Japanese Festivals
Festivals hold immense importance in Japanese culture, serving as a means to preserve ancient traditions, foster community bonding, and express spirituality. With strong seasonal connections and cultural significance, these events provide a unique experience for both locals and tourists. Festivals here at Dear Asia are celebrated with our students, while some events are open for the public. We take the opportunity of such celebration to offer an educational and immersive experience to all, with the aim to bring happiness, unity and a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Hanami Matsuri
The cherry blossom festival, embraces spring’s arrival. Amid blooming sakura, people gather for picnics, music, and cultural festivities. It’s a vibrant celebration of nature’s beauty and renewal.
Tsukimi
Tsukimi, the autumn moon-viewing festival, gathers friends and families under the full moon’s glow. Enjoying dango rice dumplings and seasonal treats, it’s a time to appreciate nature’s beauty.
Setsuban
Setsubun, heralding spring on February 3rd or 4th, is a festive ritual. Bean-throwing symbolizes dispelling negativity, inviting blessings. Families gather, embracing the transition with joy, traditional foods, and fortune-seeking.
Tanabata
Tanabata, celebrated on July 7th, honors the Weaver and Cowherd’s mythical love. People write wishes on colorful paper, adorning bamboo branches. Festivities bring a magical atmosphere with parades and cultural events.
Obon Festival
Held in summer, is a serene and poignant ritual. Lanterns are set adrift on water, guiding spirits’ journey. It’s a time of reflection, remembrance, and honoring departed loved ones.
Kodomo no hi
Celebrated on May 5th, showcases children’s vitality. Carp streamers flutter for boys, dolls for girls, symbolizing strength and prosperity. It’s a festive display of growth and joy.
Hanami matsuri
The cherry blossom festival, embraces spring’s arrival. Amid blooming sakura, people gather for picnics, music, and cultural festivities. It’s a vibrant celebration of nature’s beauty and renewal.
Tsukimi
Tsukimi, the autumn moon-viewing festival, gathers friends and families under the full moon’s glow. Enjoying dango rice dumplings and seasonal treats, it’s a time to appreciate nature’s beauty.
Setsuban
Setsubun, heralding spring on February 3rd or 4th, is a festive ritual. Bean-throwing symbolizes dispelling negativity, inviting blessings. Families gather, embracing the transition with joy, traditional foods, and fortune-seeking.
Tanabata
Tanabata, celebrated on July 7th, honors the Weaver and Cowherd’s mythical love. People write wishes on colorful paper, adorning bamboo branches. Festivities bring a magical atmosphere with parades and cultural events.
Obon Festival
Held in summer, is a serene and poignant ritual. Lanterns are set adrift on water, guiding spirits’ journey. It’s a time of reflection, remembrance, and honoring departed loved ones.
Kodomo No Hi
Celebrated on May 5th, showcases children’s vitality. Carp streamers flutter for boys, dolls for girls, symbolizing strength and prosperity. It’s a festive display of growth and joy.
Japanese traditions
Japanese traditions are a cornerstone of the nation’s identity, woven through its history, values, and daily life. Rooted in a profound connection to nature, customs like cherry blossom viewing and the Tanabata festival celebrate this reverence. The tea ceremony embodies harmony and mindfulness, echoing Zen philosophy. Traditional arts such as ikebana, origami, and calligraphy showcase aesthetic finesse and cultural depth. Martial arts like kendo and judo foster discipline and respect. Cuisine like sushi mirrors balance and tradition. Amid modernity, these traditions remain vital in fostering a sense of continuity and cultural pride for Japanese people, and Dear Asia would like to share them with you in our cultural workshops throughout the year.
Washoku, the traditional Japanese dietary culture, embodies harmony, balance, and respect for nature. With an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, it fosters physical well-being and spiritual connection. The artful presentation, meticulous preparation, and mindful consumption of washoku reflect Japan’s deep cultural values, making it not just a way of eating, but a holistic lifestyle that brings people together while honoring the land’s bounty. In 2013, UNESCO recognized washoku as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, further highlighting its significance.
Sake, Japan’s revered rice wine, is a product of meticulous craftsmanship. Produced through fermentation, it varies in flavor and aroma, offering a glimpse into different regions and brewing methods. Often enjoyed at celebrations, it embodies Japanese tradition and culture, fostering camaraderie and shared moments of appreciation.
Chado, the Way of Tea, is an intricate ritual centered around matcha, powdered green tea. It’s a harmonious practice embodying respect, purity, and tranquility. The preparation and consumption of matcha during tea ceremonies symbolize mindfulness and unity, transcending mere refreshment to become a profound cultural experience that connects participants with each other and the essence of nature.
Kombucha, a fermented tea beverage, blends ancient tradition with modern health trends. Created through the fermentation of sweetened tea by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), it offers probiotics and a tangy flavor profile. Embraced for its potential digestive and immune benefits, kombucha has become a popular choice for wellness-conscious consumers.
Japanese bento decoration is an artful practice that transforms packed meals into visual delights. With intricate arrangements of colorful ingredients, from vegetables to rice, bento boxes become whimsical creations. It showcases creativity and care, often portraying characters, animals, or seasonal motifs, making each meal an experience that combines aesthetics and nourishment.
Ikebana is a captivating expression of Japanese aesthetics through floral arrangement. Rooted in Zen philosophy, it emphasizes harmony, balance, and simplicity. Using minimal elements, each arrangement embodies the beauty of nature and the transience of life. Kado Ikebana reflects the profound connection between art and nature, enriching spaces with serenity and elegance.
Shodo, the Way of Calligraphy, is a captivating Japanese art form that unites writing and visual expression. With a brush and ink, characters come to life on paper, reflecting the essence of words and emotions. The deliberate strokes and graceful flow of Shodo reflect discipline, mindfulness, and aesthetic sensitivity, making it a revered practice that bridges language and art in a single stroke.
Japanese origami is an enchanting paper-folding art that transforms sheets into intricate sculptures. With precise folds, animals, objects, and more emerge from simple paper. Beyond creativity, origami reflects patience, focus, and mindfulness. Rooted in tradition, it embodies Japan’s aesthetic sensibility and reverence for craftsmanship, making it a cherished cultural expression admired worldwide.
Kintsugi and wabi-sabi are profound Japanese philosophies. Kintsugi repairs broken pottery with gold lacquer, celebrating flaws as part of an object’s history. Wabi-sabi embraces imperfection, finding beauty in the natural cycle of growth and decay. Both concepts reflect Japan’s respect for authenticity, impermanence, and the intrinsic value of things. They transcend aesthetics, fostering appreciation for life’s complexities and the passage of time through art and mindful living.
Sashiko, a traditional Japanese embroidery, stitches beauty into functional textiles. With intricate patterns, it reinforces fabric and showcases artistic precision. Beyond aesthetics, sashiko embodies rural heritage, resourcefulness, and the value of practicality. This craft weaves stories of community and history through its delicate threads, symbolizing creativity and resilience.
Furoshiki, an eco-friendly Japanese tradition, transforms cloth into versatile wrapping. With folding techniques, it envelops gifts, groceries, or objects, replacing disposable materials. Rooted in efficiency and sustainability, furoshiki embodies resourcefulness and aesthetic charm. This practice reflects Japan’s values of minimalism, conservation, and the integration of everyday beauty into functional items, fostering a greener lifestyle.
A Zen garden is a tranquil sanctuary embodying meditation and simplicity. Combining meticulously raked gravel, stones, and carefully placed vegetation, it reflects nature’s essence in miniature. With quiet contemplation, Zen gardens offer a space for inner reflection, mindfulness, and a harmonious connection to the natural world, mirroring the profound philosophies of Zen Buddhism.
Kendo, the Way of the Sword, is a Japanese martial art that goes beyond physical combat. Practitioners engage in sparring with bamboo swords (shinai), focusing on discipline, respect, and mental development. Rooted in samurai traditions, kendo hones both body and mind, fostering qualities like honor, humility, and perseverance through dedicated training and competition.
Shinrin Yoku, or forest bathing, is a Japanese practice rooted in nature appreciation. By immersing in forests and connecting with the environment, it promotes physical and mental well-being. Beyond leisure, it taps into Japan’s affinity for harmony, fostering rejuvenation, mindfulness, and a deeper relationship with the natural world.
Geisha, traditional Japanese entertainers, exude grace and artistry. Their refined skills include music, dance, and conversation, enriching cultural events. Adorned in elaborate kimonos and distinct hairstyles, they represent Japan’s historical elegance. Beyond entertainment, geisha embody etiquette, poise, and dedication to preserving cultural heritage, making them enigmatic figures that continue to captivate and inspire.
Kimono and yukata are iconic Japanese garments that reflect cultural heritage and fashion. Kimono, a formal attire, boasts intricate designs and layers. Yukata, a lighter and more casual version, is often worn during summer festivals. Both garments showcase traditional craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities. Their graceful draping evokes Japan’s elegance, while patterns and colors tell stories of seasons, occasions, and personal expression.
Sumo wrestling, Japan’s ancient sport, is a grand display of power and tradition. Wrestlers, or rikishi, compete to push their opponents out of a circular ring or make them touch the ground. Rooted in ritual and discipline, sumo embodies Japan’s cultural heritage and showcases the unique blend of athleticism and ceremony.
Kabuki, Japan’s traditional theater form, combines elaborate costumes, dynamic performances, and stylized makeup. With historical roots, it stages stories from samurai legends to contemporary tales. Featuring exaggerated gestures and dramatic narratives, kabuki captivates audiences while reflecting Japan’s artistic legacy and its timeless commitment to storytelling, culture, and entertainment.
Onsen, Japan’s therapeutic hot springs, offer relaxation and healing in scenic settings. These geothermal wonders are embraced for their mineral-rich waters and health benefits. Beyond physical rejuvenation, onsen experiences provide an escape from daily life, fostering reflection and mindfulness. Rooted in Japanese culture, onsen immersion embodies the nation’s respect for nature’s gifts and well-being.
Kendama, a traditional Japanese skill toy, is a test of coordination and dexterity. Consisting of a wooden ball and a handle with cups and spikes, it’s a game of balance and precision. Popular among all ages, kendama embodies perseverance, focus, and the joy of mastering intricate tricks, reflecting Japan’s appreciation for craftsmanship and skillful play.
Daruma dolls are symbols of perseverance and goal-setting in Japanese culture. Traditionally, one eye is painted in when setting a goal, and the other when it’s achieved. If difficulties arise, Daruma serves as a reminder to stay focused. These dolls embody determination and resilience, reflecting Japan’s emphasis on personal growth and overcoming challenges.
Okiagari Koboshi, or self-righting doll, is a charming Japanese toy that always returns to an upright position when tilted. Crafted from papier-mâché, it symbolizes resilience and tenacity. Often given as gifts for luck and perseverance, these dolls remind us to stand up after setbacks, making them not just playful figures, but also emblems of determination and unwavering spirit.
Riichi Mahjong, a popular Japanese variant of the classic game, is a blend of strategy, skill, and luck. Played with tiles adorned with intricate characters and symbols, it demands careful planning and tactical decision-making. Each player assembles melds and sets to form winning hands, resulting in an engaging and competitive experience. Riichi Mahjong is a cultural pastime that reflects Japan’s love for intricate games and social interaction.
Our Cultural Workshops
At Dear Asia London, we proudly serve as the epicenter of Japanese culture in the heart of London. Our dedication lies in offering a diverse array of cultural workshops year-round. Our mission? To celebrate the depth and authenticity of Japanese culture, highlighting its vibrant festivals and revered traditions. Our meticulously curated events and workshops aim not only to showcase the exquisite facets of Japanese culture but also to promote cultural diversity and understanding. Our ultimate goal is to provide you with a captivating, boundary-defying experience. Eager to discover what’s on our agenda? Delve into our upcoming events and reserve your spot to be part of the journey.”
Click below to find our event listings for the year.
September 17
Mid Autumn (Moon) Festival Celebrations
October 31
Halloween Japanese Kitsune (Fox) Mask Painting Workshop
Mid Autumn (Moon) Festival Celebrations
For Companies
For companies in search of distinctive team-building adventures, we proudly present a selection of exclusive cooking classes, including our immensely popular Japanese creative bento workshop. Our meticulously crafted culinary experiences are designed to foster team engagement, incorporating interactive activities and lighthearted competitions. Your team won’t just savor the fruits of their culinary endeavors; they’re guaranteed to embark on an unforgettable journey. For companies seeking to immerse their teams in the rich tapestry of cultural diversity, we introduce our signature ‘Best of Asia’ workshops. These workshops delve into the tapestry of Asia’s rich heritage and customs, encompassing the realms of gastronomy, artistry, and craftsmanship. We aspire to see these workshops act as bridges, uniting individuals with the vibrant cultures of Asia, while nurturing cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Get in touch with our team to discuss what we can do for your next corporate event.
Celebrate with us
We host cultural workshops to celebrate important Asian festivals, bringing your team an enriching experience filled with cultural heritage and traditions.
Team building with us
We host one-of-a-kind cooking classes, or as we like to call them, food making parties. Enjoy the easy and fun cooking process, and a unique cultural experience with your team.
Learn Languages with us
We are language specialists with a decade of experience dedicated to teaching you Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, from complete beginner to advanced working proficiency.
Learn Mahjong With Us
We host regular Mahjong clubs on Saturdays, where we teach you how to play Mahjong. You can also hire our private instructors for your own event.
Introduce Workplace zen with us
Discover our curated workplace Zen workshops, designed to introduce mindfulness and relaxation to your team through Eastern arts and crafts.
Food Crawl with us
Take your team on an immersive journey through London’s Chinatown. Follow our guide to learn about its rich history and stories, while making stops to sample 3-5 delicious Asian street foods.
Celebrate with us
We host cultural workshops to celebrate important Asian festivals, bringing your team an enriching experience filled with cultural heritage and traditions.
Team building with us
We host one-of-a-kind cooking classes, or as we like to call them, food making parties. Enjoy the easy and fun cooking process, and a unique cultural experience with your team.
Learn Languages with us
We are language specialists with a decade of experience dedicated to teaching you Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, from complete beginner to advanced working proficiency.
Learn Mahjong With Us
We host regular Mahjong clubs on Saturdays, where we teach you how to play Mahjong. You can also hire our private instructors for your own event.
Introduce Workplace zen with us
Discover our curated workplace Zen workshops, designed to introduce mindfulness and relaxation to your team through Eastern arts and crafts.
Food Crawl with us
Take your team on an immersive journey through London’s Chinatown. Follow our guide to learn about its rich history and stories, while making stops to sample 3-5 delicious Asian street foods.