Anime, sushi, karaoke, origami, samurais, cherry blossom; to say that we in Britain are a little bit obsessed with Japanese culture would be an understatement. So the return of The Bristol Japanese Cultural Showcase should excite many of us.
The largest Japanese cultural celebration in Bristol last made an appearance in 2019. Taking place at Ashton Court, it attracted almost a thousand visitors and raised over £3000 for Bristol Children’s Hospital. But, following a reluctant COVID-related hiatus, the annual event is now set to return four years later bigger and better than ever.
For the first time, the celebration is being hosted by the M-Shed on October 29. Giving the local community the chance to get hands-on with traditional arts, crafts and culture from the Land of the Rising Sun, the family-friendly event with include a range of Japanese attractions. All profits will be donated to The Oguro Ando Lab, a UK research group dedicated to supporting children with Autism.
“Bristol is such an exciting city and one that embraces culture from around the globe,” said Yumiko Jones, founder of The Bristol Japanese Cultural Showcase, who moved to Bristol from Japan over a decade ago. “There’s a growing interest in Japanese culture generally, but I felt it wasn’t properly represented in the city. I want to share the culture I love with the city I love and that’s what this event will do.”
The not-for-profit event will include traditional and contemporary cultural displays, including Taiko Drumming, martial arts, a Koto music performance, and break dancing. Visitors will also be able to get hands-on with kimono dressing, calligraphy, origami, and a Japanese tea experience. Meanwhile, a food market will be serving up Japanese delights outside the M-shed.
James Mundy, from InsideJapan Tours, said: “Since Japan’s borders reopened, more people than ever are travelling to the country to experience the places and culture for themselves. We’re really pleased that our own city can celebrate Japan in this way, and it will hopefully encourage more visitors to not only explore the country but get beneath the surface of what makes this country, its culture and people so special”.
To get your tickets and see the full agenda head here.