It's time for Hyper Japan 2012 - the UK's biggest celebration of J-Culture from Friday till Sunday at Earl's Court, London.
Kakkoii is the Japanese word for "cool", and it's fair to say that the line-up of food, events, entertainment, books and other goods on sale veers towards the kakkoii, and also the more familiar kawaii (meaning "cute").
The traditional side of Japan isn't neglected though, with stands of pottery, calligraphy, artwork and origami taking part.
Exhibitors I'll be taking a look at include Nintendo (who'll have exclusive 3DS downloadable content), Manga Entertainment, CyberCandy, Namco, Artbox and my beloved Doki Tableware.
Food and groceries will be available from the likes of the Japan Centre, Natural Natural, Minamato Kitchoan, So restaurant and Bento Ramen.
The 2012 Sake Awards and Sushi Awards will also be taking place at Hyper Japan.
For those Harajuku wannabes amongst you, there'll be showcases of the latest in Japanese street fashion - but there'll also be the chance to try on and buy traditional kimonos.
And to immerse yourself properly, there'll even be live music, film showings, autograph signings by J-Pop stars, and cosplay parades and contests.
Tour and travel companies will be on hand to help you plan a trip to the land of the Rising Sun itself.
I'll be going along on Sunday to support the restaurant Tsuru who are competing in the 2012 Sushi Awards. I may be dressed Goth Lolita style.
Tickets for all three days are available at http://www.hyperjapan.co.uk/tickets
Hyper Japan 2012
Friday 24, Saturday 25, Sunday 26 February
Brompton Hall
Earls Court
All photos except the Tsuru logo from Eat Japan/Cross Media
Mimi, was thinking about going to this but the tickets are quite expensive - have you been in previous years? Is it a good crack?
ReplyDeleteKaty, I've never made it to a previous event because I've always been pre-booked or away, but it looks fantastic and I think the line-up makes it worth the £12 entry (think about food festivals).
ReplyDeleteIf you go on Friday though it's only £6 because it doesn't start till 3pm. Or there's a late entry option on Saturday and Sunday.
I had been looking at this too, but had same thought as Katy on ticket prices...
ReplyDeleteWill have a think...
Groupon has a special offer on today - two tickets for only £12
ReplyDeleteHow come we didn't go to Tsuru then, hmm?
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly enjoyed your twitter feed on this - really entertaining and made me want to be there even more. You two looked exceptionally cute.
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ReplyDeletekakoii! :) this looks really fun and interesting. i would want to attend on one of these before, too bad it's so far away.
ReplyDelete