Explore the cultures of Japan this half term with a series of free family-friendly activity workshops at Japan House London. Each session invites participants to learn about Japan while getting creative, with activities including origami and creating paper koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks), which are hung outside homes in Japan to celebrate Children’s Day in May.

Create your own koinobori 

On 5 May, in celebration of Kodomo no hi (Children’s Day, originally a celebration for boys and known as Tango-no-sekku), many families in Japan hang koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks) outside their homes. Be inspired by the history and colours of koinobori and use your creativity to colour in the paper template. After completing your design, cut out the template to bring your koinobori to life.

Monday 6 April 2026, 14:30–16:30  (The Library)
Tuesday 7 April 2026, 14:30–16:30 (The Hall)
Saturday 11 April 2026, 14:30–16:30 (The Hall)

Origami

Try your hand at origami, Japanese paper folding. Make a paper helmet (kabuto) based on those worn by Japanese warriors including samurai. or fold an origami frog and see how far you can make it jump.

Tuesday 31 March 2026, 14:30–16:30 (The Library)
Thursday 9 April 2026, 14:30–16:30 (The Library)

Design your own uchikake 

Uchikake are a type of outer kimono worn on formal occasions in Japan, for example by brides on their wedding day. They are usually heavily decorated with a rich array of images and patterns which are often inspired by nature. Take inspiration from the plants and flowers of Japan to design your own uchikake.

Monday 30 March 2026, 14:30–16:30 (The Library)
Friday 10 April 2026, 14:30–16:30 (The Hall)