Greater Kansas City Japan Festival

Want to try your luck at pachinko? Or feel the percussive power of a Japanese drum group? Or learn about and see traditional Japanese swords? Perhaps you’d like to get a photo of yourself in Samurai armor? Activities abound at this year's Greater Kansas City Japan Festival!

Back by popular demand is Denver Taiko!, a group comprised of third, fourth, and fifth generations of Japanese Americans who delight audiences with heart-thumping crescendos on traditional Japanese drums. Also returning is Aya Uchida, a vocalist who introduces listeners to both classical Japanese songs and the new emerging pop sound from Japan. A special opportunity for festival attendees this year is to hear a master storyteller and Koto musician Yoko Hiroaka perform a famous Japanese folk tale. Withered cherry trees blossom anew in the story of “Hanasaka Jiisan.”  enjoy “Kyogen” (traditional Japanese comedy) and a Japanese singer performing “Min’yo” (traditional Japanese folk songs). Lots of fun things for kids, teens and adults!

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and children, and free to children under 5.