Upcoming Events

After selling out shows at The Barbican in 2025, Ichiko Aoba's next UK stop on her phenomenal rise will be a headline performance at the Royal Albert Hall on 31 March 2026. The folk sensation has garnered fans from across genres and continents with her dreamy approach to songwriting and stunning multi-instrumental talent.

This event is part of the Japanese Studies series organised in collaboration with the Sainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures (SISJAC) and The Courtauld Institute of Art. The venue will be at Royal Asiatic Society Lecture Theatre.

The Meaning of Life, a solo exhibition by Kenji Yoshida at October Gallery, London, comprises a selection of significant works, spanning the decades between the 1960s and 1990s. Highlights include large-scale works that employ precious metals of gold and silver leaf upon Japanese lacquer and coloured paints on canvas.

Kitazawa Hideta is a traditional Japanese master craftsman, Shinto-temple carver and mask maker for both classical noh and kyogen theatre. During the workshop, Kitazawa will guide participants through all processes of the design and carving of a traditional noh mask. Previous experience of carving, sculpture, or working with wood is not necessary.

At all Saints Parish Church, Leamington Spa, an event will be held themed around Sakura season in Japan. The venue will be adorned with vibrant cherry blossom-themed decorations, in celebration of Japanese culture and there will be a variety of workshops and Japanese food.

Japan Fest Leicester arrives Sunday 26 April at Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium (11–5). Enjoy live music, taiko drumming, J-pop, culture talks, cosplay, kendo, hands-on activities, an appearance by anime voice actor Brian Beacock, Itasha cars, and authentic Japanese street food in a fun, family-friendly setting.

The Sakura Fair is a charity market raising funds for Nakayoshikai, a UK charity supporting Japanese families. Enjoy Japanese food, traditional games, calligraphy workshops, and family-friendly activities, while helping Nakayoshikai continue its work sharing Japanese language and culture in the UK. The fair will be held at Maeda Gakuen Finchley Kindergarten, London N3 1UE.

This is an illustrated lecture that will celebrate and illuminate both the ancient and modern aspects of the Tokaido Road, weaving together various stories from over four centuries of travel. The Tokaido was one of the most important routes of the Edo period (1603-1868) in Japan. The lecture will be taking place at Maidstone Museum, St Faith’s Street.

In this class hosted by Sushi expert and Japanese native Tomono you will learn how to make Sushi Rice, 4 different types of Sushi, from ball shaped Temarizushi to Yukari Homasaki rolls and more! To accompany this, you will also make crispy and juicy pork Gyoza dumplings. As always you will taste everything that you make and take home a generous goodie bag of delicious treats. Suitable for all experience levels.

Roll up your sleeves for a 90-minute, hands-on sushi adventure! Learn to craft four delicious types of authentic sushi in a fun, relaxed setting, perfect for beginners and food lovers alike. No experience needed—just bring your appetite and creativity!