Japan’s biggest cultural festival is heading north. when HYPER JAPAN will bring its vibrant celebration of Japanese art, food, fashion, anime, and music to Manchester, transforming the Manchester Central Convention Complex into a living showcase of Japan’s creative heartbeat from 14 - 16 November 2025.
-- Japan’s biggest cultural festival is heading north. For the first time ever, HYPER JAPAN will bring its vibrant celebration of Japanese art, food, fashion, anime, and music to Manchester, transforming the Manchester Central Convention Complex into a living showcase of Japan’s creative heartbeat from 14 - 16 November 2025.
After more than a decade of sold-out success in London, where the festival attracted over 50,000 visitors this summer, the move to Manchester marks an exciting new chapter for fans and newcomers alike — offering northern audiences a chance to experience the full spectrum of Japanese culture in one unforgettable weekend.
Where Anime Meets Tradition
HYPER JAPAN Manchester will host more than 180 independent artists and small businesses in the expansive Manchester Hyper Market, a buzzing space filled with handmade art, street fashion, ceramics, collectibles, and Japanese-inspired creations. Visitors can also browse the HYPER JAPAN Shop, featuring official anime merchandise and Manchester-exclusive items from hit series such as Dan Da Dan, STEINS;GATE, and CHAOS;CHILD.
The event’s mission is simple: to bridge cultures through creativity — connecting fans, makers, and communities who share a love for Japan’s artistry and imagination.
Food, Music, and Cultural Immersion
No Japanese festival would be complete without its food. Expect sizzling ramen, yakitori, gyoza, takoyaki, and matcha-infused sweets served fresh at the street-food zone. The Sake Experience, a separately ticketed tasting event, will let guests explore regional brews, meet experts, and vote for their favourite sake of the weekend.
On stage, East meets West in a diverse lineup blending J-pop and traditional performance. Anime icon Aya Hirano, known for her roles in Death Note and The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, headlines alongside singer-songwriter Miyuna. The schedule also includes powerful Taiko drumming, soulful Enka ballads, and elegant Koto performances — a sonic journey through Japan’s past and present.
Evangelion 30th Anniversary Booth
A major highlight for anime lovers will be the Evangelion 30th Anniversary Booth, celebrating three decades of Hideaki Anno’s landmark series Neon Genesis Evangelion. Expect immersive installations, rare collectibles, and exclusive Manchester-only items dedicated to one of anime’s most enduring worlds.
Hands-On Workshops
Festival-goers can take part in a series of creative workshops designed to teach the philosophy behind Japan’s traditional arts:
Kintsugi - Repair broken pottery with gold, embracing imperfection as beauty.
Shodo Calligraphy - Discover the flow and mindfulness of Japanese brushwork.
Shimenawa Weaving - Create sacred ropes used for protection and blessing.
Origami - Explore the simplicity and serenity of paper folding.
Each workshop offers an intimate, guided experience led by expert instructors and artisans.
Quote from HYPER JAPAN
“We’re bringing together the best of modern and traditional Japan under one roof,” said Yoshiki Sato, Managing Director of HYPER JAPAN. “From Evangelion’s 30th anniversary to live music, workshops, and a marketplace of independent creators — Manchester will experience Japan’s vibrant spirit like never before.”
Event Details
Venue: Manchester Central Convention Complex, Windmill Street, Manchester M2 3GX
Dates: 14 - 16 November 2025
Hours: Fri 12:00 - 20:00 | Sat 10:00 - 20:00 | Sun 10:00 - 17:00
Tickets: From £24 | Free entry for children aged 10 and under (accompanied by an adult)
Find out more here https://www.japannakama.co.uk/events/hyper-japan-manchester-2025/
About Japan Nakama
Japan Nakama is a UK-based online magazine and cultural community platform spotlighting Japanese art, fashion, film, food, and subculture. Through interviews, editorials, and event coverage, Japan Nakama connects readers with the stories, creators, and movements shaping Japan’s influence worldwide.
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