5 Free Events & Shows All Lovers Of Japanese Culture Must Attend!

If you love Japanese culture, from the traditional to the mainstream to the sub-genres, then don’t miss out on 6828 8377

Cloth Koinobori

https://www.instagram.com/p/BDnZB_AL6lT/?tagged=koinobori

Do you know that in Japan, the carp is a symbol of courage, strength and success? According to one Japanese legend, the carp, which swims upwards, is thought to become a dragon as it beats the oncoming current. In the past, and now kept as a tradition, the families of the Samurai warriors would fly koinobori — carp streamers — as a way of honouring their children who are on the battlefield.

In this workshop, you will learn to make koinobori — carp streamers — and design it with stamps and paint. This event will take place on the 21st of May 2016 at 4 PM, and will last for an hour and 30 minutes. No advance registration is needed.

Cloth Koinobori
Date: 21 May 2016
Time: 4pm
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Address: Theatre Meeting Point at Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Tel: +65 6828 8377

Kumihimo Bracelet Braiding

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Looking for something new to adorn your wrist? What about a hand-made kumihimo bracelet? Kumihimo, a traditional Japanese technique of braiding, was previously used by Samurai warriors to lace their armour, and today, people use it for many other functional and decorative purposes! For example, you can use it to create belts and friendship bands, if you are interested.

This workshop will take place on the 22nd of May 2016 at 3 PM and 5.30 PM. Each session will last for an hour and 30 minutes. No advance registration is needed.

Kumihimo Bracelet Braiding
Date: 22 May 2016
Time: 3pm and 5.30pm
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Address: Theatre Meeting Point at Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Tel: +65 6828 8377

Kuruma Ningyo Puppet Theatre

https://www.instagram.com/p/9eTrf2np6T/?tagged=kurumaningyo

If you have never seen Japanese puppet theatre, despite previous trips to the Land of the Rising Sun, what are you waiting for? Created more than 150 years ago, at the end of the Edo era, Kuruma Ningyo is a style of puppetry that is considered a National Intangible Folk Custom Cultural Asset of Japan. Plus, before each show, the performers put on a sanbaso, a dance meant to bring luck, success and good bounty to its audience!

The show will take place on the 17th of May 2016 at 5.15 PM, 7.15 PM, and 8.15 PM. Each show will last for 30 minutes. No advance registration is needed.

Kuruma Ningyo Puppet Theatre
Date: 17 May 2016
Time: 5.15pm, 7.15pm, 8.15pm
Duration: 30 minutes
Address: Concourse area at Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Tel: +65 6828 8377

Kimono Lessons

https://www.instagram.com/p/BFRf8IgooOv/?tagged=kimono

If all you know about the kimono is that it’s worn by ladies… then you’ve got a lot to learn! Different styles of kimono are worn during different occasions and seasons. For example, the kimono worn by a woman during a tea ceremony is quite different from the one donned on to perform a traditional dance. Not only will you learn about the appropriateness of various kimono at different events, you will also learn how to wear them properly at this event.

This workshop will take place on the 22nd of May 2016 at 4 PM, and will last for an hour. No advance registration is needed.

Kimono Lessons
Date: 22 May 2016
Time: 4pm
Duration: 1 hour
Address: Concourse area at Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Tel: +65 6828 8377

With these free events happening at the Esplanade, it is so much easier (and more affordable) to fall in love with Japanese culture. Head on down to learn about Japanese culture and traditions this week. Also, don’t forget to check out the Japanese funfair that will be happening soon!

Also read: Keong Saik Carnival: The Event All Hipsters Shouldn’t Miss

Japanese Carnival This Weekend – Food, Games, And More!

If you love Japanese culture like we do, mark your calendar! Super Japan Matsuri will be held from 20 to 22 May 2016 at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay from 5pm to 10pm daily.

Food

Like every other Matsuri (festival), you can look forward to a weekend of traditional Japanese festival food such as Takoyaki (octopus balls), Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes), soft serve ice cream, and of course, Japanese beer.

Games

Those who want to try your hand at Japanese games, you might want to start practising your Yo-yo tsuri (water balloon fishing), Senbonbiki (lucky strings game), Katanuki (candy moulding), Shateki (shoot prizes down), and many more.

Senbonbiki is a game where treats or prizes are attached to long strings. The game player will pull on a string, not knowing which treat is attached to it. Apparently, this is usually a ‘sure-win’ game.

Dress up

On top of that, if you dress to match their nightly theme (see image below), you’ll receive one free game coupon to be used at the festival.

This sure sounds like a great opportunity to dress up, cosplay, or put on a yukata (summer kimono)!

Details

Super Japan Matsuri
Date: 20 – 22 May 2016 (Fri – Sun)
Time: 5pm – 10pm (Fri), 3pm – 10pm (Sat & Sun)
Address: Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Entry fee: Free admission, coupons required for games
Event page: Super Japan Matsuri

A Matsuri is all about having fun with friends and family. Call your friends, bring your family, get dressed for the theme, and play some games! Fun and laughter guaranteed.

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(Header image credit: antoniotajuelo.com, words by editor)

Also read: 5 Free Events & Shows All Lovers Of Japanese Culture Must Attend!

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