Japan Matsuri 2024
2024/10/6
On 6 October, the 14th Japan Matsuri was held at Trafalgar Square, London, with more than 30,000 throughout the day despite a little rainy weather.
At the opening ceremony, Ambassador HAYASHI Hajime expressed his hope that the strong bonds and ties between Japan and the UK, symbolised by the State Visit to the UK by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress in June this year, would be further strengthened, and that this event held at the heart of London would further contribute to the diversity, inclusiveness and cosmopolitan culture.
Among the executive guests, Catherine West MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Indo-Pacific), stated that, the UK and Japan were friends like no other, and that this event would be an opportunity to share their ties and the values between the two countries. Councillor Robert Rigby, Lord Mayor of Westminster, expressed his delight at being able to hold the event in the city of Westminster and his heartfelt welcome as someone who also had a personal connection with Japan.
In addition to a wide range of stage performances, from traditional Japanese culture such as Wadaiko (Japanese drumming) and martial arts, to pop culture such as anime songs and cosplay, there was also stand-up comedy performed by Yuriko Kotani, a UK-based comedian, and an interview with seven dancers of The Royal Ballet, including Principal Dancers Ryoichi Hirano and Akane Takada. Around 50 stalls also participated in the Matsuri, providing a lively atmosphere throughout the day. Visitors could sample local specialities from all over Japan, try some Japanese cultural activities, and get tourist information on various Japanese regions.
At the opening ceremony, Ambassador HAYASHI Hajime expressed his hope that the strong bonds and ties between Japan and the UK, symbolised by the State Visit to the UK by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress in June this year, would be further strengthened, and that this event held at the heart of London would further contribute to the diversity, inclusiveness and cosmopolitan culture.
Among the executive guests, Catherine West MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Indo-Pacific), stated that, the UK and Japan were friends like no other, and that this event would be an opportunity to share their ties and the values between the two countries. Councillor Robert Rigby, Lord Mayor of Westminster, expressed his delight at being able to hold the event in the city of Westminster and his heartfelt welcome as someone who also had a personal connection with Japan.
In addition to a wide range of stage performances, from traditional Japanese culture such as Wadaiko (Japanese drumming) and martial arts, to pop culture such as anime songs and cosplay, there was also stand-up comedy performed by Yuriko Kotani, a UK-based comedian, and an interview with seven dancers of The Royal Ballet, including Principal Dancers Ryoichi Hirano and Akane Takada. Around 50 stalls also participated in the Matsuri, providing a lively atmosphere throughout the day. Visitors could sample local specialities from all over Japan, try some Japanese cultural activities, and get tourist information on various Japanese regions.