21st Septemper 2024 | 10am – 4pm
Broadbeach Cultural Centre
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.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Experience TOYOTA’s Hydrogen Energy technology!
– H+ generator for the first time landing in Queensland
– Meet H+ powered car CROWN and MIRAI!
Showcase by professional mikoshi bearers from Japan – also you can have the opportunity to experience mikoshi carrying firsthand!
Guess who’s coming from Sanrio Original Musical?
Find your favourite one to have a photo together!
From luxury hotel vouchers to Japanese foods… lots of prizes from supporting companies!
Anime, comics and games…
Dress up in your favourite character and get the prize!
Experience Japanese tradition –
Tea ceremony, Calligraphy & Origami here
WHO’S ON
OUR MCs
Main MC : Chris White & Douglas Brown
Support MC : Christina Damigos
ChristinaHello, I’m Christina!
I’m from Tokyo and I’m going to Robina State High School on the Gold Coast. I’m so excited to see you all and I will do my best to enliven this event!!
See you soon!
こんにちは、クリスティーナです!
私は東京出身で現在ゴールドコーストのロビーナ高校に通っています。
このイベントを盛り上げられるように最善を尽くして頑張ります！
Tap to see the list and details for our performers and food / craft stalls!
LIVE PERFORMERS
Be Haumana
Hawaiian Hula Dance interest group
Zumba with Kaz
Zumba with Kaz as famous as usual
Yosakoi Maito
Yosakoi Dance originally started in Kochi, Japan in 1954 as an annual street dancing festival. All dancers use a pair of castanets called Naruko. Yosakoi Maito was established in 2011. They have been performing Yosakoi dances on the Gold Coast and Brisbane area.
Sakura Dance Group
The Sakura Dance Group is specializing in traditional Japanese dance and aims to introduce the classical beauty and refinement of this traditional art form to a wider audience.
Jeff Yeraki
I’m a Japanese rapper. I’m from Hokkaido. My TikTok short videos have been viewed 3 million times. I appeared on AbemaTV, a Japanese TV app. The strong rhymes and flow are the selling points.
Aikido KITAYAMA Dojo
“We provide not only quality instruction of Japanese Martial Art ‘AIKIDO’ but also the philosophy and culture behind it”
Screenshot
Narumi no Kai
Demonstration of a Classical Japanese dance and it’s workshop
Wadaiko SHO
Kids Japanese Drum team
Tensui Australia
Tensui Australia aims to bring one of Japan’s most famous festival dances, Awa Odori, in all its authentic grace, energy and centuries-old custom, from its home in Tokushima to Australia Awa Odori is the traditional dance of Tokushima, featuring teams of dancers and musicians, performing on stage and on the street in one of the largest festivals of the Japanese summer. Tensui Australia is currently the only regularly practicing and performing Awa Odori team in Australia. We are a community group based in South East Queensland and our membership includes children and adults of a range of ages. We perform with either recorded or live music. Our standard performances are on stage, but we can also dance in parade, including audience participation, or run an interactive workshop, depending on the space and conditions. As they say in Tokushima: There are watching fools, and there are dancing fools. They’re fools just the same, so you might as well dance!
Red Jackets from Red Radiant Productions
Red Jackets is a multicultural Band performing Japanese Cover songs in Brisbane, Sydney & Melbourne. We have a strong interest in Japanese culture and it’s performances. We perform a range of popular Pop rock music to Japanese Anime theme songs. We have been performing for Matsuri Japanese Festival Brisbane 2019-2023, Japan Night at Mt Gravatt Street food 2022-2024, Bris Asia Street food, Buddha Birthday Festival 2017-2022, Sydney Malaysian Festival 2019 and 2024, Brisbane Malaysian Citra Festival 2016-2023, Mt Gravatt Street food event Anime Cosplay Night 2024, UQ International Ball 2019-2024, Hakka Association Dragon Boat Festival, Melbourne Colours of Malaysia Festival and many more.
Japanese Dance Mai
Asuka style of Japanese dance with traditional or modern music
Kizuna Taiko Gold Coast
The Gold Coast’s Premier Taiko Group
We love to share our love and experience of playing Japanese Taiko through performances and workshops at a wide variety of community and corporate events.
Eisa – Okinawan traditional taiko drum dance
Okinawa Association of Gold Coast has recently launched a traditional Okinawan performing arts “Eisa” team. Although it is still in its early stages, we hope that the unique sound of the drums and performances will resonate with everyone and bring them joy. Additionally, through Eisa, we aim to convey the importance of preserving Japanese culture to the next generation of children.
LUKKKY J
They primarily perform anime theme songs. They have been practicing after school until September and look forward to performing in front of everyone.
Majestic Lily
A J-POP band consisting of vocals, guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and saxophone. We aim to liven up Japan & Friends Day with a mix of new and old hit songs. Thank you for your support!
Japanese kids Yosakoi Dance Yu-mai
We are yosakoi kids dance. Use traditional music and wooden castanets.
Byron Taiko
Byron Taiko is a Japanese performing art entertainment group passionate about promoting traditional Japanese culture, based in Byron Bay Australia. Roving live music with the colourful kimonos, dynamic Japanese Taiko drum stage, Samurai dance, Okinawan folk and mellow background Shamisen band. With the vanload drums, we visiting schools and events to convey the good old Japanese culture, spirit and music since 2012.
Himawari Language School
We are dancing and singing
Eucaly
I am passionate about spreading the attractions of Japanese pop music to the world. I would love to dance “IDOL” from YOASOBI and “Sho” from Ado that I choreographed. My motto of the performance is engaging the audience. I am sure I can lead the audience to my world with my energetic movements and expressions.
Tea
Tea, is a local Brisbane-based solo jpop performer. Known for her sparkling dance covers across the internet, her bright energy at events and as a former member of idol group, Melody Parade. She is sure to light up the stage with all your favourite Jpop songs!
FOOD STALLS
Shiro Gelato & Snack
We will provide our unique and delicious Japanese Mochi Gelato & Onigiri! Enjoy your flavours and culinary experience of Japan.
Panko Stand
We have been operating a croquette shop on the Gold Coast for 8 years. Our potato croquettes and bite-sized chicken cutlets made with fresh panko are very popular.
We use organic ingredients, and our croquettes are vegan-friendly. Recently, we are also expanding to the Brisbane market.
Please stop by and visit us!
Matcha Cafe
Japanese Matcha Green Tea and Freshly Ground Coffee Barista. Our matcha café will be open again this year. We will be offering our classic matcha lattes, freshly ground coffee, and more. We look forward to seeing you there.
Oki Food
Let’s get rice bowl!
Teppanyaki Noodles
We will provide our unique and delicious Japanese Teppanyaki noodles! Enjoy our show of cooking on the teppanyaki grill!
RolliPolli Takoyaki
We are #1 Takoyaki stall on the Gold Coast!!🐙
We will have delicious Takoyaki (Octopus Ball🐙) and Taiyaki (Japanese traditional fish-shaped waffles🧇) cooked fresh on-site for your full Matsuri experience!
We can’t wait to see you soon!
Wafu-ya
Wafu-ya specializes in authentic hand made “WAGASHI” sweets, treats & drinks freshly made with tasty products including Vegan & Gluten free choices!
TEKIYA’S
Hello We are “TEKIYA’S”.
We have been making “ABURA SOBA” on the Gold Coast for 7 years now.
We are making a menu with the concept of “delicious Japanese food good for body and health”. Because we do not use chemical seasonings and additives at all, children can eat safely.
We are planning limited dishes so that many new customers can enjoy “ABURA SOBA” in a short waiting time this year as well.
Matsu Shaved Ice
Shaved ice ‘KAKIGORI’ is very popular in summer time in Japan. Traditionally it is made from big cube of ice and topped with varieties of sources.
Matsu’s Snowflake soft (literally melting in your mouth) shaved ice is very fluffy and delicate, as they use very good quality of the ice. Did you know actually we take 5 days to make really delicious crystal-clear ice?!
Our original sources are made from scratch. Real fruits, no artificial colour, gluten free, vegetarian and eco friendly. We also try to reduce plastic usage (bowls – sugarcane, spoons- wood).
Come down to Matsu’s stall and enjoy tasty Japanese shaved ice!
Fossando
We specialise in Japanese Sando and onigiri rice balls. It is the tradition for Japanese to have whole foods in their meals. Our products are also based on that concept of quality ingredients, chemical free and100% fresh handmade on site. We aim to deliver the Japanese cuisine that is not commonly found in restaurants. We would like people to experience more different aspects of the Japanese spirit.
Okinawa Taco Brothers
My name is Seiya, the representative! Having lived in Miyako Island for nearly two years, I fell in love with Okinawan cuisine (especially taco rice) and wanted to spread it in Australia! Currently we are active at regular markets, events, festivals, and catering in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast!
Nanaya Japanese
Hi this is nanaya Japanese based in Brisbane.
We are providing high quality matcha Drinks, Sweets and Gelato!!
Now we are getting a various type of premium matcha from tea farms across Japan and developing new menus.
I can’t wait to see new friends at Goldcoast!!
Kemuri Kitchen
A creative Japanese cuisine restaurant located in the suburbs of Carrara
Osaka Omurice
Mr. Egg man will give you Osaka energy and yummy Osaka Omurice
CRAFT STALLS
Fleur de soie
Welcome to Fleur de soie, where exquisite handmade jewelry meets the delicate beauty of fabric and silk flowers. Our specialty lies in creating stunning earrings that are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also incredibly lightweight, weighing under 5 grams each. Crafted to be as light as a feather, our earrings ensure you can wear them all day long without any discomfort, allowing you to showcase your style effortlessly. In addition to our earrings, we also offer adorable hair clips perfect for little girls, adding a touch of charm and elegance to any ensemble. Step into our world of floral elegance and discover the perfect accessory to complement your unique style at Fleur de soie.
Looking forward to seeing you all there on the special event！
Apfel
Hi, my name is Junko and I am the sole owner of Apfel which selling clothing and other small sewing products with up cycled vintage kimono silk, Yukata cotton and quality Japanese fabric. All my products are handmade and designed by me.
Kimono is Traditional Japanese garments and I love to introduce the beauty and uniqueness of kimono fabric in my creation to everyone. Thank you.
Marin
Hi I’m Mariko from Tsumamizaiku Marin.
My creations are made using traditional Japanese techniques. In addition to accessories for yukata and kimono, I also bring others that can be used in everyday life. Please come and see my works on the day of the event！
WAKA Brisbane
WAKA 和花 creates various handmade product such as, accessories, bags and clothes by three mothers who still are busy with school kids. Some of our products crafted from unstitched fabric of kimonos left behind by mothers and grandmothers and some of them crafted from Japanese washi(和紙）origami.
Though products like these, we aim to promote both Japanese culture and sustainability, taking steps towards a greener future.
Kobo TAKA
By using specifically chosen recycled T-shirt yarn for quality handmade items such as bags, pouches and other miscellaneous items are made.
Come see the stall and if you are interested in purchasing.
Workshop are also ran for you to make your own if this is something you are interested in.
Natsu Jewelry Brisbane
Hi I am Natsu from Natsu Jewelry Brisbane.
About me , When I was in Japan, I loved to express myself since I was little , and I used to work like singing, dancing, and appearing on TV show.
Since I came here, the place of expression has turned to make accessories, and I became obsessed with expressing the splendor of Japanese culture. From there, I started to use origami! Origami cranes and thousand cranes are created as symbols of peace with the meaning of praying for longevity,happiness,disasters, and healing from illness. I make them one by one with a bright hope for everyone. And also I like to mix various materials to make one beautiful pair. it contains a message that each person will shine uniquely by combining different personalities like the world we are in. Making accessories with my passion.I use a range of Japanese materials including washi paper, origami and up cycle kimono materials in my designs.
I would love to share our beautiful culture with you.
Azzato Property Group
We are Azzato Property Group – Buyers Agent.
Based on the Gold Coast, we provide real estate buyer’s agent services with Rudi Azzato as our director.
🏠 What is a buyer’s agent service? It is a service that supports buyers 100%, helping them make better real estate purchases.
We assist everyone from first-time homebuyers to experienced domestic and international investors, and those looking to enjoy a comfortable retirement, ensuring their real estate purchase experience is as profitable and stress-free as possible.
haruhana
Please come and check out our hand painted ‘’kawaii’’ press on nails and hypoallergenic earrings/clip ons!!
ReAjust Japanese Health
A Japanese physiotherapist offers treatments tailored to your needs, including not only chronic shoulder stiffness and lower back pain, but also sports injuries and pelvic misalignment. Currently, we provide home visit treatments and custom-made insole production, mainly on the Gold Coast.
Knowledge of East
Knowledge of East promotes Yakuzen; food as medicine, which is originally a Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy. Yakuzen focuses on harmony of nature by choosing food consciously to match the needs of our body conditions, rather than cravings. Yakuzen also values eating seasonably, as well as locally grown produces.
For this year’s The Japan Friends Day, we set up a DIY Yakuzen Herbal Tea Workshop, where you can come to blend your own remedial tea to take home with. Please come and visit us🩷
Australia Kodomo Library
Australia Kodomo Toshokan is a service that rents and delivers picture books to your home every month. Our books total approximately 5000 volumes.
In Japan & Friends Day, we will be selling a large number of recycled picturebooks, children’s books, books on child-care, etc.
Please come to see us!!
Mimu Caricature Creations
Hi! My name is Mimu, I’m a caricaturist who provides live sketch portraits at festivals, events, parties, weddings etc across the Gold Coast and Brisbane regions.
I also sell miniature food accessories.
Looking forward to seeing you all at JFD 2024!
Pottery Outlet
Hand made pottery shop. Lot of outlets and new products will be coming.
Himawari Language School
A Saturday school at Robina State High School, offering learning opportunities for local community for all ages – from playgroup to adults. A weekly Japanese cultural experience is included.
Spireal Colour Therapy
Making the spiritual real: Spirial.
To help you enjoy each day, we deliver Spirial messages.
With “Spirial Color Therapy,” where we convey messages from the colors of cards you choose yourself, we reveal your hidden “talents,” “mission,” and “life purpose.”
Living authentically as yourself becomes enjoyable and positive.
Be Bold Active
A boutique style activewear company, striving to deliver great quality products at an affordable price.
Little Japan Brisbane
Are you looking for a unique Japanese experience and gift at Japan and friends day? Little Japan sell unique Japanese calligraphy products, made to order and prepared in front of you!
Each of Japan’s kanji has its very own meaning. When you purchase one of our calligraphy products, we’ll work closely with you to find the perfect Kanji that matches the feeling or personality of the person receiving the gift.
String + Wire
I’m making jewelry with natural stones, Rattan and Japanese Mizuhiki.
I try to make it simple yet with a hint of special touch, for you to enjoy the colour and texture
of the material.
You may know, Mizuhiki is a traditional Japanese cord making special shapes, hope you can feel the Japanese tradition by my jewelry.
Team Yakuzen
Team Yakuzen is a group of certified Yakuzen instructors. We are focusing on spreading the world of Yakuzen for healthier life style. For this years Japan Friends’ Day, we are to promote three different types of Yakuzen herbal teas. We also teach you how to look at your tongue for checking your body’s needs too.
Come to see us❤️
Paints and Giggles
Character arm art, face painting and more!
Utsukushii Design & Photography
Inspired by Japan travel and teaching, I love to create Japanese design inspired items ranging from UV printed items, acrylic keyrings, coasters, menu boards, signs, teaching resources, t-shirts, travel journals, custom made items and whatever else my creative passion takes me.
EVENT DETAILS
TOYOTA Hydrogen Energy
Experience TOYOTA’s Hydrogen Energy technology such as
H+ powered car and the generator!
MIKOSHI
PORTABLE SHRINE
The Mikoshi is the portable miniature shrine carried during Japanese festivals in many regions. It is believed that Mikoshi holds the spirit of the deity of that shrine. To carry Mikoshi is like people parading around local areas and signifies the warding off of misfortune and wishing for the happiness of its people.
We do shaking and rocking the Mikoshi while carrying it – it is not just to make a racket, but rather a gesture for the deity, to have it involved in the fun of the festival as the main focus. Rocking the Mikoshi is to invigorate the deity and enliven the land.
Behind-the-scenes story of Mikoshi…
Here on the Gold Coast, it was donated by Haraoka Setsubi Kogyo via Yokohama Minami Rotary Club to Robina State High School as a symbol of mutual respect between Australian and Japanese communities on 07th July 2024.
LET’S JOIN OUR FIRST MIKOSHI CARRYING at 9.30am!
We have members of the 3 related Mikoshi association groups to demonstrate how this ceremony is performed. You are most welcome to join and carry this Mikoshi on your shoulder to experience the authentic Japanese Matsuri atmosphere.
We are currently seeking 20 people who can assist us by carrying the mikoshi first thing in the morning on September 21st (Saturday), during Japan & Friends Day. This will take place from 9:30-9:50am.
Requirements:
- Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement.
- Participants must be 18 years or older and in good health.
If anyone is interested in participating, please email Your Name and Date of Birth to the following information via link below.
HELLO KITTY’S
SUPER ADVENTURE
Guess who’s coming from Sanrio Original Musical?
Find your favourite one to have a photo together!
RAFFLES
From luxury hotel vouchers to Japanese foods… lots of prizes from supporting companies!
COSPLAY CONTEST
Anime, comics and games…
Dress up in your favourite character and get the prize!
WORKSHOPS
How about experiencing traditional Japanese culture with the professionals?
Tea ceremony, Calligraphy, or Origami.
Come and visit us!
@ Activity Room
@ Activity Room
@ Multi Purpose Room
Tea Ceremony Workshop
– Bookings Essential
Enjoy some real Japanese chado experience with special wagashi sweets lead by Soukou Sensei, 20 + years experience of Chado at the beautiful tea ceremony.
Tea Ceremony Demonstrations Schedule
Introduction to the tea ceremony – 5 mins
11:00am | 1:00pm | 2:30pm
@ Activity Room
Tea ceremony – 15 mins.
Serving a cup of matcha and confectionery – 15 mins
Experience of making matcha tea – 20 mins (if desired)
*BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL
Shodo Workshop
– Bookings Not Required
Japanese calligraphy workshop is coming this year!
The world of SHODO (Japanese Calligraphy) has a long and rich history which went through various ways of calligraphic styles over 3000 years.
Only using a brush and ink, the aesthetic beauty of Shodo is expressed and it can be done by your inner silence and spiritual concentration.
Immerse yourself into the world of Shodo with us. Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Origami Workshop
– Bookings Not Required
The Japanese Club will be holding an origami workshop. You can make all kinds of things with origami! Look forward to it!
Tea Ceremony workshop & SHODO (Japanese Calligraphy) workshop
@ Activity Room
Origami workshop
@ Multi Purpose Hall