The well-loved Japanese festival returns for its eleventh year running to provide a heartwarming display of cultural pride.
Imagine a beating heart of Japanese culture, music and food in the centre of London, a rich tapestry of thousands of years’ worth of history.
Welcome to Japan Matsuri, the Japanese festival melding the traditional English backdrop of central London with the vibrant lights of Tokyo.
Taking place in Trafalgar Square on the 6th of October 2024, the festival has been long awaited by hundreds of people who flock to the streets each autumn for its dazzling debut.
The cultural tradition has proved popular year upon year since its founding in 2009, and with its free admission, authentic Japanese soul foods and riveting big-stage entertainment, it’s not hard to see why.
Before you head out to enjoy the festivities, there are a few must-need details to keep in mind: arrive early to beat the largest crowds and it is a good idea to take public transport as there is limited parking spaces near the Square during the afternoon.
Don’t forget a pair of comfortable shoes - your feet will certainly thank you for it!
On arrival, we were greeted with the daunting sight of a packed venue, however, the speed of the entrance queue was pleasantly surprising, and we were in within minutes.
Even without the big stage and the brightly coloured stalls huddled around the square, the immediate atmosphere made it clear that this was a wholeheartedly enthusiastic festival.
Just by looking around, we could see people dressed in traditional clothing like kimonos or wearing costumes of famous Japanese characters (Pikachu was a fan favourite, along with other creative cosplayers dressed up as popular anime characters).
Entering the main square, we caught the beginning of an impressive display of Japanese heritage on the big stage, in the form of Ryukyu Kobujutsu, an ancient martial arts practice originating in the Ryukyu Islands of Okinawa.
It’s a celebration primarily of the principles: Kihon (basics), Kata (form) and Kumite (fighting), yet the performers manage to bestow an abundance of energy to each, at first glance, simple movement.
As Karrie Fehilly, fellow festival attendee, remarked, it was “like they were gliding on air.”
By the end of this incredible display of expertise, we were getting hungry, and so, wandering over to the food stalls gathered around the square, we scouted for some traditional cuisine.
There was certainly no lack of selection, and the intermingled smells coming from all angles makes for a truly mouth-watering atmosphere.
For an authentic experience, Hokkaido Ramen is the way to go, offering two types of world-famous ramen from Hokkaido (Japan’s second largest island), but for a small snack to keep you going, head over to Japan Centre, where you can feast on the delicious Karaage (Japanese style fried chicken).
If it’s sweet treats you crave, MATCHADO, a premium Japanese tea cafe that specialises in matcha-infused baked goods, is the place to be.
We tasted their award-winning brownies, cookies and dorayaki (traditional Japanese pancakes with a delicious filling) alongside a cold, refreshing matcha beverage.
Feeling rejuvenated from our lunch break, we headed back to the main stage to enjoy a display of Okinawan heritage from the London Okinawa Sanshinkai, an incredibly energetic group of performers dedicated to playing traditional Okinawan music using the taiko (stick drums) and the sanshin (a type of lute).
And for a finale we were glad not to miss, LJ English, a British singer with a love for Japanese culture, performed the renowned “Matsuken Samba”.
English has a particular love for Enka, a Japanese music genre popularised following the end of World War II with the 1949 song “Kappa boogie-woogie" by Queen of Enka, Hibari Misora.
Its captivating vibrato vocal technique and link to traditional Japanese music was a fitting end to a long but gratifying day.
Finally, we couldn’t return home without a souvenir.
For a unique present you’ll want to take home, check out Doki Ltd, selling exquisite ceramic tableware such as bowls, plates and cups; or perhaps The Duchess of Candles stall will pique your interest with its whimsical collection of coloured candles in Japanese teacups.
While this experience was truly electrifying, and the mood was incredible, be warned that there are often huge crowds flocking to Trafalgar Square during the festival times, which can make the occasion a little overwhelming, and it was hard to fully enjoy the atmosphere.
However, the sheer amount of people appreciating the Japanese culture, food and art is testament to this event’s well-earned popularity, and the bright, busy climate of people all delighting in our city’s diversity is truly a joy to see.
Japan Matsuri will return next year.
