International Japan Festivals Around the World
Japanese culture is popular around the world, and “Japan festivals” are held in many countries.
These events showcase not only pop culture such as anime and manga, but also Japanese food, traditional culture, and even business promotions. They offer a great opportunity to experience Japan outside of Japan—so if you have the chance, definitely try attending one.
In this article, we introduce major Japan festivals held around the world.
🇺🇸 United States
Anime Expo (Los Angeles)
https://www.anime-expo.org/
July 2–5, 2026
One of the largest Japanese pop culture events in the world, focusing on anime, games, and cosplay.
Sakura Matsuri (Washington, D.C.)
https://sakuramatsuri.org/
April 11–12, 2026
A Japanese cultural event held alongside the cherry blossom festival, featuring taiko, kimono, and Japanese food.
🇫🇷 France
Japan Expo (Paris)
https://www.japan-expo-paris.com/
July 9–12, 2026
The largest Japan festival in Europe, featuring both pop culture and traditional culture.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Hyper Japan (London)
https://hyperjapan.co.uk/
July 24–26, 2026
A popular event showcasing Japanese food, anime, and traditional culture.
🇹🇭 Thailand
Japan Expo Thailand (Bangkok)
https://japanexpothailand.com/
February 6–8, 2026
One of the largest Japan-related events in Asia, featuring idols and corporate booths.
Anime Festival Asia (AFA)
https://animefestival.asia/
May 30–31, 2026
🇸🇬 Singapore
Anime Festival Asia (AFA)
https://animefestival.asia/
November 27–29, 2026
A leading anime event in Southeast Asia, featuring official Japanese content and live performances.
🇮🇩 Indonesia
DJAKARTA Ennichi (Jakarta)
https://djakartaennichi.com/
May 23–24, 2026
A cultural event recreating a traditional Japanese summer festival with food stalls and Bon Odori dancing.
Anime Festival Asia (AFA)
https://animefestival.asia/
August 15–16, 2026
🇻🇳 Vietnam
Japan Festival (Ho Chi Minh City, etc.)
https://japan-vietnam-festival.jp/home
March 7–8, 2026
A Japan–Vietnam exchange event featuring culture, tourism, and job-related information.
🇵🇭 Philippines
Otaku Pop Fes 2026 (Manila)
https://www.otakupopfes.com/
April 25–26, 2026
Cebu Bon Odori
https://www.ja-cebu.com/bonodori/
May 16–17, 2026
🇦🇺 Australia
Japan Festival Melbourne (Box Hill)
https://www.jcv-au.org/japanfestival/jf-about-en
May 24, 2026
Matsuri Japan Festival in Chatswood (Sydney)
https://matsurisydney.com/
Usually held in September
Many similar events are held across Australia, focusing on Japanese food, performances, and community activities.
Conclusion
Japan festivals play an important role in sharing Japanese culture with the world.
They are also places where people interested in Japan gather, and for many, they become the first step toward studying or working in Japan.
Why not experience Japan in your own country by visiting a Japan festival?
By Hajime Saito
X: @hajimesaitoYJC