Japan Fest 2025

About

Sunday 19 October 2025 | 11am - 5pm
Nottingham Girls’ High School & The Squire Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: from £11 | Under 5’s Free | Carer Tickets Available (Booking fees apply)

For the very first time, Nottingham will be transformed into a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture! Step into a full-day festival brimming with dazzling live music, traditional arts, delicious street food, hands-on activities, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Japan or just curious to explore, Japan Fest offers an unforgettable cultural journey for all ages.

Live Performances

MION – Rising J-Pop Star

Experience the energy and charisma of MION, an international J-Pop sensation whose catchy songs and high-energy stage presence have earned her a devoted global following. With influences from both Japanese and Western pop, her performances are vibrant, colourful, and packed with excitement. Expect uplifting anthems, dazzling outfits, and a glimpse into Japan’s ever-evolving pop scene.

Lele – Bilingual Soulful Singer

Lele’s voice is a beautiful bridge between cultures. Singing fluently in both English and Japanese, she delivers heartfelt ballads and powerful pop numbers that captivate audiences of all ages. Her soulful performances create an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into every note.

Leicester Taiko – Thunderous Drumming

Feel the heartbeat of Japan through the power of Taiko. Leicester Taiko will shake the hall with their dynamic rhythms, physical energy, and powerful team spirit. Taiko is more than drumming—it’s a blend of movement, sound, and tradition that connects performers and audiences in a truly electrifying way.

Noa Theatre featuring Sakurako – Modern Storytelling with Japanese Flair

Noa Theatre blends traditional Japanese theatrical elements with modern storytelling techniques to create captivating stage performances. Joined by Sakurako, this show will weave together music, dance, and drama, bringing ancient tales and contemporary stories to life in ways that are both moving and visually stunning.

Kodama Project: Aki & Clementine – Koto Meets Modern Melodies

A spellbinding collaboration that fuses koto (the traditional 13-string Japanese harp) with modern western instrumentation. Aki’s mastery of this centuries-old instrument harmonises beautifully with Clementine’s contemporary arrangements, creating a performance that feels both timeless and fresh. It’s a rare chance to hear traditional Japanese sounds reimagined for today’s audience.

LJ English – The UK’s Only Kayoukyoku Singer

Step back in time with Kayoukyoku, the predecessor to modern J-Pop. LJ English is the only performer in the UK dedicated to this classic Japanese style of music, offering audiences a nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s rich musical history. Expect heartfelt melodies, retro charm, and songs that paint a picture of Japan’s Showa era.

DJ Manimal & Cerisina – High-Energy Anime Dance Party

Get ready to dance! DJ Manimal and Cerisina are bringing an electrifying anime-inspired DJ set, complete with a special Hatsune Miku tribute. Mixing J-Pop, anime themes, and Vocaloid tracks, this high-energy performance will turn the festival into a party. Perfect for cosplay fans, anime lovers, and anyone who wants to let loose on the dancefloor.

Cultural & Creative Fun

Japan Fest isn’t just about watching—it’s about joining in! Throughout the day you can dive into hands-on cultural activities and creative workshops:

• Manga Art Classes (£7 pp) – Learn how to draw in the unique manga style with a published artist who will guide you through techniques for creating expressive characters and dynamic action scenes. Perfect for both beginners and budding artists.
• Try Traditional Games & Arts – Sit down and learn Go and Shogi (Japanese chess), try on a beautiful kimono, fold intricate origami, and practice the elegant art of Japanese calligraphy. Beginners are welcome—our friendly guides will walk you through every step.
• Fox Mask Painting – Decorate your own Japanese fox mask (kitsune) with bright colours and patterns to take home as a souvenir. Kitsune are a beloved figure in Japanese folklore, making this both a fun and cultural craft.
• Akihabara Café – Step into a themed pop-up inspired by Tokyo’s famous Akihabara district. Expect anime vibes, colourful treats, and a slice of otaku culture right here in Nottingham.
• Cosplay Parade 🎭 – Show off your best cosplay on stage! Whether you’re dressed as a samurai, a Studio Ghibli character, or your favourite anime hero, this parade is open to everyone and celebrates the creativity of fans.

Food Heaven

No festival is complete without food, and Japan Fest will be packed with authentic flavours from Japan’s street food scene:

• Food of Japan – Serving hearty Japanese curry, freshly prepared onigiri (rice balls), traditional snacks, and soothing Japanese teas.
• Oishi – Bringing festival favourites such as crispy takoyaki (octopus balls), sizzling yakisoba (fried noodles), juicy gyoza dumplings, and refreshing bubble tea.

A Celebration for Everyone

Japan Fest Nottingham 2025 is more than a festival—it’s a community gathering that brings people together through the love of Japanese culture. Organised by Otaku World, the event is dedicated to sharing the traditions, creativity, and modern innovations of Japan in exciting and accessible ways.

Tickets - via BOOK NOW button above

Save the date, invite your friends, and experience Japan right here in Nottingham!