Japan Fest comes to Northampton for the first time with anime, cosplay and traditional culture

Japan Fest debuts in Northampton with a lineup that brings together the traditional and the modern sides of Japan in one event. Organizers confirmed the festival is coming to the city for the first time, after three editions travelling around the East Midlands, and that it will be held at the Northampton Saints stadium.

The idea is to offer a full experience of Japanese culture, with food, music, art and activities for everyone. Manuele Giacone, the organizer, said Northampton had always been on his radar because of the multicultural community and the strong ties with Japanese companies and residents.

From koto to cosplay: a programme for all tastes

The programme includes traditional koto music, Japanese drums, Noh theatre and martial arts demonstrations. Japanese singer-songwriter MION will also perform. For those who want to try something hands-on, there will be origami workshops, kimono dressing, Japanese classes and kendo.

And for those of us who lean more towards anime, Japan Fest doesn't fall short: cosplay, specialist traders and themed experiences inspired by modern Japanese pop culture. It's exactly that balance that sets this festival apart from other conventions more focused only on anime, according to Giacone.

The organizer put it plainly: for them the cultural side is very important and they try to keep it very authentic. That's why it's not unusual to see parents come up to thank them for an event where families and children feel comfortable.

Interest in Japan has grown since the pandemic

Giacone believes interest in Japan has risen a lot in recent years, especially since the pandemic, when many people got hooked on anime, video games and travel shows about the country. "If you like video games or Japanese toys, a lot of that originates in Japan," he said.

In addition to the cultural activities, there will be Japanese food stalls and an outdoor area with Japanese cars. The local Japanese community has also got involved: several residents contacted the organizers to ask how they could take part.

Giacone insisted the event is not just for Japanese people, but for everyone, and that in uncertain times being able to gather for a few hours in a safe environment and celebrate shared interests is worth a lot.