August 28, 2025 – Explore Japanese culture through the folklore of Masks and Myths at the 27th Annual Greater Kansas City Japan Festival, from 10 am to 7 pm Saturday, October 4th on the campus of Johnson County Community College (JCCC).
Hosted by the Heart of America Japan-America Society (HAJAS) and JCCC, this is a one-day only celebration of Japanese culture, encompassing theatre, workshops and lectures, martial arts, music, anime and manga, food, and much more.
Masks are powerful storytellers, with mystical meanings lasting from ancient Japanese history to current day anime, manga, cosplay and Noh theatre. Discover the Kitsune, the legendary fox spirit of prosperity and fertility; the carved wooden masks of Noh theatre, where gods, demons, animals, and humans come alive on stage; the fearsome Samurai masks once worn into battle to protect warriors and strike terror into their foes, now preserved in museums worldwide; and countless other expressions of Japan’s storied past. In modern cosplay, anime and manga, masks continue to bridge tradition and innovation, blending history with the pulse of contemporary fashion and performance. (more)
The Japan Festival offers more than a glimpse of this tradition—it invites you to participate. Alongside performances and exhibits, Festival-goers can immerse themselves in three special add-on workshops including mask making, tea ceremony, and Japanese calligraphy.
Festival favorites return for another unforgettable year. Experience the passionate rhythms of taiko drumming with local ensemble Three Trails Taiko—a centuries-old Japanese art form known for its dynamic energy.
Witness powerful martial arts demonstrations and enjoy captivating traditional Japanese dance by Asuka Iijima that tells the stories of five iconic masks.
Aya Uchida, internationally recognized “J-Pop” singer from Kyoto, Japan, returns to perform with Jo Yamanaka, a Kansas City musician and songwriter, who accompanies Aya on the guitar.
Fans of Cosplay can join the lively Cosplay Contest, complete with prizes!
Children can discover hands-on fun in the Japanese Cultural Village and hunt for special mask stamps. Shoppers will have a unique experience at the Japan Bazaar; and everyone can sample authentic Japanese cuisine! Immerse yourself in a full day of Japanese culture.
Greater Kansas City Japan Festival is an event like no other! Don’t miss it.
Tickets purchased in advance online receive a discount. Visit www.kcjapanfestival.org
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jama Akers, Outreach Coordinator- akers.jama@gmail.com; 913-940-4176
