Sheffield students have organised a celebration of all things Japanese to take place this Friday (1 May) in the Octagon.

The University of Sheffield’s Japan Society is one of the biggest and most active Japanese societies in the UK, and won cultural society of the year in 2024.

The society welcomes anyone who has an interest in Japan and its rich culture, regardless of nationality, degree or background.

The students have worked in collaboration with sponsors to be able to put on the event which will have, performers, workshops, and decorations covering all aspects of Japanese culture.

The festival is open to everyone, whether you are a fan of “anime, traditional culture or delicious food” or are being introduced to this all for the first time.

Scott Davies, President of University of Sheffield’s Japan Society, said: “The event began in 2011 as a fundraising event for disaster relief after the Tohoku earthquake in Japan.

“The event was a great success and now it has become an annual tradition.”

This year will mark the 15th edition of celebrations and the day will consist of a series of workshops including, flower arranging, calligraphy, taiko drumming, and a tea ceremony.

There will also be performances from an enka singer, a genre of music known for its sentimental ballads, and a shamisen player, coming all the way from Japan to attend the event.

Mr Davies said: “We have a star line-up of performers this year but personally I am looking forward to seeing everyone enjoying the event and getting stuck in.”

A series of Sheffield-based Japanese restaurants, such as Guyshi, Osaka and Edo will also be hosting stalls selling food.

The event will take place from 2pm until 8pm on Friday and tickets can be bought on the doors, or via the link here.