among these dates their show at the famous Nippon Budokan in Tokyo on the 8th of the month was deemed the finest show of the entire tour. Recorded for live radio broadcast across the country, the concert has not previously been issued on vinyl. That changes with this new two-instalment set which features here the entire show for the first time.