Japan Fest Brings a Celebration of Japanese Culture to the City This July!

Japan Fest Derby is a family-friendly cultural festival celebrating both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. Visitors can expect live performances, hands-on activities, cosplay, cinema screenings, authentic food, unique traders and interactive experiences all under one roof.

Live Stage Performances

The festival stage will host a vibrant lineup throughout the day, including the throwback

glamour and vocals of LJ English, performances from Sara Noh Theatre, traditional Japanese music from AKI on koto, and Hibiki on the Shamisen bringing powerful live instrumentation. Pop culture fans can also enjoy Giuseppe Sessa’s One Piece-inspired “Jolly Roger” guitar performance, alongside DJ Manimal & Cerisina presenting the high-energy Hatsune Miku Glow Stick Experience with anime visuals.

Joining the lineup is acclaimed Japanese vocalist Cyua, recognised for her emotionally powerful vocals featured in globally celebrated works such as Attack on Titan and the Gundam franchise. Known for her collaborations with legendary composer Hiroyuki Sawano, Cyua blends cinematic emotion, ethereal melodies, and expressive vocal performances to create an immersive live experience for anime and music fans alike.

Film Screenings & Entertainment

Visitors looking to relax can head into QUAD’s cinema spaces throughout the day for a selection of Japanese film screenings, including the acclaimed animated feature Ghost Cat Anzu (11:30am–12:55pm), the cult classic Angel’s Egg (1:05pm–2:30pm), and Throne of Blood (3:00pm–4:30pm). Following the festival, an additional screening of Angel’s Egg will take place from 7:00pm–8:15pm, with free entry available to all Japan Fest Derby attendees. The festival blends live entertainment with cinema experiences, making it ideal for families, anime fans and film lovers alike.

Interactive Activities for All Ages

Throughout the day, attendees can take part in a wide range of cultural activities including Go, Shogi, origami, kimono dress-up, fox mask painting and an Akihabara Maid Café experience with Meian Maids. A colourful cosplay parade will also take place, celebrating anime, manga and gaming culture.

Food, Shopping & Traders

Japan Fest Derby will feature stall holders offering Japanese food, quirky crafts, handmade goods and unique finds. Visitors can enjoy Japanese treats while exploring a marketplace inspired by both modern Tokyo and traditional Kyoto.

Promotional Aspects

For more information and ticket purchases, visit the Japan Fest website:

https://www.japanfest.co.uk/derby

Tickets are available via QUAD derby: https://www.derbyquad.co.uk/events/japanfest/

Follow the event on social media for updates, announcements, and behind-the-scenes content:

Instagram: @japanfest_uk

Facebook: Japan Fest UK