Sat, Oct 4th, 2025

10am – 7pm

Johnson County Community College

Explore Japanese Folklore through Masks & Myths!

Discover the symbolism of the iconic masks of Noh and Kabuki theater. Unveil the mystical tales of the kitsune, oni, tengu, samurai, and more. And even learn how the concepts of honne (true feelings) and tatemae (public persona) reflect an important duality in Japanese society.

Marvel at hand-crafted masks that once warded off demons or summoned good fortune and see how stylized masks in cosplay, known as animegao, serve to blend tradition and modernity in Japan’s pop culture, fashion, and performance arts.

Whether curious about the mysteries of Japan’s masks or inspired by the elegance of various traditional arts, the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival is sure to delight people of all ages. Join us as we showcase a fusion of ancient rituals and modern creative expression highlighting how masks remain powerful tools of transformation, bridging the old and the new in Japan’s ever-evolving cultural narrative. Prepare to be enchanted—every mask tells a story.

SPECIAL PRESALE TICKET DISCOUNT

Buy your tickets online prior to 9/26/25 and get $10 OFF each ticket! Use the code MASKS2025 at checkout.

Buy Tickets Now

2025 MASKS & MYTHS THEME

Discover the symbolism of the iconic masks of Noh and Kabuki theater. Unveil the mystical tales of the kitsune, oni, tengu, samurai, and more. Marvel at hand-crafted masks that once warded off demons or summoned good fortune and see how stylized masks in cosplay serve to blend tradition and modernity in Japan’s pop culture, fashion, and performance arts.

SPECIAL ADD-ON WORKSHOPS

This year’s festival will include three different special workshop add-ons. Choose from mask making workshops, tea ceremony workshops, and calligraphy workshops!

COSPLAY CONTEST & PARADE

Participate in a Masks & Myths themed cosplay contest and parade.

EXCITING PERFORMANCES

Enjoy traditional Japanese music, singing and dancing, storytelling, martial arts demonstrations, and Taiko drumming!

JAPANESE FOOD

Savor delicious traditional foods, snack and sweets from food vendors and markets.

KID'S ACTIVITIES

Fun activities and traditional Japanese games for children, craft shop, origami kits, shopping booths, and more.

EXHIBITS & DISPLAYS

Ikebana, Bonsai, Samurai armor, kimonos, and Japanese dolls.