Matsuri Byron Bay brings a taste of Japan to town

JAPANESE dancers, drummers and street food will take over Main Beach this Saturday, October 18 as the free Matsuri Japan Byron Bay returns.

Festival director Mayu Akiba said Matsuri — which means “festival” in Japanese — provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and cuisine without leaving Byron.

Performances throughout the day will include Bon Odori, a traditional folk dance associated with Obon, Japan’s summer festival of remembrance for ancestors.

“It’s a community dance where everyone — children, adults and elders — joins in a circle to dance with taiko drums and festive songs,” Akiba said.

“Each region in Japan has its own dance style, song and rhythm. Some are graceful and slow, others lively and fast. Awa Odori is just one, from the Tokushima area.”

The family-friendly event will also feature live music, traditional kids’ games, craft workshops and market stalls selling kimonos and traditional goods.

“This year we are planning a photo booth where you can dress up as a kimono or samurai and have your picture taken by a professional photographer,” Akiba said.

Akiba, who is also the founder of Byron Taiko, encouraged attendees to bring a picnic blanket and enjoy dinner from one of the many Japanese street food stalls set beneath glowing paper lanterns.

The food lineup includes handmade onigiri, teppanyaki noodles, flame-grilled yakitori, and premium Wagyu wraps cooked fresh on the grill. Festival-goers can also enjoy takoyaki (octopus balls), savoury okonomiyaki pancakes and crispy gyoza.

For something sweet, try traditional wagashi confections, kakigori shaved ice, mochi gelato, or a matcha latte brewed with Kyoto’s renowned Uji tea.

To wash it all down, Yulli’s Brews will host a pop-up beer garden, while new sake bar HAVEN at OTHERWORLD will also have a bar.

Matsuri Japan Byron Bay runs from 2pm to 8pm this Saturday, October 18 at Main Beach Byron Bay.