MION
We’re excited to announce that MION will perform at Japan FEST Nottingham!
MION is an award-winning Japanese singer-songwriter from Nagoya, whose hit single Summer Magic reached #1 on the Oricon Singles Charts. At 16, she won Yamaha’s Music Revolution Outstanding Performance Award, launching her career.
With over a decade of experience, 11 singles, four national tours, and performances in 20+ countries, MION brings her acclaimed mix of J-Pop, J-Rock, ballads, and anime song covers to Nottingham!
Chie's MANGA WORKSHOP
Learn from a professional manga artist! Chie will host two exclusive, ticketed Manga Drawing Workshops in a classroom-style setting, limited to 25 students per session:
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12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
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3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
That’s just 50 tickets total, at £7 each — so grab yours fast! Purchase at checkout, same place as normal tickets are purchased.
Chie will teach key manga drawing skills, share insider tips, and give live demos using an interactive whiteboard. It’s a hands-on, seated class perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Sakurako - Noh Theatre Performance
Sakurako Tanaka is a London-based dancer and performer who showcases the elegance of ballroom and Latin dance and the refined beauty of Japanese Noh theatre. A Royal Holloway graduate and national competition winner, she has performed at BAFTA, Japan House London, and Japan Matsuri. Her work bridges Eastern and Western artistry, inspiring cultural dialogue through performance, workshops, and international exchange projects.
Meian Maid Cafe
Meian Maid Café is a captivating pop-up experience inspired by Akihabara's renowned cafes 🌸🍜. With a unique blend of light and dark elements, Meian Maid Café offers a twist on the traditional Maid Café vibe 🌗
✨. Immerse yourself in warm hospitality as the maids serve delicious noodles, drinks, and cakes 🍰🥤, while entertaining you with engaging live shows and games 🎤🎮.
Don't miss out on this enchanting experience at Japan Fest! 🎌🎉
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!
GO - Learn to Play
Discover the ancient strategy game Go at Japan FEST Nottingham!
Originating in China over 2,500 years ago and embraced in Japan for centuries, Go is a captivating contest of territory and tactics played on a grid with black and white stones. Suitable for all skill levels, our sessions invite newcomers and seasoned players alike to enjoy this timeless game of strategy and skill.
Perfect for all ages and skill levels. Come give GO a try!
Shogi - Learn to Play
Discover the Art of Shogi at Japan Fest! ♟️
Step into the world of traditional Japanese strategy with our hands-on shogi experience! Whether you're a complete beginner or just curious about Japan's answer to chess, this is your chance to learn how to play from friendly instructors.
Pick up the rules, try your first moves, and challenge a friend — all while exploring the rich history and tactics behind one of Japan’s most iconic board games.
Perfect for all ages and skill levels. Come give shogi a try!
Leicester Taiko
Leicester Taiko brings the thunderous energy of traditional Japanese taiko drumming to audiences across the UK. Led by Kate and Sam, they offer performances, workshops, and team-building sessions for all skill levels. Combining cultural tradition with modern rhythms, their mission is to unite communities through music while showcasing the exhilarating power, precision, and joy of taiko drumming.
Kodama Project
Kodama Project is the unique collaboration between koto harpist Akiharu Kitagawa and synthesist Clementine Blue. Blending the ethereal tones of traditional Japanese koto with the rich textures of analogue synthesisers, they create semi-improvised soundscapes inspired by nature in Japan and the UK. Their performances invite audiences into a dreamlike world where tradition meets innovation.
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LELE
🌟 Exciting News! 🌟
Japan Fest proudly welcomes back LELE! 🎶 With an eight-year career spanning the UK, Australia, and Japan, LELE enchants audiences with captivating performances in English and Japanese.
From clubs to festivals, her shows create an immersive, inclusive atmosphere you won't want to miss. Experience the magic live at Japan Fest!
Japanese Mini Talks
Sake Mini Talk: Discover the rich history and brewing process of Japan’s iconic rice wine, including how to enjoy it and its cultural significance.
Bonsai Mini Talk: Learn the art and philosophy behind bonsai, from shaping techniques to its deep roots in Japanese aesthetics and mindfulness.
Natto Mini Talk: Explore the science, health benefits, and surprising flavors of natto—Japan’s traditional fermented soybean dish.
Japanese Mini Tea Talk: Uncover the traditions of Japanese tea, including types like matcha and sencha, and their role in daily life and ceremonies.
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!
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! 🎁📦
Calligraphy
Discover the beauty of Japanese calligraphy at Japan Fest! This hands-on activity invites visitors of all ages to try their hand at traditional brush techniques, guided by experienced instructor. Learn how to write your name or meaningful kanji characters and take home your own artistic creation as a unique souvenir.
£1 Per Person
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£3 for the instructor to create a beautiful peace of calligraphy with your name
Basic Japanese Language
Learn the essentials of Japanese at Japan FEST Nottingham!
Our Basic Japanese Language sessions offer a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to everyday words and phrases, perfect for travellers, anime fans, or anyone curious about the language. Led by knowledgeable instructors, you’ll practice speaking, listening, and pronunciation while exploring cultural context—leaving with the confidence to start your own Japanese learning journey.
Karuta
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!
Karuta
✨ Introducing Baka Itasha – the UK’s premier Itasha Car Club, making their way to Japan Fest! 🌟
With members and events spanning Europe, they fuse automobiles and otaku fandom in a way that’s never been seen before. Their club transforms cars into stunning canvases , proudly showcasing a love for anime, manga, and gaming .
Whether you’re a passionate fan or simply curious, come and see how Baka Itasha turns the open road into a vibrant stage for artistic expression and fandom! 🌸🔥