Our Mission
We are holding a sustainable event to deepen the engagement between the Japanese community and the local organizations / people on the Gold Coast, which is the largest Japanese community in Australia.
Through performances, food, and cultural experiences, we aim to foster interest and understanding of Japan.
SUPPORTED BY :
Join one of Japan’s most beloved festival traditions! Bon Dance is a fun and easy community dance performed at summer festivals across Japan. Everyone is welcome—just follow the music and dance along!
Celebrate your passion for cosplay at Japan and Friends Day 2026!
Come dressed as your favorite anime, manga, game, or original character and showcase your creativity on stage. Whether you’re an experienced cosplayer or trying it for the first time, we’d love to see you join the fun!
🏆 Great prizes to be won!
🎭 All ages welcome.
📸 Bring your best costume and enjoy an unforgettable day with fellow fans and the community!
See What We Got Up to in 2025!
No Japanese festival is complete without great food!
Explore a delicious selection of festival favorites, including takoyaki, yakisoba, karaage, Japanese sweets, matcha treats, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your appetite.
Come hungry and enjoy the taste of Japan!
Yoyogi Beer is coming this year!
For the very first time, the Gold Coast’s favorite Yoyogi Japanese Craft Beer is coming to Japan and Friends Day! 🇯🇵🇦🇺
Enjoy fresh, ice-cold beer on tap with your favorite festival food!
Fancy Japanese Beer? YES!
Discover the creativity of our local makers at the Japan and Friends Day Craft Market!
Explore a unique collection of handmade crafts, Japanese-inspired artwork, jewellery, vintage kimono creations, bonsai, stationery, stained glass, pottery, books, toys, and one-of-a-kind gifts. You’ll also find face painting, temporary tattoos, traditional crafts, cultural workshops, and many other unique experiences throughout the market.
Meet the talented creators behind the work, discover something truly special, and support local small businesses while celebrating Japanese culture and community.
Experience the beauty of Japanese calligraphy!
Try your hand at shodō, the traditional art of Japanese brush writing. Learn how to use a brush and ink to write beautiful Japanese characters, guided by experienced instructors.
Whether it’s your name, a favorite word, or a meaningful kanji, you’ll create a unique keepsake to take home.
No experience necessary — everyone is welcome!
Discover the art of Japanese tea culture.
Experience the elegance and mindfulness of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Learn about the history, etiquette, and meaning behind this centuries-old cultural practice while enjoying a freshly prepared bowl of matcha.
A peaceful and authentic cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
TIME SLOTS
【Session 1】 12:00 ～ 12:30 PM
【Session 2】 13:00 ～ 13:30 PM
【Session 3】 14:30 〜 15:00 PM
*Capacity：20 participants per session
BOOKING IS REQUIRED.
- Please note that there is a participation fee of 【$5】 to secure a seat (includes Matcha & sweets).
- You will get to enjoy a bowl of authentic Matcha green tea along with traditional Japanese sweets—Konpeito (sugar candies) and Ohigashi (dry sweets).
- Even if the seats are fully booked, or if you prefer not to drink tea, you are more than welcome to watch the demonstration for FREE from the standing area! Please feel free to stop by.
Try your luck and win amazing prizes!
Our Japan and Friends Day 2026 Raffle is online this year!
You can purchase your raffle tickets online and enter from wherever you are — you don’t have to be at the festival to take part.
With fantastic prizes generously donated by our supporters and local businesses, you could be one of our lucky winners!
Get your tickets, cross your fingers, and good luck! 🍀
Event AdminWIN YOUR NEXT TRIP TO JAPAN!
with China Airlines ✈️
Visit the China Airlines booth at Japan and Friends Day and enter for your chance to win a return flight between Brisbane and Japan!
