MAIN STAGE PERFORMERS
10:00~10:50
Joji Hirota and The London Taiko Drummers
廣田丈自＆ロンドン太鼓
Don’t miss Joji Hirota and The London Taiko Drummers at Japan Matsuri!
From traditional beats to global stages, they’ve wowed audiences, including LIVE EARTH at London’s Wembley Stadium with 100 drummers.
Experience the power of Japanese traditional and contemporary taiko drumming.
Japan Matsuri song IBUKI / Naomi Suzuki with Chelsea Kodomo no Hiroba & Young Stars
ジャパン祭りソング『息吹』：鈴木ナオミと子供達
Did you know that Japan Matsuri has a signature song?
Catch the Japan Matsuri song “IBUKI” performed by Naomi Suzuki with Chelsea Kodomo no Hiroba & 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://lit.link/naomisuzuki https://chelsea-kodomonohiroba.co.uk/
Photo: Gregory Owain
Opening Ceremony
オープニングセレモニー
Japan Matsuri will be officially launched by the Chairman of Japan Matsuri Executive Committee and Ambassador of Japan, who will lead a traditional Japanese kagami biraki, or ceremonial opening of a sake barrel, accompanied by many distinguished guests.
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
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 carried around the square. If you hear the shouts of ‘Wasshoi! Wasshoi!’ you know you are in the right place! See you there for this unforgettable time!
* Provided by Teikyo School United Kingdom
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
10:50~11:30
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!
Radio Taiso 1
ラジオ体操
Get moving with Radio Taiso, a classic Japanese exercise routine! First introduced in the 1920s, Radio Taiso is now a staple across Japan, featured on radio, TV, and online. It’s been practiced in schools, parks, and even festivals, making it a perfect way to refresh both your mind and body!
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
Shiranamikai Karate
英国空手白浪会
Don’t miss Shiranamikai Karate at Japan Matsuri! Watch The Japan Karate Association demonstrate authentic Shotokan karate, with a superb track record of developing motivated and enthusiastic students of all ages. Discover the rich world of Karate in action. Thinking of starting your own journey?
This is the perfect opportunity to get inspired!
11:30~12:30
The SOAS Min’yō Group
SOAS 民謡グループ
We’re excited to welcome The SOAS Min’yō Group to Japan Matsuri! Formed by Dr David Hughes, this awesome UK-based group loves teaching and performing traditional Japanese music. Get ready for a musical journey with shamisen, shakuhachi, and lots of audience participation. Enjoy a mix of charming min’yō (folk songs) from Japan.
https://x.com/SOAS_Minyo
RiRuHa
莉月桜
Are you familiar with Japanese Tango? For the first time in Japan Matsuri, enjoy relaxing tunes inspired by the God of Wind and the God of Passion with RiRuHa! This unique band features Izumi on Japanese bamboo flute and Megumi Tsuchiya (Meme) on button accordion.
Catch them at Japan Matsuri and see their original remake costumes and handmade flutes in action. They’ve even performed at international conferences like APEC and the UN!
Kendo demonstration by Wakaba Kendo Club
若葉剣道クラブ
Don’t miss the Kendo demonstration by the Wakaba Kendo Club! Founded in 1993 and based in Hoxton, Shoreditch, Wakaba is the largest children’s kendo dojo in London!
“Wakaba” means “new shoots” of a plant or tree in Japanese. It stands for careful cultivation of the young student’s development with dedicated, experienced and qualified instructors.
12:30~13:30
Mikoshi Procession
神輿
Look out for the mikoshi, a portable shrine with a phoenix on top, which will be carried around the square. If you hear the shouts of ‘Wasshoi! Wasshoi!’ you know you are in the right place! See you there for this unforgettable time!
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
(LICO) London International Concert Orchestra
ロンドンインターナショナルコンサートオーケストラ
London International Concert Orchestra (LICO), a group of dedicated musicians that come from diverse backgrounds and professions, bring their uniquely high-level performance to Japan Matsuri 2024! LICO’s performance this year includes excerpts from Super Mario Galaxy, Ghibli anime themes and NHK Period Drama “Sanada-Maru”. Don’t miss your chance to join in with their sing-along rendition of “Hana wa Saku”!
Photo: Makoto Iwakami
Radio Taiso
ラジオ体操
Get moving with Radio Taiso, a classic Japanese exercise routine! First introduced in the 1920s, Radio Taiso is now a staple across Japan, featured on radio, TV, and online. It’s been practiced in schools, parks, and even festivals, making it a perfect way to refresh both your mind and body!
Photo: Makoto Iwakami
Hidekazu Ichinose Part1
市瀬秀和
For the first time in Japan Matsuri, watch “The art of the Japanese Sword” presented by Hidekazu Ichinose! A sword-master involved in kabuki performances, primarily focusing on acting and choreography, including in New Kabuki “Naruto” and “Super Kabuki II ONE PIECE”. His performance is a hybrid of traditional kenjitsu (sword play) and modern performance.
Don’t miss this unique performance showcasing the art of Japanese sword!
13:30~14:15
LJ English
For the first time in Japan Matsuri, introducing LJ English, a UK-born singer with a love for Japanese music! He specialises in Showa Kayoukyoku covers from the 1950s to the 1980s and tours globally, mesmerising audiences at Japan-themed festivals. He’s also been featured on Tokyo TV’s “The Karaoke Battle.” Known for his energetic performances and dazzling costumes, LJ English delivers captivating shows worldwide.
Yuriko Kotani Stand-up comedy
コタニユリコ／スタンドアップコメディー
Yuriko Kotani is a UK-based Japanese comedian. She was named as ‘one to
watch’ by Time Out and won the BBC New Comedy Award in 2015. She appeared
on Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central, Pls Like (BBC3), Paul Hollywood Eats
Japan (C4), Mandy (BBC2), Sorry, I Didn’t Know (ITV) and Comedy Central Live.
On radio she has guested on The Comedy Club (BBC Radio 4 Extra), BBC World
Service’s The Arts Hour International New Year Comedy Celebration, The Verb
(BBC Radio 3), Loose Ends (BBC Radio 4) and Tudur Owen: United Nations of
Anglesey (BBC Radio 4).
Penguin invited her to be a part of the ‘Audio Comedy Festival Edinburgh Unlocked’.
Yuriko worked with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office to make videos for Rugby World Cup 2019,
detailing her top tips for rugby fans travelling to Japan.
Ryukyu Kobujutsu
琉球古武術
We will be joined by Shihan Julian Mead, a 7th Dan master in Ryukyu Kobujyutsu! Trained in Japan under Grandmaster Motokatsu Inoue, Shihan Julian Mead has 37 years of experience teaching authentic bujutsu worldwide. Watch as he demonstrates the art of Ryukyu (Okinawan) traditional weapons, showcasing Kihon (basics), Kata (form), and Kumite (fighting), and highlighting the unique features of each weapon.
14:15~15:30
London Okinawa Sanshinkai
ロンドン沖縄三線会
Get ready to celebrate cultural diversity and Okinawan heritage with the London Okinawa Sanshinkai! A group of enthusiasts dedicated to Okinawan folk and classical music and traditional dance, using the sanshin (a 3 stringed lute), taiko (stick drums), sanba (like a castanet) and sometimes other instruments like the koto and fue (flute).
Awa Odori (Japan Association in the UK)
阿波踊り（英国日本人会）
Awa Odori is coming to Japan Matsuri!
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! We invite everyone to dance with us and make unforgettable memories at this year’s Matsuri!
https://www.japanassociation.org.uk
Aikido with London Aikikai
ロンドン合気会
Get ready for an exciting display by London Aikikai, which is the oldest Aikido club in London! TK Chiba Shihan, a direct student of the funder of the Aikido, opened the first London Aikikai dojo in 1968. Watch them demonstrate dynamic Aikido techniques, including sword vs. sword and stick vs. stick.
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
15:30~16:30
Ready Singer One
レディー・シンガー・ワン
Ready Singer One, the UK’s nerdiest vocal ensemble, joins Japan Matsuri for the first time to present a dazzling singing performance of your favourite Japanese songs from anime and video games ! With high-energy renditions of much-loved songs from Pokemon, Attack on Titan, and more, prepare to be bathed in a wonderful four-part-harmony of Japanese pop culture hits.
Radio Taiso
ラジオ体操
Get moving with Radio Taiso, a classic Japanese exercise routine! First introduced in the 1920s, Radio Taiso is now a staple across Japan, featured on radio, TV, and online. It’s been practiced in schools, parks, and even festivals, making it a perfect way to refresh both your mind and body!
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
The Heat
ザ・ヒート
This is a special one – experience the energy of a Japanese rock band for the first time in this year’s Japan Matsuri! With a lifelong passion for the Rolling Stones, The Heat brings a unique blend of classic British rock and distinct Japanese roots.
Yuriko Kotani Stand-up comedy
コタニユリコ／スタンドアップコメディー
Yuriko Kotani is a UK-based Japanese comedian. She was named as ‘one to
watch’ by Time Out and won the BBC New Comedy Award in 2015. She appeared
on Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central, Pls Like (BBC3), Paul Hollywood Eats
Japan (C4), Mandy (BBC2), Sorry, I Didn’t Know (ITV) and Comedy Central Live.
On radio she has guested on The Comedy Club (BBC Radio 4 Extra), BBC World
Service’s The Arts Hour International New Year Comedy Celebration, The Verb
(BBC Radio 3), Loose Ends (BBC Radio 4) and Tudur Owen: United Nations of
Anglesey (BBC Radio 4).
Penguin invited her to be a part of the ‘Audio Comedy Festival Edinburgh Unlocked’.
Yuriko worked with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office to make videos for Rugby World Cup 2019, detailing her top tips for rugby fans travelling to Japan.
16:30~17:45
Yosakoi London Temuzu Japanese Dance Team
よさこいロンドン天夢手
Catch Yosakoi London Temuzu in action!
What is “Yosakoi”? “Yosakoi” is a Japanese dance style that combines elements of traditional Japanese dance and music with a variety of modern-day influences. With this energetic dance, the London based vibrant Japanese dance group is sure to light up the stage at Japan Matsuri, don’t miss out!
KIMONODEGO with Hiroko Tanaka Nichibu Team
田中弘子日舞チーム
Join us for the elegance of Nihon Buyo, Japanese Dance, at Japan Matsuri! With influences from Kabuki, Noh, and folk dance, plus European and American trends, this showcase is sponsored by KIMONODEGO. Witness the fusion of traditional and Western styles in beautiful kimonos. Don’t miss this enchanting performance!
Photo: Mayumi Hirata
Anime Cosplay Catwalk Show
アニメコスプレ キャットウォーク
Join us for a colourful catwalk on the main stage, showcasing fan-made costumes inspired by Japan’s most popular animation and games! This year’s show includes a tribute to the late Akira Toriyama, legendary manga artist and designer.
PLUS, our cosplay team is attempting to beat the World Record for the most people doing the “Kamehameha” from Dragon Ball, and we need your help! Head to the main stage and be part of the action! Let’s make history together!
17:45~19:00
Radio Taiso
ラジオ体操
Get moving with Radio Taiso, a classic Japanese exercise routine! First introduced in the 1920s, Radio Taiso is now a staple across Japan, featured on radio, TV, and online. It’s been practiced in schools, parks, and even festivals, making it a perfect way to refresh both your mind and body!
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
Naomi Suzuki (Anime song VS City-pop)
鈴木ナオミ／アニメソング VS 昭和歌謡
“UK J-pop Chart-topping singer” Naomi Suzuki graces the stage once more to perform thrilling covers of iconic Anime songs “Ado-New Genesis (UTA from ONE PIECE FILM RED) & Gurenge from Kimetsu no Yaiba” and City-pop song “Purple Town” alongside sensational Japanese rock band “The Heat”! And not only that — world champion social dancer Sakurako Tanaka will be joining her on stage in a dream collaboration you won’t want to miss at this year’s Japan Matsuri!
Hidekazu Ichinose Part 2
市瀬秀和
For the first time in Japan Matsuri, watch “The art of the Japanese Sword” presented by Hidekazu Ichinose! A sword-master involved in kabuki performances, primarily focusing on acting and choreography, including in New Kabuki “Naruto” and “Super Kabuki II ONE PIECE”. His performance is a hybrid of traditional kenjitsu (sword play) and modern performance.
Don’t miss this unique performance showcasing the art of Japanese sword!
Ryoichi Hirano - Talk show
平野亮一トークショー
Japanese dancer Ryoichi Hirano is a Principal of The Royal Ballet. He joined the Company as a Prix de Lausanne apprentice in 2001 and became an Artist in 2002, promoted to First Artist in 2007, Soloist in 2008, First Soloist in 2012 and Principal in 2016.
Hirano was born in Osaka and trained at Setsuko Hirano Ballet School. Awards include the 2001 Prix de Lausanne Gold Medal. His repertory with The Royal Ballet includes Rasputin (Anastasia Act III) Albrecht (Giselle), Prince Siegfried (Swan Lake), Prince Florimund (The Sleeping Beauty), Leontes and Powlixenes (The Winter’s Tale), Espada and Gamache (Don Quixote), Tybalt, Paris and Romeo (Romeo and Juliet), Onegin (Onegin), Jean de Brienne (Raymonda Act III), Crown Prince Rudolf (Mayerling), Prince (The Prince of the Pagodas, The Nutcracker), Rasputin and Officer (Anastasia), Witch (Hansel and Gretel), Robert Wood (Sweet Violets), Black Knight (Checkmate), Dr Samuel-Jean Pozzi (Strapless), Soldier (Different Drummer), Human (‘Still Life’ at the Penguin Café), Fate (Acosta’s Carmen), Creature (Frankenstein), Solor, Lt. Colonel Vershinin (Winter Dreams), Ivan Tsarevich (The Firebird) and roles in Corybantic Games, Elite Syncopations, After the Rain, Woolf Works, Song of the Earth, The Two Pigeons, Gloria, Concerto, Chroma, Viscera, ‘Emeralds’ and ‘Diamonds’ (Jewels), Serenade, DGV: Danse à grande vitesse, Scènes de ballet, Voluntaries, Cinderella, Aeternum Within The Golden Hour, Multiverse, Medusa and Corybantic Games.
Hirano’s role creations for the Company include in Gemma Bond’s Boundless, Asphodel Meadows and in Wayne McGregor’s The Dante Project, Infra and Obsidian Tear.
https://www.rbo.org.uk/people/ryoichi-hirano
Sakura Cherry Tree Project Presents “Sakura beauty with Koto and Noh dance”
桜ビューティー 琴と能
The Sakura Cherry Tree Project has to date planted over 7,000 trees across the UK as a symbol of the friendship between Japan and the UK. Inspired by the beauty of the Sakura cherry blossoms, the Koto players, Keiko Kitamura, Masako Onishi and special guest Ichiro Takabatake from Japan will play some beautiful Japanese
music accompanied by Sakurako Tanaka (Japanese Noh practitioner, also from Japan) who will perform a dance, choreographed by Sakurako and her master, Gasho Yamanaka, specifically for Japan Matsuri 2024! Don’t miss this rare performance!
Photo: Makoto Kawakami
19:00~20:00 Finale
Matsuken Samba ＋ Japan Matsuri song LJ English+Naomi Suzuki + Kids
マツケンサンバ＋ジャパン祭りソング『IBUKI』
Japan Matsuri 2024 will conclude with the famous “Matsuken Samba” performed by LJ English (a British Enka singer) and energetic dancers. Let’s dance together and liven up the Japan Matsuri for one last performance of Matsuken Samba! We are also excited to see him perform Japan Matsuri’s song ‘IBUKI’ this year with our regular
performer Naomi Suzuki, the Japanese Kids from Chelsea Kodomo no Hiroba, and other performers. We hope to see you all dancing with us at Japan Matsuri!
Joji Hirota and The London Taiko Drummers
廣田丈自＆ロンドン太鼓
Don’t miss Joji Hirota and The London Taiko Drummers at Japan Matsuri!
From traditional beats to global stages, they’ve wowed audiences, including LIVE EARTH at London’s Wembley Stadium with 100 drummers.
Experience the power of Japanese traditional and contemporary taiko drumming.