On the 2nd of May, Sheffield’s Japan Society will offer an afternoon of Japanese Cultural experience at the Octagon.
First beginning in 2011 after the great East Japan earthquake as a fundraising event to support those affected, the event has grown into the society’s biggest annual event, involving workshops on tea making, calligraphy, flower arranging, poetry, drumming and much more.
The event also features performances throughout the day, including classical koto pieces from Akiharu Kitagawa, a graduate of the Sawai Koto institute in Tokyo. The Kaminari UK Taiko drummers will also return, showcasing Japanese folklore through full-length theatre performances and percussion. Okinawan dance is on display, as performed by the London Okinawa Sanshinkai, who showcase stories of love, history and nature through movement.
However, if you want to take a bite out of Japan, there’s plenty on offer. The team at Let’s Sushi are dedicated to serving quality sushi and gyoza, while pop-up street food group Osaka local serve authentic mochi donuts and Okonomiyaki, the popular savoury pancake from Osaka. Author of The Art of Mixing Koji Cocktails and leading drinks developer Samuel Boulton will be delivering a modern mixology masterclass, with traditional sake and shochu.
For those fashion lovers, Sakura Fashion creates handmade accessories with care and sustainability in mind, showcasing the artistic establishment of Japan in meaningful and purposeful design. They pair with an extensive kimono display, preserving and sharing designs and fabrics from traditional methods and styles.
Come and take part in the Ryukyu tea ceremony, which uses roasted rice and mineral rich water to create distinctive bubbles and flavour. Or perhaps give the art of self-expression through calligraphy a go under Shodo Raku school teacher Shuen. Aikido instruction, a martial art known for its focus on self-defence, is also on offer, if learning a few katas in the afternoon is more up your street.
For more information on Japan Day, head to the official website or follow the society on Instagram.
