On Saturday, September 17th and Sunday, September 18th, explore and eat your way through dozens of Japanese and Asian-inspired vendors like Yakitori Tatsu, Oconomi, Tiger Tai, So Sarap, Tonkatsu Me, and so much more! Food items average at $10, making Japan Fes. a rather affordable way to immerse yourself in delicious Japanese cuisine.
The festival is ran by Okayama-born entrepreneur Dragon Yamamoto. Since moving to New York in 2011, he has started Jforward Inc., an event, restaurant, e-commerce and education business set on creating opportunities and moving Japan and Japanese culture forward, and continues to unite cultures through his Japan Fes. ventures.
The event normally brings in over 10,000 visitors and is held ten times per year. Beyond Chelsea, the fest has occurred all across NYC, from Astoria to the East Village.
“We think it’s very important to bring people and different cultures together. Through food, music, and art we believe it can be done naturally and comfortably. We are very proud to be a part of this movement,” shared their website.
Japan Fes. also hosts non-food vendors. Attendees are welcome to shop tons of beautiful, traditional Japanese clothing, art and novelties. Live performances will also be entertaining people as they stroll through the incredible food selection.
The team behind Japan Fes. even hosts a language exchange program that helps teach people Japanese. Every Friday, anyone interested is welcome to join J-Kuru, a NYC group of Japanese language & culture enthusiasts, for an exciting and casual way to practice Japanese and meet new people! Levels range from beginner to advanced. Learn how you can join here.
See more details about this epic Japanese food fest on their website now.
When: Saturday, September 17th & Sunday, September 18th 10am-6pm
Where: Saturday – 8th Avenue between 15-16th Streets; Sunday – 6th Avenue between 24-25th Streets