Japan Fest's Aim
For the first time in Northampton we will be holding an event in celebration of Japanese culture. This event is being meticulously crafted by passionate and motivated individuals to bring just a small taste of Japan to Northampton. Activities for this cultural event include Japanese arts and crafts, authentic handmade food, Japanese inspired drinks, performances, Activity areas, and anime plus much more with the hope that we can one, cater to the Japanese community and two, create an environment where the average person, no matter the age, can enjoy a day immersed in a culture which otherwise would be near impossible to engage with.
What to expect
COSPLAYERS: *Replica Guns and Weapons are not allowed*
Paid Workshops
SAKE WORKSHOP
Discover the world of Japanese sake in this one-hour guided workshop. Taste four different samples and explore the rice, koji, glassware and traditional methods used to create Japan’s iconic drink. Adults aged 18+ only. 10 Tickets Available per session.
JOWYB MANGA WORKSHOP
Learn how to draw your own manga characters with professional manga artist JowyB! Pick up helpful tips and techniques in this fun, creative class suitable for all abilities. 16 tickets available per session.
How to get there
By Car
Franklin’s Gardens is approximately five minutes from the M1.
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From the north, leave the M1 at Junction 16.
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From the south, leave the M1 at Junction 15A.
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Follow signs for Northampton and Sixfields, then follow the brown rugby-ball signs towards Franklin’s Gardens.
Please allow extra time for your journey, as roads around the stadium may be busy.
Event Parking
Parking for Japan Fest Northampton is located at:
Northampton Saints Car Park A
70 Abbey Street
Northampton
NN5 5LN
Please use NN5 5LN in your sat nav rather than the main stadium postcode, as the stadium postcode may take you to the wrong entrance.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Northampton Station, approximately a 10-minute walk from Franklin’s Gardens.
After leaving the station, turn right onto Weedon Road and continue towards the stadium. Cross to the left-hand side near The Thomas A Becket pub, and Franklin’s Gardens will be visible on your left.
A taxi rank is also located directly outside the station.
By Bus
The Number 9 bus serves the area around Franklin’s Gardens. Please check the latest timetable and plan your journey before travelling.
EVENT LOCATION
PAST EVENTS
HOST
Otaku World Derby
Otaku World is passionate team that envisions bringing all anime and Japanese enthusiast together under one roof. Our first steps in achieving this was the opening of our anime store in Derby, it has proved very successful. Our second step towards our goal was the introduction of our anime event, Otaku Link.
Otaku Link’s foundation is built upon the idea of giving anime fans a place to relax and enjoy everything anime has to offer. We are different then other conventions as we have constructed the event in a way that promotes social interaction. Otaku Link is better described as an anime club, where attendees are actively engaged in activities based around Anime thus creating long lasting friendships and an inclusive community. We are now taking the third step in our adventure by incorporating the vast array of other parts of Japanese culture, this brings us to Japan Fest.