Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Hyper Japan invited local children to enjoy an iconic mix of tradition and innovation.
Year 6 pupils from Avonmore Primary School and Normand Croft enjoyed a free visit to the event and started the summer holidays in style.
Partnering with Olympia London, Hyper Japan, the UK’s largest showcase of Japanese culture, cuisine & cool, offered local pupils free access to the event, including a dedicated kids area with activities such as ‘message board’ (a 4m wide interactive board); ‘design a mini rugby ball’ workshop; ‘boccia game area’; traditional workshops including origami and calligraphy; 'Amazing Sketchbook Experience' (2D drawings done on paper then converted into 3D drawings on a projected screen); and several other activities designed for school children to engage in the dedicated 'Activity Zone'.
In addition, the local guests enjoyed free access to the event's full programme which, in its 10-year milestone, showcased classic favourites such as EAT-JAPAN live zone - a destination in its own right.
Taking over Olympia West on the upper level, visitors sampled iconic Japanese dishes and street food. Whether a ramen advocate or a bubble waffle lover, there was something for every foodie to indulge in.
Culture vultures were also rewarded with the “Asakusa Culture Zone’ dedicated to those who love the history of Japan. A bonsai-filled traditional Japanese garden provided the perfect backdrop for those who love the 'zen' side of the country, whilst a digital 'koi pond' - where fish reacted to human interaction - delivered a twist on tradition, pleasing both crowd and Instagrammers.
For those seeking a visual spectacle, the 'Yagura Matsuri Tower’ definitely grabbed the attention. A reproduction of a classic architectural icon in Japan erected during the Matsuri festival which takes place every July, the installation transported guests to the streets of Kyoto with a celebratory feel.
Hyper Japan has always been a must-visit destination for Manga fans and, this year, it teamed up with the Japanese Embassy’s ‘Manga Jiman’ competition where the Aichi Institute of Technology’s 3D sketchbooks turned children’s drawings into 3D art; an amazing experience for budding artists!
An explosion of entertainment, the ‘Hyper Stage’ showcased a mix of musical and cultural guests delivering exceptional performances. As music filled the venue, crowds gathered to party, while talks from respected artists had a crowded audience captivated.
Commenting on their visit, Victoria Henman – Year 6 Coordinator at Avonmore Primary School said: “Avonmore school was kindly gifted with free tickets which we were able to include in our school raffle. The winning children were particularly delighted to spend the weekend with their parents enjoying themselves.”
Following the successful summer event, Hyper Japan will return to Olympia London in 2020.