Written by Amanda David
Forget the flights, you can enjoy a little piece of Japan right here in the middle of London. Japan Matsuri is a free annual celebration of Japanese culture; expect music, magic, dance, tasty eats, martial arts demonstrations, games and activities.
Full details for 2024 are yet to be announced, but last year the opening ceremony featured Taiko drummers, followed by a mikoshi procession. Martial arts demonstrations came from the largest children’s kendo dojo in London, the art of Ryukyu Kobujyutsu with 7th Dan master Shihan Julian Mead and London Aikikai Traditional Aikido.
Now in its thirteenth year, the iconic festival will be serving up street food and Izakaya-style small plates from a range of Japanese restaurants, including the Fukuoka-style ramen bar Shoryu, bao from Bite Mi, home-style Osakan dishes such as okonomiyaki, teppanyaki and gyoza from Okan and yakisoba from Aun and Peko Peko, amongst many others.
This event is suitable for mini Cheapos and adults alike, so get down early to experience (and taste) it all!
Organisers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
