Spend a few hours learning about Japanese culture…

If you’re looking for something unique to do this weekend with a dash of culture, pay a visit to the Japan Festival at Sheraton JBR hosted by The Japanese Association.

On Sunday, December 11, The Japanese Association is celebrating the beauty of the Japanese community in the Middle East and aims to promote the culture and heritage of the nation. Tickets are not required to enter the event.

The Japanese culture has recently been in the spotlight for the team’s extremely courteous behaviour over the World Cup. And if you were one of the very many who have been captivated, this is a great event to attend.

Here’s what you can expect at the Japan Festival

Wadaiko Japan Festival in Dubai

The Japan Festival will showcase a number of traditional shows including Wadaiko – a traditional drum performance, and Bon-Odori – a Japanese traditional dance. For fans of the martial art, Aikido – Japanese Marshall Arts will be showcased. Music fans can sway and tap their feet to Japanese jazz and anime soundtracks played by a Japanese Music Band.

Bring the little ones along as there will be gaming booths across the venue including Yo-Yo Fishing, Strack Out, and Tire Bowling.

japanese food - Japan Festival in Dubai

For foodies, there will be a number of food stalls available from the various Japanese restaurants in Dubai including Fujiya, Yamanote, Yui, Ikigai-cha, Gourmet-ya, Momiji, Suzumo, Wokyo, Summit Trading and more.

One thing you don’t want to miss is the Maguro Kaitai Show – a very popular event which takes place all over Japan. What is Maguro Kaitai? Well, it’s an event that showcases the fine art of tuna cutting and you will get to see a Japanese professional chef disassemble a whopping 80 to 100-kilogram tuna right in front of your eyes.

You can even get henna done, see demonstrations on the beautiful art of origami, listen to seminars on ocha (Japanese green tea) and sake (Japanese rice wine) and check out a stunning Arita yaki display (Japanese porcelain made in the area around the town of Arita).

Friendly tip: Parking spots are limited, so use public transportation to get to the event.

For more information on this event, reach out to @japanfes_dubai

The Japan Festival, Sheraton JBR, Dubai, Dec 11, 3pm to 8pm, @japanfes_dubai

Images: Getty Images and Unsplash