A Swift Rise In Popularity

Taylor Swift’s popularity in Japan keeps growing exponentially since her appearance at the Summer Sonic festival in August.

Though Swift was not the headliner, public broadcaster NHK’s decision to air portions of the festival several times in August and September seems to have boosted the country singer’s profile even more.

Prior to a publicity appearance in February that included a sold-out showcase, she was virtually unknown in Japan, which tends to be lukewarm toward country music.

Swift will return the favor next year. Universal Japan has announced that she will kick off her 18-country world tour Feb. 13 at Osaka Castle Hall, followed by two shows at Tokyo’s Budokan Hall.

Swift herself calls it her “Valentine’s Day present” to Japan.