Step Into the Heart of Japanese Culture at Japan Fest Derby 2025
Saturday 2025 | Quad, Derby Market Place Cathedral Quarter, Market Pl, Derby DE1 3AS
www.japanfest.co.uk/derby
Derby is about to experience a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture like never before!
Japan Fest Derby 2025 returns to the iconic QUAD with an electrifying mix of live music,
cultural activities, traditional arts, cutting-edge fandom, and mouthwatering Japanese food.
From the soul-stirring melodies of SA-SHI-SU: The Music of Studio Ghibli & Final Fantasy
Mini Concert—direct from Japan—to Derby’s very own Aikido Derby, the event promises
something for every age and interest.
Live Performances and Music Highlights
● SA-SHI-SU: The Music of Studio Ghibli & Japanese Gaming Music – A magical live concert
experience featuring music that has defined generations of anime and gaming fans.
● Jero11 – Returning with a high-energy performance blending Japanese and Western
influences.
● Black Tsubaki – Bringing powerful vocals and theatrical flair to the stage.
● LJ English – Japanese music covers with a unique bilingual twist.
● DJ Manimal & Cerisina – Hosting a Hatsune Miku Glowstick Tribute Party that
transforms QUAD into a dazzling digital dream.
● Vocawaves – Vocaloid fan showcase and community stage featuring rising stars and fan
favourites.
Movies Showing – FREE with Ticket
● My Neighbour Totoro: My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming animated film from Studio
Ghibli that follows two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside and
discover magical creatures in the nearby forest. They befriend the gentle forest spirit
Totoro, who helps them navigate both the wonders and worries of their new life. A
beloved classic, Totoro is a gentle celebration of childhood, nature, and imagination.
● Spirited Away: Spirited Away is an award-winning fantasy adventure by Studio Ghibli.
The story follows Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who becomes trapped in a mysterious
spirit world after her parents are transformed into pigs. As she searches for a way to
rescue them, she works in a magical bathhouse and encounters a host of unforgettable
creatures. A visually stunning tale of courage and self-discovery, Spirited Away is widely
considered a masterpiece of animation.
Cultural Activities
● London Karuta Club – Learn to play the traditional Japanese poetry card game featured
in Chihayafuru.
● Basic Japanese Language – Fun, interactive sessions for beginners.
● Kimono Wearing – Try on beautiful traditional garments and learn their cultural
significance.
● Go Club – Discover the ancient strategy game loved by masters for centuries.
● Happy Cat Painting & Origami – Hands-on workshops for kids and adults alike.
Pop Culture & Gaming
● Retro Gaming Area & Speed Racing – Battle it out on classic consoles and see who’s
fastest on the track.
● Cosplay Parade – Dress to impress and join a vibrant celebration of anime, gaming, and
pop culture characters.
Food & Market
● Japanese Food & Snacks – Enjoy takoyaki, Japanese Curry, bubble tea, Japanese sweets,
and more.
● Market stalls will offer a wide range of anime goods, traditional crafts, and collectibles.
Japan Fest Derby 2025 is a full-day, family-friendly event packed with the rich flavours,
sounds, and spirit of Japan. Whether you’re a seasoned anime fan, curious newcomer, or
culture enthusiast, this is your chance to immerse yourself in an unforgettable festival of art,
tradition, and entertainment.
Tickets and Info:
Tickets: £20 Full Price, £15 Concessions, £50 Family Ticket
