Upcoming Events

A forum bringing together policy architects, financial institutions, and institutional investors from both the UK and Japan to examine how transition finance, an approach pioneered by Japan and rapidly gaining global attention, can mobilise capital for decarbonisation. Hosted at Nomura International in London the event offers an exploration of the financial tools shaping a low‑carbon future.

The event takes place on Friday 26 June, 6–9pm, at OEB Architects in Hackney, London. It includes readings, a Q&A, and refreshments celebrating the first UK publication dedicated to architect Kazuo Shinohara. Artist Michaela Nettell presents her newly published artist's book bringing together responses to the 1961 Umbrella House by international practitioners working across fine art, filmmaking, creative writing, architecture, and Japanese calligraphy. Central to the event is a conversation on home and belonging between former inhabitant of Umbrella House Kyoko Hanawa (Emi Kawai) and writer-curator Yuki Sumner.

This exhibition celebrates the craft traditions of Fukuoka, in southern Japan, a region renowned for its ceramics, textiles, tea, incense, and agricultural heritage. From February, a curated selection of objects and textiles from the region will be on display. The programme is accompanied by a series of tea-related talks and events, exploring the connections between tea, tradition, and making.

A one‑night‑only celebration of Japanese culture featuring live calligraphy by Setsuhi Shiraishi and Tsugaru shamisen performed by Hibiki Ichikawa. Set inside St Katharine Cree Church in London, the evening offers a blend of art, music, and tradition, with premium Japanese sake available for purchase.

Japanese Summer Festival (Matsuri) returns 28 June 2026 at Sefton Park’s Palm House in Liverpool. Free event featuring koto, taiko, martial arts, kimono, ikebana, crafts, activities, and Japanese food, supported by cultural organisations.

Want to create a “piece of Japan” in your own garden? Yoko Kawaguchi will describe the history of smaller-sized gardens in Japan. Followed by contributions from UK based designers: Ai Hishii, Masa Taniguchi & Howard Healey. Includes workshops on garden design, ikebana and bonsai.

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!

NODA MAP returns to Sadler’s Wells Theatre after sell-out shows A Night At The Kabuki (2022) and Love In Action (2024). Written and Directed by the founder of NODA MAP Hideki Noda, – 320°F is a Faustian descent through myth, memory and other bad ideas. Starring Sadawo Abe, Suzu Hirose, Eri Fukatsu, among others, the production will be performed in Japanese with English subtitles.

Eikoku Maeda Gakuen is a Japanese kindergarten in London, and this year it will host its 33rd Japanese Cultural Summer Festival at Acton Yochien in London. The event features Yamagata’s Hanagasa Odori, with a theme of “Yamagata” and “Rice.” Visitors can enjoy food stalls, dance, games, a raffle, and performances, making it a lively celebration of Japanese culture.

Japan Fest Derby takes place in Derby Market Place, offering a full day of Japanese culture with food stalls, crafts, performances, anime-themed activities, and family‑friendly experiences. It highlights traditional and modern Japan through workshops, entertainment, and local community participation.