HYPER JAPAN Festival 2027 – Japanese Culture UK

What to expect in 2027

HYPER JAPAN Festival 2027 is expected to return to London in July as one of the UK’s major celebrations of Japanese culture. The festival brings together contemporary Japanese pop culture, traditional arts, food, fashion, gaming, anime, manga, music, cosplay, crafts and tourism in one large-scale visitor experience. The organisers have confirmed that HYPER JAPAN Festival will return to London in 2027, while the exact 2027 dates and detailed programme remain to be announced.

The event is designed to introduce different aspects of Japan to British and international audiences. Rather than focusing on one cultural category, HYPER JAPAN combines entertainment, shopping, hands-on activities, live performances and cultural demonstrations.

Visitors can expect several distinct areas throughout the festival, including exhibitor stands, the HYPER MARKET, food and drink areas, live performance spaces, workshop areas and community activities. The official festival describes its programme as covering food, traditional culture, anime, games, music, fashion and cosplay.

The 2027 edition is likely to continue the event’s established mix of Japanese traditions and modern Japanese entertainment, although the confirmed artists, exhibitors, workshops and special features should be checked when the official programme is released.

HYPER JAPAN also provides opportunities to discover Japanese products that may be difficult to find elsewhere in the UK. These can include snacks, drinks, stationery, fashion, collectibles, crafts, beauty products, anime merchandise and specialist goods.

For visitors interested in Japanese culture beyond shopping, the workshop and performance programme is particularly important. Previous editions have included tea ceremony, origami, calligraphy, kimono dressing, martial arts, traditional crafts, manga, Japanese language and dance activities.

Event dates

HYPER JAPAN Festival 2027 is scheduled for:

• Month: July 2027
• Exact dates: To be announced
• City: London, United Kingdom
• Expected venue: Olympia London
• Event type: Japanese culture festival and exhibition
• Programme: To be announced

The organisers have confirmed that HYPER JAPAN Festival will return to London in 2027. The official festival page currently asks visitors to stay tuned for updates, while the 2027 programme and exact schedule have not yet been published.

HYPER JAPAN has traditionally operated as a multi-day London event, giving visitors enough time to explore its different sections, performances, market areas and workshops.

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Venue & exhibition site

The established London home of HYPER JAPAN Festival is Olympia London on Hammersmith Road in West London. The venue has hosted recent editions and provides a large indoor environment suitable for exhibitions, retail areas, stages, food vendors and interactive activities.

Olympia London

The venue is located at Hammersmith Road, London W14 8UX. It is served by Kensington Olympia Overground and nearby London Underground and bus connections.

The exhibition environment allows visitors to move between different areas rather than remaining in one performance hall.

Main festival areas

The established HYPER JAPAN format includes:

• Exhibitor areas
• HYPER MARKET
• Food Hall
• Main Stage
• Workshop spaces
• Traditional culture areas
• Anime and gaming zones
• Fashion and cosplay activities
• Special feature areas
• Community activities

The exact floor plan for 2027 will be published closer to the event.

Full exhibition programme

The HYPER JAPAN programme is broader than a traditional art exhibition. It functions as a cultural showcase where visitors can see, purchase, taste and experience different aspects of Japan.

The exhibition programme is expected to include several major themes.

Anime and manga

Anime and manga are central parts of the festival, with merchandise, creators, publishers, collectibles and fan activities forming an important part of the visitor experience.

Gaming

Japanese games and gaming culture are represented through exhibitors, interactive experiences and specialist showcases. Recent editions have also included dedicated Japanese indie-game experiences, including a JETRO-supported gaming area featuring dozens of Japanese titles.

Traditional culture

Traditional Japanese arts and customs are presented through workshops, demonstrations and specialist exhibitors. Previous programmes have covered tea ceremony, calligraphy, ikebana, martial arts, kimono, origami and traditional crafts.

Food and drink

Japanese cuisine has a major presence through food vendors, snack brands, specialist drinks and food-related exhibitors.

Fashion and kawaii culture

Japanese fashion, kawaii products, accessories and cosplay are another major part of the festival.

Tourism

Visitors can also encounter Japanese destinations, tourism organisations and regional representatives promoting travel experiences across Japan.

Featured artists & designers

The confirmed HYPER JAPAN Festival 2027 artist and designer lineup has not yet been announced.

Previous editions have featured a mixture of Japanese musicians, performers, artists, illustrators, craftspeople and cultural specialists. This approach means that the programme can appeal to visitors interested in both contemporary entertainment and traditional Japanese arts.

Recent HYPER JAPAN programmes have included performers such as Eir Aoi, QUEEN BEE, UPIKO, avantgardey, The Sixth Lie, Warakuren, JERO11 and other Japanese and Japan-focused performers. These names are examples from previous programming and should not be treated as confirmed for 2027.

The festival has also featured artists and instructors including Yuki Nakamura, Sonia Leong, Aya Burbanks, Alice Stern and other creative specialists through its workshops.

The 2027 programme is expected to introduce new guests and creators once announcements begin.

Galleries & exhibitors

HYPER JAPAN is not organised around conventional fine-art galleries. Instead, its exhibition floor combines commercial exhibitors, independent creators, cultural organisations, tourism bodies, food companies and specialist Japanese brands.

The organiser promotes HYPER JAPAN as a platform where brands can connect directly with a large audience interested in Japanese culture. It has previously reported more than 53,000 visitors for a London edition and has promoted opportunities for brands, tourism boards and creators to exhibit.

Previous exhibitor categories have included:

• Game and anime
• Traditional culture
• Kawaii
• Tourism
• Food and drink
• Catering
• Japanese alcohol
• Independent creators
• Stationery
• Fashion
• Collectibles

Recent exhibitor examples have included Kewpie, Pentel, Forbidden Planet, Tofu Cute, Clearspring, Panda Cha Tea, KANPAI London Craft Sake and other Japanese-focused brands. These are examples from previous editions rather than a confirmed 2027 exhibitor list.

Exhibition halls & sections

The exact 2027 exhibition layout will depend on the final floor plan, but HYPER JAPAN’s established format provides several distinct areas.

HYPER MARKET

The HYPER MARKET is one of the main shopping areas, bringing together independent creators, artists, retailers and specialist Japanese brands.

Food Hall

The food section provides Japanese meals, snacks, sweets and drinks. Previous programmes have included onigiri, melon pan, Japanese sweets, matcha products and other food experiences.

Main Stage

The main stage is used for music, dance, cultural performances, guest appearances, cosplay and other entertainment.

Traditional Culture

This area focuses on Japanese heritage, arts, crafts, clothing and traditional practices.

Game & Anime

Visitors can discover anime merchandise, games, collectibles and interactive entertainment.

Kawaii & Fashion

Fashion, accessories, character goods and kawaii culture are represented through specialist brands and creators.

Tourism

Tourism organisations and Japanese regional representatives can provide information about destinations, attractions and travel experiences.

Talks, workshops & special events

Hands-on workshops are one of the defining features of HYPER JAPAN. The programme is designed to let visitors actively participate rather than simply watch demonstrations.

Previous workshops have included:

• Japanese tea ceremony
• Origami
• Manga drawing
• Kintsugi
• Sumi painting
• Shodo calligraphy
• Ikebana
• Kimono dressing
• Tsumami-zaiku
• Japanese mask-making
• Furoshiki
• Nerikiri wagashi
• Aikido
• Iaido
• Jujutsu
• Shorinji Kempo
• Awa Odori dance
• Japanese language and cultural sessions

Some activities are included with general admission, while certain workshops or special experiences can require separate add-on tickets. The organiser specifically states that special activities such as workshops and meet-and-greets may require an additional ticket alongside festival admission.

The 2027 workshop schedule should be checked when bookings open because spaces for popular hands-on activities can be limited.

Ticket types

Ticket information for HYPER JAPAN Festival 2027 has not yet been released.

Previous editions have offered several admission formats, including:

• General Admission: Entry for an individual festival session or day.
• Multi-Day Pass: Access across multiple festival days.
• Tomodachi Bundle: A group package designed for friends and families.
• Children’s admission: Children aged 10 and under have previously been eligible for free admission when accompanied by a paying adult, subject to the organiser’s conditions.
• Carer Ticket: Eligible disabled visitors have previously been able to bring one carer free of charge under the organiser’s policy.
• Add-on tickets: Certain workshops and special activities require separate admission.

For reference, previous-edition general admission tickets were advertised from approximately $38, based on a published starting price of £28.35 and a GBP/USD rate around $1.34 per pound. Previous workshop examples included a Japanese tea ceremony session priced at approximately $54 based on a £40 fee. These are historical reference prices only and are not confirmed 2027 prices.

VIP & collector access

HYPER JAPAN does not currently have a confirmed 2027 VIP or collector ticket programme.

Special access at the festival can instead take the form of guest meet-and-greets, limited workshops, special exhibitions, merchandise releases and separately ticketed experiences.

Collectors may find the HYPER MARKET particularly relevant because the event brings together independent artists, Japanese brands, anime merchandise retailers, gaming companies and specialist creators.

Previous editions have also included special merchandise campaigns and exclusive products, giving collectors opportunities to find limited or event-specific goods. The 2027 details will depend on the confirmed exhibitors and partners.

Event rules

Visitors should follow the official admission and safety rules when attending HYPER JAPAN.

Tickets: Admission tickets are generally valid only for the specified session or day and should not be transferred unless the organiser specifically permits it.

Security: Bags and props may be checked by event staff or security personnel.

Identification: Visitors may be asked to provide suitable photo identification.

Children: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Costumes: Costumes and props must comply with safety requirements. The organiser prohibits nudity and certain adult fetish attire and restricts oversized costumes or props that could create safety problems.

Props: Props involving flames, explosions, smoke or exposed electrical effects are prohibited under the event rules.

Animals: Animals are generally not permitted except registered guide or assistance animals.

Visitors should also follow any additional rules displayed at individual workshops, performance areas and exhibition stands.

How to get there

HYPER JAPAN Festival is held at Olympia London, making it relatively straightforward to reach from central London and other parts of the city.

Visitors arriving from central London can travel toward Kensington Olympia using London’s rail and Underground network before continuing on foot to the venue.

For international visitors, London Underground, Overground and mainline rail connections make Olympia accessible from Heathrow and other parts of the capital.

Public transport & parking

Public transport is generally the easiest way to reach Olympia London.

Overground

Kensington Olympia is the principal rail and Overground station for the venue and provides a direct connection close to the exhibition site.

Underground

The District line serves Kensington Olympia at certain times, while Barons Court, Hammersmith and High Street Kensington provide alternative Underground connections with walking or bus connections to Olympia.

Bus

Local routes serving the Olympia area include 9, 23, 27, 28, 49 and 391, with night services also operating on some routes.

Parking

Olympia has paid on-site parking, and advance booking is recommended because spaces are not guaranteed without reservation. The venue is also within London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone, so drivers should check whether their vehicle is subject to the applicable charge.

Accommodation areas

London offers accommodation across a wide range of budgets and neighbourhoods, making it possible to stay close to Olympia or elsewhere in the city.

Kensington

Kensington is one of the most convenient areas for visitors who want to remain relatively close to the venue.

Hammersmith

Hammersmith provides extensive hotel and transport options and has good connections to Olympia.

Earl’s Court

Earl’s Court is another practical base, with Underground access and a variety of accommodation.

Shepherd’s Bush

Shepherd’s Bush offers hotels, restaurants, shopping and transport links, including connections toward Kensington Olympia.

Central London

Visitors who want to combine HYPER JAPAN with sightseeing can stay in central districts and travel to Olympia by Underground or rail.

Because the festival takes place during the busy summer season, visitors should consider booking accommodation well in advance.

Food & refreshments

Japanese food and drink are major attractions at HYPER JAPAN.

The festival’s Food Hall has previously featured Japanese meals, snacks, desserts and drinks alongside other Asian-inspired food options. The organiser has highlighted products such as onigiri, melon pan, Japanese cakes, matcha and bubble tea in previous programmes.

Visitors can expect a mixture of:

• Onigiri
• Japanese sweets
• Matcha drinks
• Melon pan
• Dango
• Japanese snacks
• Tea
• Sake and other specialist drinks
• Japanese-inspired street food

Food and drink availability will depend on the confirmed 2027 vendors.

Visitors with allergies should check individual vendor ingredients before purchasing food, particularly where food is prepared in shared kitchens.

Accessibility

HYPER JAPAN provides accessibility arrangements for visitors with disabilities.

The organiser’s ticket policy allows an eligible disabled visitor to receive one free carer ticket when appropriate evidence is provided.

Olympia is an established exhibition venue with facilities designed for large public events, although the festival can become busy during peak periods.

Carer access: Eligible visitors can request a free carer ticket subject to the organiser’s requirements.

Mobility: Visitors with mobility requirements should consider contacting the organiser before attending if they need specific assistance.

Assistance animals: Registered guide and assistance animals are permitted under the applicable event arrangements.

Crowds: Large attendance levels can make busy areas difficult to navigate, so visitors requiring additional space or assistance may benefit from planning their visit around quieter periods.

Must-see exhibitions

The exact 2027 special exhibitions have not yet been announced, but several types of displays are likely to be important parts of the festival.

Japanese pop culture displays

Anime, manga, games and character culture are among the most visible areas of HYPER JAPAN.

Traditional Japanese arts

Visitors interested in heritage should look for demonstrations and displays involving calligraphy, crafts, kimono, tea culture and traditional arts.

Japanese indie games

Recent editions have featured dedicated Japanese indie gaming showcases, including a JETRO-supported collection of Japanese titles that visitors could play.

Artist and creator market

The HYPER MARKET can be particularly interesting for visitors looking for independent artwork, handmade goods, illustrations, accessories and specialist collectibles.

Food showcases

The food area provides another way to experience Japanese culture through regional flavours, snacks, sweets and drinks.

Previous year’s highlights

The most recent edition featured a broad combination of Japanese music, traditional culture, workshops, cosplay, fashion, food and shopping.

The performance programme included Japanese and international performers, while the workshop programme offered more than a dozen opportunities to experience Japanese arts, crafts and cultural practices.

The festival also featured an extensive exhibitor programme covering anime, games, traditional culture, kawaii products, tourism, food and drink.

One notable special feature was the Made in Japan Collection, which introduced visitors to Japanese independent games through an interactive gaming zone.

The food programme included Japanese dishes, snacks, desserts, matcha and drinks, while the wider festival combined shopping with cultural activities and live entertainment.

The organiser has also published official photo reports covering stage performances, workshops, food and drink, cosplay, fashion and general festival highlights.

Official tickets

HYPER JAPAN Festival 2027 ticket sales have not yet been announced.

The official festival website is the safest place to check when 2027 tickets become available. Visitors should avoid relying on unofficial ticket sellers or resale offers, particularly because the organiser has previously warned about fraudulent communications connected with HYPER JAPAN.

The official website provides festival updates, programme announcements, exhibitor information, workshop details and ticket information as they become available.

HYPER JAPAN official website (https://hyperjapan.co.uk/)