Matsuri Performers

10:00~10:50

Opening Ceremony Joji Hirota & The London Taiko Drummers

廣田丈自＆ロンドン太鼓

Witness the spectacular return of Joji Hirota & The London Taiko Drummers at Japan Matsuri! Feel the earth-shaking power of huge taiko drums as they showcase intricate rhythms and captivating soundscapes. From traditional beats to global stages, they’ve wowed audiences, including LIVE EARTH at London’s Wembley Stadium with 100 drummers. Take advantage of this remarkable performance celebrating Japanese culture!  https://realworldrecords.com/artists/joji-hirota/

Japan Matsuri song IBUKI / Naomi Suzuki with Miyabi Nursery, Chelsea Kodomo no Hiroba and Ohayashi couple Reiwa & Young Starts

ジャパン祭りソング『息吹』：鈴木ナオミと子供達

Get ready, Japan Matsuri is coming back! “Chart-topping singer & regular performer of Japan Matsuri!! Naomi Suzuki will be performing the much-loved “IBUKI” at this year’s Japan Matsuri with children from Miyabi Nursery, Chelsea Kodomo no Hiroba, and O-HAYASHI Couple Reiwa & Young Stars. Since 2016, Japan Matsuri’s anthem “IBUKI” has been sung all over the world, spreading joy and cheer to all! Come and dance to “IBUKI” with us!” ➡️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6iFFXga7Dw
https://lit.link/naomisuzuki
https://chelsea-kodomonohiroba.co.uk/
https://miyabinursery.com/

Opening Ceremony

オープンニングセレモニー

The first Japan Matsuri in four years will be officially launched by the Ambassador of Japan, who will lead
a traditional Japanese kagami biraki, or ceremonial opening of a sake barrel, accompanied by many
distinguished guests.

＜Guests of honour＞

The Rt Hon. Jeremy Hunt MP, The Chancellor of Exchequer
Lady Victoria Borwick, Former London Deputy Mayor & MP for Kensington
Councillor Patricia McAllister, The Lord Mayor of Westminster
Dr Rupa Huq, MP for Ealing Central and Acton
Councillor Alison Moore, Former Mayor of Barnet
Councillor Hitesh Tailor, The Mayor of Ealing
Dr. Onkar Sahota, London Assembly Member for Ealing and Hillingdon

＜Hosted by＞

H.E. Mr Hajime Hayashi, The Ambassador of Japan
Mr Sandy Sano, Chairman of Japan Matsuri Executive Committee
Mr Akihiko Takada, President of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the UK
Mr Takanori Sazaki, Chairman of the Nippon Club
Dr Michael Rivera King, Chief Executive of Japan Society
Ms Chizuko Winter, Chairman of Japan Association in the UK

10:35~

Mikoshi Procession (Provided by Teikyo School United Kingdom）

神輿（帝京ロンドン学園提供）

Look out for the mikoshi, a portable shrine with a phoenix on top, which will be ceremonially carried around the square. Listen out for the passionate shouts of ‘Wasshoi! Wasshoi!’ from those carrying the mikoshi ‒ an integral part of the tradition.This year’s mikoshi is kindly being provided by Teikyo School United Kingdom

10:50~

Nippon Club Women’s Choir Green Chorus

日本クラブ女性合唱団グリーンコーラス

Tune into the musical magic of the Nippon Club Japanese Women’s Choir! The Green Chorus has been spreading the joy of Japanese music across London at churches, festivals, and concerts for four decades,and just like every Japan Matsuri, they will be rocking the stage with 5 favorite songs. If you’re passionate about singing and having a blast, join the fantastic choir and be part of the fun next time! Let’s create unforgettable memories together!

11:10~

Radio Taiso 1

ラジオ体操 ①

Why not move your body and take part in an exercise routine that has taken on a quintessentially Japanese character? Originally introduced in the 1920s as a way of encouraging improved health, Radio Taiso is now broadcast not just on the radio, but also on television and online. Join the simple exercises that can be done by people of all ages with Noel Thatcher MBE, six-time Paralympian, five-time Paralympic gold medalist, and 2019 Japanese Foreign Minister’s commendation for strengthening Japan-UK relations through sport.

11:20~

Kendo demonstration by Wakaba Kendo Club

若葉剣道クラブ

Enjoy a demonstration of a modern Japanese martial art by the Wakaba Kendo Club. Founded in 1993,Wakaba Kendo Club based in Hoxton, Shoreditch, is the largest children’s kendo dojo in London, with about 40 registered students aged between 5-18 years. Further details can be found on the club’s website: https://wakabakendo.org

11:35~

Duke Saraie | DUKESWALKING 1

デューク更家 ①

Get ready to move with Duke Saraie’s “Pinshan Energetic Gymnastics”! Enjoy a quick, lively 10-minute sessionthat’ll supercharge your walk and boost your health. Dive into upper body twists, foot flexes, and ancient Japanese leg-strengthening techniques that end with a 5-minutejoyful walking fiesta!
https://dukeswalk.net

12:00~

Hide Takemoto

武本英之

“Out of this world guitar playing”, “Guitar wizard”, “Most talented guitarist, I’ve heard live in 20 years” -He isn’t called ‘Magic Fingers’ without reason. Witness the mesmerizing talent of Hide Takemoto, the guitar virtuoso! Trained classically in Japan and at the renowned Guildhall School of Music in London,Hide embodies tradition, blending classical expertise with captivating fingerstyle artistry. Join us for an unforgettable show and be enchanted by the magic of ‘Magic Fingers’ in action! Check out his new project HIDE N MOJOZ and new album ‘BEAU SKY’ on http://www.hideguitar.com

12:15~

Ryukyu Kobujyutsu

琉球古武術

Experience the art of Ryukyu Kobujyutsu with Shihan Julian Mead, a 7th Dan master, who trained in Japan under Grandmaster Motokatsu Inoue. Shihan Julian Mead has been teaching authentic bujutsu worldwide for 37 years and will demonstrate some of the Ryukyu (Okinawan) traditional weapons in Kihon (basics), Kata (form), and Kumite (fighting) and show the unique attributes of each weapon. Don’t miss this extraordinary showcase of ancient martial traditions!
https://rkagb.com

12:55~

Howl & Dragon Quest by LICO

ロンドンインターナショナルコンサートオーケストラ

Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the London International Concert Orchestra (LICO)! Formed in 2020 the LICO dedicated musicians come from diverse backgrounds and professions, and bring a uniquely high-level performance. At Japan Matsuri, they will showcase popular pieces from the Tokyo Olympics, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Ghibli’s Howl’s Moving Castle, and Dragon Quest. Visit their website: https://li-co.org for more details. Let the magic of music bring us together!

13:15~

Radio Taiso 2

ラジオ体操 ②

Why not move your body and take part in an exercise routine that has taken on a quintessentially Japanese character? Originally introduced in the 1920s as a way of encouraging improved health, Radio Taiso is now broadcast not just on the radio, but also on television and online. Join the simple exercises that can be done by people of all ages with Noel Thatcher MBE, six-time Paralympian, five-time Paralympic gold medalist, and 2019 Japanese Foreign Minister’s commendation for strengthening Japan-UK relations through sport.

13:30~

O-HAYASHI COUPLE REIWA & Young Stars

お囃子カップル令和＆ヤングスターズ

Witness a heartwarming journey with O-hayashi Couple Reiwa & Young Stars! Originating as a 4-member family group in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, 20 years later, their children have grown up, they now grace the stage for their third performance at the Japan Matsuri. Collaborating with the next-gen Young Stars, they aim to enhance Japan-UK cultural exchange.

13:50~

London Aikikai Traditional Aikido

ロンドン合気会

Watch the London Aikikai Traditional Aikido’s captivating demonstration! Witness dynamic Aikido and weapons techniques with sword vs sword and stick vs stick. London Aikikai Traditional Aikido are one of the oldest Aikido clubs in London. Join the club’s classes for adults and children! Learn more at https://LondonAikikai.com.

14:00~

The SOAS Min’yō Group

SOAS民謡グループ

Embark on a musical journey with The SOAS Min’yō Group at Japan Matsuri! Created by Dr David Hughes, this diverse group of musicians in the UK is dedicated to teaching and performing traditional Japanese music. Enjoy enchanting performances featuring shamisen, shakuhachi, and audience participation, showcasing a delightful array of min’yō (folk songs) from Japan. Find the SOAS Min’yō Group online at https://soasminyo.wordpress.com/ and @SOAS_Minyo on Twitter.

14:20~

Awa Odori

阿波踊り

Experience the grandeur of Awa Odori, Japan’s largest dance festival, right at Japan Matsuri! Join our dance procession through the square, embodying the festival’s spirit of joy! Delight in the traditional folk dance performed by the Japan Association with traditional Japanese singers and musicians playing Wadaiko. As the famous festival song says, ‘踊る阿呆に、見る阿呆、同じ阿呆なら、踊らな損、損’ (The dancers are fools, and the watchers are fools. If both are fools, why not dance?) We invite everyone to dance with us and make unforgettable memories at this year’s Matsuri!
https://japanassociation.org.uk

14:35~

Ainu songs by Ankes 1

アイヌソング byアンケシ ①

Join us for a captivating performance by Ankes (‘twilight’ in Ainu language), a duo from the Ainu community in Nibutani in Biratori, Hokkaido, embodying the spirit of Ainu culture. Through enchanting songs and dances, Kimura Rino and Shimmachi Seiya honor their community’s heritage. Catch Ankes at Japan Matsuri, a prelude to the Ainu of  Biratori exhibition at Japan House London.

15:00~

London Okinawa Sanshinkai

ロンドン沖縄三線会

Don’t miss this enchanting performance that celebrates cultural diversity and the beauty of Okinawan heritage! The London Okinawa Sanshinkai, is a collection of enthusiastic people about Okinawan folk, and classical music, and traditional dance. They play and teach Okinawan music and dance using the sanshin (a 3-stringed lute), taiko (stick drums), samba (like a castanet), and sometimes other instruments like the koto and fue (flute). https://sanshinkai.uk

15:20~

Hiroko Tanaka Nihon Buyo Group with Kimonodego

田中弘子日本舞踊

Experience the elegance of Nihon Buyo, Japanese Dance, refined over four centuries with influences from Kabuki, Noh, and folk dance, blended with European and American trends. Led by the accomplished Hiroko Tanaka, a Wakayagi-ryu dance teacher with 70 years of experience. Don’t miss this enchanting showcase, sponsored by KIMONODEGO, featuring the fusion of traditional and Western styles adorned in gorgeous kimonos. Join us and witness the beauty of this ancient art form!
https://www.kimonodego.com/

15:45~

Yosakoi London ‒ Temuzu

よさこいロンドン天夢手

Get ready to enjoy an energetic dance performance from Yosakoi London – Temuzu, an amateur Japanese dance group based in London! Their vibrant community welcomes people of all ages,nationalities and abilities to experience the high-energy modern twist on traditional Japanese folk dance and music. Established in 2016, Yosakoi London ‒ Temuzu has performed at Japan-related events across the UK and overseas in France and Hungary! In 2019, the group was awarded the official Yosakoi Ambassador title by Kochi Prefecture (the home of Yosakoi). Join them in their mission to share the joy of Yosakoi at Japan Matsuri! If you are interested in trying Yosakoi, please contact the group for a free trial session. https://yosakoilondon.co.uk

16:00~

Duke Saraie | DUKESWALKING 2

デューク更家 ②

Get ready to move with Duke Saraie’s “Pinshan Energetic Gymnastics”! Enjoy a quick, lively 10-minute sessionthat’ll supercharge your walk and boost your health. Dive into upper body twists, foot flexes, and ancient Japanese leg-strengthening techniques that end with a 5-minutejoyful walking fiesta!

16:25~

Ainu songs by Ankes 2

アイヌソング by アンケシ ②

Join us for a captivating performance by Ankes (‘twilight’ in Ainu language), a duo from the Ainu community in Nibutani in Biratori, Hokkaido, embodying the spirit of Ainu culture. Through enchanting songs and dances, Kimura Rino and Shimmachi Seiya honor their community’s heritage. Catch Ankes at Japan Matsuri, a prelude to the Ainu of Biratori exhibition at Japan House London.

16:45~

Tonikaku Akarui ‘Tony’ Yasumura (Britain's got Talent) １

とにかく明るい安村さん①

Join us for the wild show of Tonikaku Akarui ‘Tony’ Yasumura! Laugh till you drop as he recreates his “Britain’s Got Talent” sensational performances – striking comical poses in nothing but underpants.Witness history in the making with the first Japanese finalist’s side-splitting act!
https://www.instagram.com/tonikaku.a.yasumura

17:05~

Anime Cosplay Catwalk

Get ready for a spectacular catwalk on the main stage, showcasing vibrant costumes inspired by iconic Japanese animation and games! Join award-winning cosplayers, professional costume makers, and global representatives for an unforgettable show!

NOT SURE WHAT COSPLAY IS?

Cosplay is a creative hobby rooted in Japan’s anime and games industry; it involves fans dressing up as beloved characters.Over decades, it grew into a global community with thousands of participants, a thriving craft industry, and exciting international competitions. Join the catwalk to discover more!

17:35~

Radio Taiso 3

ラジオ体操 ③

Why not move your body and take part in an exercise routine that has taken on a quintessentially Japanese character? Originally introduced in the 1920s as a way of encouraging improved health, Radio Taiso is now broadcast not just on the radio, but also on television and online. Join the simple exercises that can be done by people of all ages with Noel Thatcher MBE, six-time Paralympian, five-time Paralympic gold medalist, and 2019 Japanese Foreign Minister’s commendation for strengthening Japan-UK relations through sport.

17:40

Naomi Suzuki / Kimetsu No Yaiba

鈴木ナオミ 鬼滅の刃

Brace yourself for an unforgettable performance by Naomi Suzuki, a leading Japanese singer in the UK as she performs two famous theme songs, Homura and Gurenge, from the mega-hit Japanese anime “Kimetsu No Yaiba” with anime cosplayers and her new single “Find Someone Better” which recently hit number #2 in the UK JPOP charts!
https://lit.link/naomisuzuki

18:00~

Sakura Cherry Tree Project Presents “Sakura beauty with Koto and Shakuhachi”

桜ビューティー 琴と尺八

Step into a world of beauty and tradition! Join the Sakura Cherry Tree Project at Japan Matsuri for an enchanting performance inspired by cherry blossoms. The project has planted over 7,000 trees across the UK as a symbol of the friendship between Japan and the UK and as a legacy for future generations. At Japan Matsuri the Koto player Keiko Kitamura, together with her students, and special guest, Justin Senryu Williams on shakuhachi will perform the catchy melody of ‘Sakura Sakura’.

18:30~

TONY YASUMURA & NAOMI SUZUKI JAPAN MATSURI SONG

とにかく明るい安村さん＆鈴木ナオミ＆子供達　& anime cosplayersジャパン祭りソング『IBUKI』

Hold onto your hats (or pants!) as comedic sensation Tony(Tonikaku Akarui)  Yasumura returns to the UK for Japan Matsuri 2023! After finding his claim to fame on this year’s Britain’s Got Talent, Tony has been yearning to come back to perform more of his cheeky antics for the people of London. We are also excited to see him perform Japan Matsuri’s song ‘IBUKI’ this year with our regular performer Naomi Suzuki, Japanese Kids,with anime cosplayers and other performers. We hope to see you all dancing with us on Japan Matsuri!

Japan Matsuri Song IBUKI ⬇️
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6iFFXga7Dw

https://www.instagram.com/tonikaku.a.yasumura
https://twitter.com/tonikakuwearing
https://lit.link/naomisuzuki
https://chelsea-kodomonohiroba.co.uk/

18:55~

Joji Hirota & The London Taiko Drummers

廣田丈自＆ロンドン太鼓

Witness the spectacular return of Joji Hirota & The London Taiko Drummers at Japan Matsuri! Feel the earth-shaking power of huge taiko drums as they showcase intricate rhythms and captivating soundscapes. From traditional beats to global stages, they’ve wowed audiences, including LIVE EARTH at London’s Wembley Stadium with 100 drummers. Take advantage of this remarkable performance celebrating Japanese culture!
https://realworldrecords.com/artists/joji-hirota/