Indonesia's rock 'n' roll fantasy comes true in Japan

JAKARTA -- Fans who are unparalleled in their dedication to music, enviable record stores and pop-culture delights that satisfy childhood nostalgia -- these are just some of the things that have made Japan the touring hot spot of choice for many Indonesian musicians in recent years.

With meager funds to spare, and often limited financial assistance from sponsors, none of the mostly indie Indonesian bands that have made their way to Japan in the past few years have done so seeking rock 'n' roll riches. Instead, such trips have been more like self-funded holidays with music instruments and a tight itinerary of performances in small clubs.