SA-SHI-SU Studio Ghibli / Japanese Gaming Music
Experience the electrifying sound of SA-SHI-SU at Japan Fest Derby!
This special mini concert features shamisen virtuoso Shamio—with over 380K YouTube subscribers—and award-winning cellist and producer Nubia. Together, they form a boundary-breaking duo blending the raw power of traditional Japanese shamisen with the rich tones of the cello and other strings.
Expect high-energy performances, stunning musicality, and a genre-defying fusion of styles. From breathtaking covers of games and Studio Ghibli classics, Shamio and Nubia deliver a live experience you won't forget—where classical Japanese vibes meet modern innovation.
LJ English - Kayoukyoku Singer
Get ready to be amazed at Japan Fest as we welcome LJ English! 😱
English singer LJ English is a singer who’s delivered over 40 Showa‑era performances across Asia, Europe, and North America in just 3 short years.
Ever‑changing glamorous costumes & powerhouse vocals bring nostalgic Showa‑era classics to life.
Headliner at international music festivals, TV specials, corporate galas, and charity benefit concerts.
Don't miss this unique and mesmerizing experience at Japan Fest! 🎤🎶 As seen on Tokyo TV's Karaoke Battle Stage!
Shogi - Learn to Play
Embark on a strategic journey with Shogi, the Japanese chess variant, where tradition meets tactical brilliance. With guidance provided by Robert, who has been demonstrating Shogi for over 10 years!
Experience the game's allure through its rich history and intricate gameplay. Whether a novice or a seasoned player, Shogi captivates enthusiasts with its timeless charm, fostering a realm where strategic mastery reigns supreme.
London Karuta Club
As the only Karuta club in the UK, and one of the few in Europe, the London Karuta Club meets to practice the game and build a community of people interested in Japanese culture.
Whether you're interested in Japanese poetry, or you've seen Chihayafuru and always wanted to try the game, join us to take part in mini-games and learn about Karuta – a unique mix of Japanese culture and sport!
Test your mind and your reflexes in this Japanese card game with hundreds of years of history, accessible to all ages!
Go! - Learn to Play
Discover the ancient strategy game Go at Japan Fest!
🧠 Learn the basics or challenge a friend in this timeless Asian board game of black and white stones. Simple to learn but endlessly deep, Go is perfect for curious minds of all ages. 🏯
✨ Drop by, take a seat, and see if you have what it takes to master the board! 🏁
Natto Tasting & Talk
John Fahy, with over 50 years of culinary experience, will be showcasing the power of Natto at Japan Fest Mansfield. Growing up in a large Irish family and trained in top London hotels, John refined his skills in the army, where he also became a vegetarian. His culinary journey led him to explore Japanese cuisine and the health benefits of fermented foods like Natto. With a master’s degree in Culinary Arts and a doctorate in Public Health, John discovered the vital role of Vitamin K2 in cardiovascular health through the Rotterdam Study. Natto, a fermented soy product, is rich in Vitamin K2, which helps prevent arterial calcification, lower blood pressure, and improve bone health. Join us to learn more about this nutritious superfood and its benefits.
Jero11
🎸 Get Ready to Rock with JERO11! 🤘🏽🎸
Meet JERO11, a metal guitarist who fuses Japanese tradition with electric energy, creating Wagakki Guitar Metal! For over 20 years, this solo performer has wowed audiences with his 7-string guitar and self-built box shamisen. Influenced by legends like Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and J-Rock b
OISHI
Welcome to Oishi, where the flavours of Japan come alive!
Step into the world of authentic Japanese cuisine with OISHI, our beloved Japanese street food Vendor that has been delighting taste buds since its launch in 2022. Owned and operated by the dynamic duo of Head Chefs Cyrus and Katrina, OISHI promises a culinary journey like no other.
At OISHI, they believe in simplicity with a touch of perfection. Their philosophy revolves around serving only the highest quality traditional Japanese dishes, prepared with meticulous attention to detail in a clean and sparkling environment.
DJ MANIMAL & CERISINA
Prepare yourself to be immersed in DJ Manimal's captivating performance as he guides you through the electrifying journey of "The Hatsune Miku Glow Stick Experience," accompanied by mesmerizing Anime Cinema Screen visuals and dynamic dance routines by Ceris!
Fox Mask Painting
Welcome to Japan Fest, where cultural immersion meets artistic expression! Step into the world of traditional Japanese artistry with our Fox Mask Painting Activity. Dive into the vibrant hues and intricate patterns of fox masks, traditional symbols of protection and good fortune in Japanese culture. This hands-on experience invites attendees of all ages to unleash their creativity and bring these captivating masks to life.
Kimono Try - on
Welcome to Japan Fest, where the elegance of Japanese tradition awaits! Step into the world of timeless beauty with our Kimono Try-On activity. Experience the grace and charm of the iconic kimono as you slip into these exquisite garments.
Guided by experienced dressers, attendees of all ages can explore the intricate details and vibrant colours of traditional Japanese attire. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan and capture unforgettable moments in the allure of the kimono at Japan Fest!
Cosplay Parade
At Japan Fest, the Cosplay Parade will be a lively celebration of creativity and fandom. Participants will showcase elaborate costumes inspired by anime, manga, video games, and pop culture, bringing beloved characters to life.
The parade offers a chance for attendees to immerse themselves in the world of cosplay, with impressive craftsmanship and attention to detail on full display. Whether simple or intricate, the Cosplay Parade will be a fun and colorful spectacle, highlighting the passion and artistry of the cosplay community.
Food of Japan
Food of Japan will be offering a delightful selection of traditional Japanese dishes at Japan Fest. Serving up delicious Japanese curry, onigiri (rice balls), and a variety of snacks, their stall promises to bring the authentic tastes of Japan to the event.
In addition to savoury options, they will be offering premium Japanese tea to complement the meal. With a focus on quality ingredients and traditional flavors, Food of Japan is ready to provide an unforgettable culinary experience for all festival-goers at Japan Fest. Don’t miss out on these delicious, authentic Japanese treats!
Black Tsubaki
Get ready for an electrifying show with Black Tsubaki at Japan Fest Derby! 🎤🔥 This powerhouse Japanese rock singer blends traditional Japanese sounds with J-rock and metal, creating a thrilling cultural fusion you won’t forget!🎸
Her high-energy performance will have you hooked—from iconic anime openings to Babymetal hits and even metal covers of Studio Ghibli classics! 🤘🎶
Don’t miss this epic mix of tradition, fandom, and pure rock power! 💥🌸
Vocawaves
Get ready for an unforgettable performance at Japan Fest Derby with VOCAWAVES! 🎶💫 This non-profit group is dedicated to sharing the magic of Japanese music culture, with a special focus on vocalsynths like GUMI and Kasane Teto. Their live mini concerts feature stunning holographic performances of virtual singers, blending music, technology, and creativity. 🌟🎤 Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, VOCAWAVES will take you on a digital music journey like no other!
Retro Gaming Area
Step back in time at Japan Fest Derby’s Retro Gaming Area! 🎮🕹️ Relive the golden age of gaming with classics on the PS2 and Xbox 360—whether you're into epic adventures, fierce fighters, or nostalgic favourites, there's something for everyone. Grab a controller, challenge a friend, and enjoy the games that defined a generation! 👾💥
Aikido
Discover the art of Aikido, a Japanese martial art that boosts fitness, confidence, and mobility. Aikido training is diverse, enhancing both general fitness and mastering specific techniques.
Join Aikido Derby at Japan Fest Derby 2025, where Jason will give live demonstrations and engaging talks about the rich history of Aikido in Japan. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in this fascinating discipline.
Origami
📄✨ Get ready to fold, create, and amaze at the Origami Activity at Japan Fest! 🎌
Learn the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, transforming simple sheets into beautiful cranes, flowers, animals, and more 🕊️🌸. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned folder, this hands-on activity is perfect for all ages and skill levels 🎨.
Discover the history and cultural significance behind each fold while expressing your creativity in a fun, relaxing environment. Come join us and take home your own handcrafted masterpiece! 🎁📦
Japanese Basic Language
🗣️✨ Interested in learning a new language? Join the Japanese Basic Language Workshop at Japan Fest! 🎌
Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking to brush up on the basics, this fun and interactive session will introduce you to essential Japanese phrases, greetings, and cultural etiquette.
Practice speaking simple sentences, learn to read basic characters, and discover tips for navigating conversations in everyday situations 🗾💬.
Come say konnichiwa and join the fun! 🎉📚