Photo via @japanmarketvancouver / Instagram
This June, Vancouver’s beloved Japan Market is back with its annual summer festival, bringing together dozens of Japanese food and arts vendors alongside live cultural entertainment and programming designed to bring a taste of Japan to the city.
“While many people assume that the Japan Market is a government-funded event like other large public festivals, we’re simply two small Japanese Canadian business owners who are passionate about spreading the richness of Japanese culture,” says the festival organizers on their website. “Japan Market is not just a vendor market – we also offer Japanese cultural performances, demonstrations, and workshops.”
The two-day celebration typically features a Taiko drumming performance, karate demonstrations, and traditional dance performances by local groups, and we’re sure this year will be no different. Last year, there were 82 vendors and around 8,000 attendees, which means this year’s festival will be even bigger and better than ever.
The market takes place on June 14 and 15 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ (Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza).
At noon on June 14, 2025, Vancouver Okinawa Taiko will showcase their drumming performance, followed by the Samurai performance group Hitotose Tate at 2 p.m.
On June 15, 2025, APPARE Yosakoi Vancouver will perform a traditional dance called “Yosakoi” at noon, followed by the essence of budo/martial arts by Shorinji Kempo at 2 p.m.
At 4 p.m., Vancouver-based Idol group CloudTown will perform odottemita dance covers to the best JPOP and Vocaloid songs. Also happening at 4 p.m. is a Japanese calligraphy performance by Kisyuu (姫洲), who has over 30 years of experience in both traditional and modern styles of Japanese calligraphy.
Early bird tickets are on sale now for $4 per adult (or $7 for two) each day the festival runs. Children aged 15 years and under can enter the festival for free.
Note that the first 50 people to enter on each of the mornings will receive $10 in Japan Market vouchers to spend on some goodies.
When: June 14 and 15, 2025
Where: 750 Hornby St.
Cost: $4 to $5 for one adult, $7 to $9 for two adults
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