Hyper Japan

This event brings a taste of Japanese tradition, modernity and the latest trends to the heart of our city.

This year’s Christmas market boasts a variety of performers, special guests, exhibitors, food stalls, creative workshops - and most importantly - plenty of kawaii and kooky gift ideas.

The HYPER JAPAN live stage will see performances from the androgynous, acrobatic girl group, THE HOOPERS, metal chanteuse, Fuki, and the reincarnation of 80s pop sensation, SHOHJYOTAI. For those with a more classical ear, soprano Nao Masaoka, a retired otokoyaku (a female who plays a male role) of the all-woman Takarazuka Revue, will be gracing the stage too.

Event-goers will also be treated to a rarely seen, traditional form of Japanese magic called Tezuma performed by Taiju Fujiyama. Using a wide array of props, such as folding fans, paper parasols and traditional masks, Tezuma’s rich 300-year history has cemented it as a must-see act, and an important cultural asset.

There will also be a rare appearance by PEACH-PIT, the two-woman manga team behind cult classics Rozen Maiden and Shugo Chara.

Those who love a Japanese inspired tipple can take part in the voting for the second annual Sake Cocktail Awards, which will see talented mixologists pairing sake with unexpected ingredients including egg, yoghurt and toffee sauce! For foodies, there’s something to whet every appetite, with stalls offering culinary delights - from hot Japanese curry to traditional wagashi sweets.