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X-WR-CALNAME:Kansas City Japan Festival
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Kansas City Japan Festival
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TZID:America/Chicago
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260929T192347Z
CREATED:20221001T213646Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T192347Z
UID:10000092-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Food Vendors
DESCRIPTION:View Details and Full Menus of Food Vendors on the Food & Refreshments Page. \n\nCOM 1ST FLOOR\nCOM 152 & 153 DINING AREAS • JCCC FOOD COURT\nKC Craft Ramen: Takoyaki\, Chicken Karaage\, Yakisoba\, Yakitori Bowls\, Shrimp Tempura Bowls\, Onigiri\, Kushi Dango\, Taiyaki\, Mochi Ice Cream\, and Ramune drinks. See Full Menu.  \nKiwami Ramen & Sushi: Japanese Curry with Chicken or Beef\, Tempura Shrimp Sushi Tacos\, Spicy Edamame\, Pork and Beef Buns\, Fried Dumplings\, Takoyaki\, Salmon Avocado Rolls\, California Rolls\, and Boba Tea. See Full Menu.  \nJCCC Dining: Yakisoba with Teriyaki Chicken or Ginger Beef\, Noodle Bowls\, Tempura Shrimp\, Pork Gyoza\, Vegetable Egg Rolls\, and Boba Tea. See Full Menu. \n\nMTC 1ST FLOOR\nJCCC Encore Espresso: Serving Hot Coffee\, Iced Coffee\, Lattes\, Chai\, Matcha\, Mocha\, Smoothies\, and Sushi\, along with Coca-Cola beverages. See Full Menu.  \n\nMTC 2nd Floor\nMTC Second Floor Landing\n Mari’s Custom Cookies: Japanese-inspired sweets including Decorated Sugar Cookies\, Cake Pops\, Matcha Brownies\, Matcha Strawberry Cookies\, Ube Marble Cookies\, and Mochi & Black Sesame Flan. See Full Menu.  \nMTC 219\nOriental Supermarket: Packaged Japanese snacks\, treats\, and goodies\, including breads\, chips\, mochi\, candy\, drinks\, and more. See Full Menu. \n\nRegnier Center: CapFed Conference Center\nRC 101 • 1ST FLOOR\nBoba Love: BBoba Milk Tea\, Boba Refresher Tea\, and Mochi Donuts. See Full Menu. 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/food-vendors/
LOCATION:COM: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Food & Refreshments
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/KCRamen3.jpg
GEO:38.924353968704;-94.729853391843
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260929T222127Z
CREATED:20250925T183607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T222127Z
UID:10000240-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Sumo Stamp Passport
DESCRIPTION:Festival Wide\nSumo Stamp Passport\nCollect six stamps. Build one ukiyo-e inspired print.\nThis year’s Festival stamp hunt has an ukiyo-e inspired twist! Instead of six separate stamps\, each stamp will be a layer of the same image! Travel throughout the Festival to find six stamp stations\, with each stop adding a new layer to your Sumo Stamp Passport. Watch the image gradually come together in a process inspired by the layered color printing of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. \nShow the completed card to the Japan Festival Booth (MTC 2 Floor Merchandise Table) to receive a sticker of the printed image.  \nYou may obtain stamps in any order\, but to maintain stamp quality\, we recommend visiting the 2nd floor MTC stamp station last!  \n\n Find the 6 layers of the stamps: \n\nGEB 202 Turnsol Books on the 2nd Floor\nCOM 201: JCCC Global Engagement Office\nSC (Student Center) 1st Floor Lobby\nOCB 100 1st Floor Japanese Bazaar\nRC (Regnier Center) 2nd Floor\n2nd Floor MTC Alzheimer’s Association Table\n\n  \n\nAbout the Artwork:\nSumo in the Heartland\nOriginal artwork by Meghan May \nInspired by traditional Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints\, this original illustration features a sumo wrestler framed by the torii gate displayed at the entrance to the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival. Japanese maple leaves symbolize the festival’s autumn season\, while sunflowers\, the state flower of Kansas\, and Big Bluestem\, Missouri’s state grass\, represent the natural heritage of the two neighboring states. The Kansas City skyline highlights the enduring connection between Kansas City and Japan through cultural exchange and friendship. Created for the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival\, the piece celebrates the shared traditions\, landscapes\, and relationships that bring the two communities together. \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/stamp-passport/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities,Sumo Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/sumo-print-layer-image-1200.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260927T204616Z
CREATED:20221001T165454Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T204616Z
UID:10000071-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Woven in Time: The Enduring Legacy of the Kimono Exhibit
DESCRIPTION:RC 270 • Regnier Center • The Cube • Second Floor\nView a PDF of the Exhibit Brochure\nWoven in Time: The Enduring Legacy of the Kimono Exhibit\nStep into the beauty and tradition of Japan’s most iconic garment at the Woven in Time: The Enduring Legacy of the Kimono exhibit. Explore exquisite kimono styles—from elegant to casual—and learn about the intricate accessories and artistry that give each piece meaning. This exhibit showcases how kimono reflect Japanese history\, craftsmanship\, and cultural identity across the centuries.\n\n\n  \nThe word Kimono simply means “things to wear” and is the traditional clothing of Japan. It is a long robe with wide sleeves worn as an outer garment. A sash\, called an Obi\, complements the kimono. The Obi is worn around the mid-section of the body. \nToday\, there are many different types and styles of Kimono worn by men\, women and children. The color\, cut\, fabric and decorations of a Kimono may vary according to sex\, age and marital status of the wearer\, the season of the year and the occasion for which the Kimono is worn. \nKimonos are made of silk and are usually very expensive. Today they are worn at formal or traditional occasions such as weddings and tea ceremonies. To put on a Kimono takes much practice and time. Tying the belt or Obi alone is so difficult that it may require assistance from a friend.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kimono-and-obi-display/
LOCATION:RC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/kimono-display.jpg
GEO:38.924339003741;-94.72682117767
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260926T200831Z
CREATED:20221001T170113Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T200831Z
UID:10000074-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Ikebana Display
DESCRIPTION:MTC 1st Floor Lobby\nIkebana Display\nBy the Sogetsu School\nIkebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. Take time to enjoy the Ikebana displays in the lobbies of the Midwest Trust Center\, and the Student Center\, provided by members of the Sogetsu School.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/ikebana-display/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/large-ikebana-display-2.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260926T200732Z
CREATED:20221001T170704Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T200732Z
UID:10000077-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Torii Gate Entryway to the Festival
DESCRIPTION:MTC 1st Floor Lobby\nTorii Gate Entryway to the Festival\nThe large Torii Gate that leads all visitors into the GKC Japan Festival is a depiction/large model of one of the most famous Torii Gates in all of Japan at the Itsukushima Shrine near Hiroshima.\nThe Torii gate at the Festival is approximately 14 feet tall and the top crossbar is about 16 feet long.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/torii-gate-entryway-to-the-festival/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/toriigate.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260926T205523Z
CREATED:20221001T174548Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T205523Z
UID:10000091-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Kids Games - Outdoor
DESCRIPTION:MTC Courtyard • Outside\nJapanese Kids Games\nCome and enjoy traditional Japanese festival games for kids\, and win prizes!\nHosted by the KC Japanese School.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-game-activities-for-children/
LOCATION:MTC: Courtyard (outside)
CATEGORIES:Special Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/kids-games-2.jpg
GEO:38.924781845511;-94.728036897336
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260926T200428Z
CREATED:20231002T192416Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T200428Z
UID:10000112-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japan Festival Merchandise
DESCRIPTION:MTC 2nd Floor Landing\nJapan Festival Merchandise\nT-Shirts\, Enamel Pins\, Tote Bags\, Stickers\, Prints and other KC Japan Festival Merch for sale. \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japan-festival-merchandise/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2026-Merch-Hero.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260929T195434Z
CREATED:20231003T144021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T195434Z
UID:10000139-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Vendor Booths
DESCRIPTION:Throughout the festival\, shop artist\, merch\, and vendor booths\, plus find information from organizations and sponsors! \n  \n\nRegnier Center 101 (Capital Federal Conference Room)\nAki Clothing: aki-clothing.com \nAstrawitch: astrawitchart.com \nBubble Wrapp: bubblewrapptoys.com \nGravitysoda Creations: gravitysoda.carrd.com \nIvy Tompkins: ivytompkins.com \nMagical Mews: magical-mews.square.site \nNaka-Kon: www.naka-kon.com \nOtaku Gardens: https://otakugardens.com/ \nPew-Pew Studio: etsy.com/shop/pewpewstudioart \nPlanet Anime: planetanimekc.com \nTaiyaki Collectibles Gachapon: taiyakicollectibles.com \nThe Artisan Rogue: theartisanrogue.com \nThe Laughing Crow: thelaughingcrow13.etsy.com \nTipTop: linktr.ee/tiptopart \nTruly Madly Depot: https://trlymdly.com/ \nJPNToys: jpntoys-109562.square.site/ \nComic Endeavors: comicendeavors.com \n  \n\nRC Atrium • Regnier Center\nKeiko Furoshiki: keikofuroshiki.com \n  \n\nGEB (General Education Building) • 2nd Floor\nALL Anime: allanimeshop.com \nKC Craft Ramen: kccraftramen.com \nTurnsol Books: IG: @turnsolbooks \nLevel One Game Shop: LevelOneGameShop.com \nBilingual Writer & Japanese Textbooks: bilingualwriterjapanese.com \n  \n\nOCB (Office and Classroom Building) • 1st Floor • CoLab\nBopBopKat: BopBopKat.com \nHeart of America Japan-America Society: kcjas.org  \nIndependence Sister City \nNine Cats Art Studio \nJMCraftStore \n  \n\nOCB (Office and Classroom Building) • 2nd Floor\nAllieKatten: alliekatten.com \nWhite Rabbit: etsy.com/shop/WhiteRabbitUSA \nKeito Illustration: Instagram.com/keito_nomoto \nSketchbook Sisters: www.etsy.com/shop/DarkmagicSWH \n  \n\nMTC (Midwest Trust Center) • 2nd Floor\nIijima Shoten: Art & Clothing \nOn Your Bark!: on-your-bark.com \nTag Team Tompkins: tagteamtompkins.esty.com \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/vendor-booths/
LOCATION:RC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Manga_Vendors_0284-1200.jpg
GEO:38.924456599398;-94.726959851526
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261003
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261004
DTSTAMP:20260927T204650Z
CREATED:20251002T141808Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T204650Z
UID:10000273-1790985600-1791071999@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Delicate Beauty\, Fierce Devotion: Samurai Armor & Festival Dolls of Japan
DESCRIPTION:RC 270 • Regnier Center • The Cube • Second Floor\nView a PDF of the Exhibit Brochure\nDelicate Beauty\, Fierce Devotion: Japanese Models of Health\, Safety\, Strength\, and Courage\nSamurai Armor & Festival Dolls of Japan\nThe exhibit Delicate Beauty\, Fierce Devotion highlights the traditions of Japan’s celebrated warrior culture and family rituals\, featuring intricately crafted Samurai armor alongside exquisite dolls displayed for Girls’ Day and Children’s Day. From protective ō-yoroi (great armor) to Hina dolls believed to shield daughters from harm\, these objects embody Japan’s devotion to health\, safety\, strength\, and courage—values passed down through generations.\n  \n\n  \nFeatured in this Exhibit:\nTraditional Samurai Armor Display\nThe Samurai armor on display in our exhibit area is a replica of traditional Samurai armor worn many centuries ago in Japan. The manufacturer of the armor\, Marutake Sangyo\, is Japan’s\, and the worlds’\, premier producer of fine Samurai Yoroi Armor. Located in Satsuma-Sendai city of Japan’s southwestern Kagoshima prefecture\, the firm’s reputation for creating products of unparalleled quality has given them more than a 90-percent share of the Japanese armor market. From television dramas\, such as Yoshitsune\, to feature films\, including Akira Kurosawa’s classics\, Kagemusha\, and Ran\, Marutake Sangyo has shared the spirit of the Samurai with the world. Having produced thousands of suits of armor\, their clientele extends from the entertainment industry to temples\, museums and even the Queen of England. \nJapanese Hina Doll Display\nAlso known as Hinamatsuri\, “girl’s day” is celebrated each year on March 3. During this holiday\, families wish for the health and happiness of their daughters and display Hina dolls in the home. A traditional Hinamatsuri doll set is on display at the festival. Japanese traditional dolls are known by the name Ningyo in Japan\, which literally means human shape. There are various types of Japanese dolls\, one traditional type is for festival celebrations such as Hinamatsuri\, the doll festival\, or Kodomo no Hi\, Children’s Day. \nChildren’s Day (Boy’s Warrior) Doll\nAlso on display is a beautiful “musha ningyo” warrior doll in a samurai costume. May 5 of each year is a National Holiday that celebrates Children’s Day in Japan. Originally the day was celebrated as “Boy’s Day” to correspond to the Doll Festival for Girls (where families display the Hina Dolls that is held on March 3. However\, the symbols of courage and strength mainly honor boys on May 5. It is the custom for families with male children to fly Koinobori (large fish flags) outside of the home. They represent a symbol of success. Families also eat chimaki and kashiwamochi (different types of special rice cakes) and display warrior dolls (“musha ningyo”) in the home during this celebration.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/delicate-beauty-fierce-devotion-samurai-armor-festival-dolls-of-japan/
LOCATION:RC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/hina-doll-display.jpg
GEO:38.924339003741;-94.72682117767
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T104500
DTSTAMP:20260929T204916Z
CREATED:20260929T204619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T204916Z
UID:10000324-1791021600-1791024300@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Anime Screening: Tsurune
DESCRIPTION:NERMAN 2ND FLOOR • HUDSON AUDITORIUM\nAnime Screening: Tsurune\nMinato Narumiya once loved kyudo\, the traditional Japanese art of archery\, but a difficult experience caused him to leave the sport behind. When he enters high school\, a chance encounter draws him back to the bow and a new team of friends. Tsurune is a beautifully animated coming-of-age story about friendship\, perseverance\, and rediscovering a passion you thought you had lost. \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/anime-screening-tsurune/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Anime Screenings
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T113000
DTSTAMP:20261001T154306Z
CREATED:20240730T155810Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T154306Z
UID:10000280-1791021600-1791027000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kintsugi Workshops
DESCRIPTION:THIS IS A TICKETED ADD-ON WORKSHOP: $80\nMTC 212 • 2nd Floor • 10:00 AM\, 1:00 PM\, 4:00 PM\nPurchase your ticketed workshops here. \nKintsugi Workshops\nInstructed by Kurt Caddy\nJoin artist Kurt Caddy for a hands-on workshop\, learning the “art of transformation”. Kintsugi 金継ぎ\, meaning ‘golden repair’\, is the ancient Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by mending the areas of breakage with powdered gold or other metal.\n\n90 minute workshop. Each participant will be given a tea bowl to repair. Kurt will guide the participants through the process of Kintsugi repair and they will take their repaired bowl home as a valued keepsake. \nEach workshop is limited to 25 participants and is best suited for ages 13 and older.\n\nABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR\nKurt Caddy is an artist who believes that art is generative and transformative. He believes that one of the roles of an artist is to help (or force) the viewer to ‘see the unseen’. For him\, art springs from a deeper place within his mind and heart and overflows in abstract paintings and sculptures. \nKurt is also a kintsugi artist. Kintsugi is the 15th Century art of mending tea bowls with gold. He believes that art can help portray the idea of a redeemed beauty and transformation is indeed possible. He calls this the “art of transformation”. \nKurt had the very fortunate opportunity to study with Makoto Fujimura\, a contemporary nihonga artist and author. Makoto Fujimura developed a technique for kintsugi that is quicker and simpler than the traditional method\, yet shares the same philosophy\, beauty\, and symbolism of repairing what is broken and the metaphor for embracing your flaws and imperfections. Kurt learned this procedure from Makoto and will be offering this unique workshop at the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival on October 5\, 2024. \nIn addition to Makoto Fujimura\, Kurt has been influenced by artists such as Grace Boden\, Mark Rothko\, and Kandinsky. His is also heavily influenced by Japanese and native American cultures. He has exhibited work in Arkansas\, Pennsylvania\, Missouri\, and New York.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kintsugi-workshops/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Paid Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Kintsugi-2up.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T170000
DTSTAMP:20260927T204005Z
CREATED:20221001T170509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T204005Z
UID:10000076-1791021600-1791046800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Bonsai and Suiseki Display
DESCRIPTION:SC Lobby (Student Center) • 1st Floor\nBonsai and Suiseki Display\nBy the Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City\nAll day in the second floor lobby of the Midwest Trust Center\, the Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City has been in existence since 1968 and was formed to promote the interest and appreciation of the art of bonsai through education\, training\, information and exhibitions. \nWe are privileged to have the Society provide an exhibition of a wide variety of bonsai styles and plant materials for our Festival again this year. Society members will be at the exhibit to answer questions and demonstrate how plants are pruned\, shaped\, trained and wired. \nYou will also enjoy their Suiseki displays. Suiseki (sui = water\, seki = stone) is the study and enjoyment of naturally formed stones as objects of beauty.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/bonsai-and-suiseki-display/
LOCATION:SC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/bonsai.jpg
GEO:38.924637406872;-94.730239304009
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T170000
DTSTAMP:20260926T202453Z
CREATED:20240922T193741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T202453Z
UID:10000207-1791021600-1791046800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Yukata and Kimono Kitsuke Portraits
DESCRIPTION:MTC 122 • First Floor\nYukata and Kimono Kitsuke Portraits\nVolunteers will dress you in authentic Kimono or Yukata and take your picture with your camera/phone in front of a Japanese Backdrop.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/yukata-and-kimono-kitsuke-portraits/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Kids_DressUp_1200.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T180000
DTSTAMP:20260926T201108Z
CREATED:20221001T170245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T201108Z
UID:10000075-1791021600-1791050400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Ikebana Exhibit
DESCRIPTION:RC Atrium • First Floor\nIkebana Exhibit\nBy the Sogetsu School of Ikebana\nThis exhibit of the beautiful art of Ikebana will give everyone an opportunity to see both traditional and contemporary styles of this distinctively Japanese art form.\nLearn about the Japanese art of flower arranging (Ikebana) from masters of the Sogetsu School and their students. Members and students of the Sogetsu School will be on hand at the exhibit to answer questions and explain the techniques used so that attendees can better appreciate this increasingly popular style of flower arranging.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/ikebana-exhibit/
LOCATION:RC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Exhibits & Displays
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ikebana-displays.jpg
GEO:38.924456599398;-94.726959851526
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T180000
DTSTAMP:20260927T204400Z
CREATED:20221001T171422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T204400Z
UID:10000079-1791021600-1791050400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Video Gaming Room
DESCRIPTION:RC 181 & RC 183 • Regnier Center • First Floor\nCome and play video games!
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/video-gaming/
LOCATION:RC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities
GEO:38.924456599398;-94.726959851526
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T180000
DTSTAMP:20260927T194717Z
CREATED:20221001T173904Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T194717Z
UID:10000088-1791021600-1791050400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Bazaar Shopping
DESCRIPTION:OCB 100 • 1st Floor CoLab\nJapanese Bazaar Shopping\nThere are many opportunities to shop for unique Japanese crafts\, Kimono\, yukata\, Happi coats\, Kokeshi dolls\, games\, books\, Japanese serving ware\, ceramics (sake sets and tea sets) and much more.\nPARTICIPATING BOOTHS: \n\nHeart of America Japan-America Society: www.kcjas.org\nBopBopKat: www.bopbopkat.com\nNine Cats Art Studio\nIndependence Sister Cities\nJM Craft Store\n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-bazaar-shopping-extravaganza/
LOCATION:OCB: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Bazaar-1200.jpg
GEO:38.924376922342;-94.72850289963
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T225000
DTSTAMP:20260926T141613Z
CREATED:20260926T135223Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T141613Z
UID:10000302-1791021600-1791067800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Sumo - More Than a Match: From Ancient Ritual to Modern Ring
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor\nSumo – More Than a Match: From Ancient Ritual to Modern Ring\nPresenter: Kristin (Rain) Caswell\nExplore the fascinating world of Sumo with enthusiast Kristin (Rain) Caswell! We’ll demystify the sport’s sacred Shinto roots\, grueling daily training\, and emotional retirement ceremonies. From legendary past champions to the exciting new era of current Yokozuna\, discover how this ancient ritual thrives today.\n\nABOUT THE PRESENTER \nKristin (Rain) Caswell is an avid Japanese culture enthusiast specializing in Shinto\, etiquette\, and Sumo. She has shared Sumo’s sacred Shinto roots through presentations and has volunteered at several Midwest conventions including Naka-Kon and Anime St. Louis. Kristin is excited to foster cross-cultural connections at this year’s festival! \n\nIMAGE CITATION \nHaguroyama Masaji performing the yokozuna dohyō-iri\, 1941. Photographer unknown. Public domain\, via Wikimedia Commons.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/sumo-more-than-a-match/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Sumo Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Haguroyama_Dohyo-iri_1200.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T101500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T104500
DTSTAMP:20260922T224719Z
CREATED:20231002T145618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T224719Z
UID:10000104-1791022500-1791024300@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japan Festival Opening Ceremony
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre • 10:15 AM\nThe Japan Festival Opening Ceremony will include music\, introduction and remarks by distinguished guests and the ritual of Kagami-wari – the breaking of a sake barrel and toast to open the festival\, plus a special performance from Three Trails Taiko.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japan-festival-opening-ceremony/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Festival_Opening_8828-1200.jpg
GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTSTAMP:20260927T205011Z
CREATED:20240919T184917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T205011Z
UID:10000322-1791023400-1791025200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Furoshiki Gift Wrapping Workshop
DESCRIPTION:NMOCA 212 • Nerman Museum • 2nd Floor\nFuroshiki Gift Wrapping Workshop\nInstructed by Keiko Kira\nFuroshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used to wrap gifts and everyday objects for transportation. Furoshiki originated in Japan\, and was originally used to wrap and transport clothes to the public baths — or furo.\nKeiko uses recycled polyester furoshiki that are a beautiful\, fun\, and sustainable alternative to disposable wrapping paper. With multiple uses beyond gift wrapping\, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Learn to wrap\, tie\, and repurpose a furoshiki in this informative and fun workshop.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/furoshiki-gift-wrapping-workshop/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/furoshiki-Keiko-Kira.jpg
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T112000
DTSTAMP:20260923T192105Z
CREATED:20260923T191804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T192105Z
UID:10000298-1791023400-1791026400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Legacy of Japan’s Masked Heroes
DESCRIPTION:GEB 233: Craig Auditorium\nThe Legacy of Japan’s Masked Heroes\nPresenter: Matt Burkett\nThis presentation explores the rich history of Japan’s masked heroes—from Kamen Rider and Kikaider to Super Sentai and GARO—and examines the cultural traditions\, industries\, and ideas that shaped them.\nThrough their distinctive transformations\, poses\, costumes\, action\, and merchandising\, these heroes have become an enduring part of Japanese popular culture\, influencing audiences and entertainment worldwide. \n\nABOUT THE PRESENTER \nMatt Burkett is widely respected in the Western tokusatsu community as a historian\, filmmaker\, and the creator behind the YouTube channel Monstrosities: A Channel of Tokusatsu. His work spans official home‑video production\, archival research\, and independent filmmaking. \nOfficial Blu‑ray Special Features & Production: Matt collaborates with Media Blasters to curate premium physical releases for classic tokusatsu titles. His recent work includes producing\, directing\, and editing bonus materials for the Kamen Rider Dyad (2025) Blu‑ray set\, as well as the Kamen Rider Trilogy collection. He has directed mini‑documentaries\, recorded audio commentaries\, and written essays for collector booklets. His contributions also extend to releases such as GARO: TAIGA and Lady Battle Cop. \nTokusatsu Historian & Community Work: Through his channel and social media presence\, Matt creates deeply researched retrospectives\, including the multi‑part Kamen Rider Gaia project. He has hosted panels at genre events\, supported the Japanese Film Festival AZ\, and contributed to programming for events like Kaiju Go! \nFan Films & Acting: Earlier in his career\, Matt directed and starred in independent tokusatsu fan films such as Legna XX (2010) and Apollyon (2018) and collaborated on parody and tribute projects within the community.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/the-legacy-of-japans-masked-heroes/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T113000
DTSTAMP:20260927T193830Z
CREATED:20220926T221400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T193830Z
UID:10000311-1791023400-1791027000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Shakuhachi Workshop
DESCRIPTION:MTC 224 •  2nd Floor\nShakuhachi Workshop\nInstructed by David Kansuke Wheeler\nLearn how to play the Japanese bamboo flute during this workshop with master David Kansuke Wheeler.\n\nAbout David Kansuke Wheeler\nDavid Kansuke Wheeler is a musician and musicologist. David visited Japan in 1977 as an exchange student and entered the tutelage of shakuhachi master Junsuke Kawase III. In 1981\, he returned to Japan on a Japanese Education Ministry scholarship to do graduate study at the Tokyo University of Fine Arts and Music\, where he received his M. A. in musicology in 1985. \nDavid has spent many decades immersed in the world of classical shakuhachi (bamboo flute)\, both during his long residence in Japan and now in the US. He now works to present this fascinating instrument and its musical charms to international audiences. \nSince 1982\, David has been performing\, teaching\, lecturing\, and writing about the shakuhachi and Japanese music both in Japan and around the world and has made numerous performance appearances on Japanese television and radio.\nWhile he specializes in the classical traditions of Sankyoku ensemble and Kinko-ryu Honkyoku\, his performance activities cover the full range of music today; everything from Japanese to Western\, from classical to the avant garde. \nDavid was a visiting Japanese music lecturer and shakuhachi instructor at the College of Music at the University of Colorado\, where he co-organized and prepared the World Shakuhachi Festival 1998 (July 5-11) at CU Boulder\, and also lectures and instructs students at Naropa University. \nIn addition to performing and teaching\, he also organizes and produces major events including World Shakuhachi Festivals and Shakuhachi Study Camps. His performances with koto player Yoko Hiraoka are well known. He has made great contributions to the Kansas City Japan Festival in the past\, and we hope he will continue with us. He lives in Boulder\, Colorado\, and teaches\, lectures and performs around the US\, in Japan and elsewhere.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/shakuhachi-workshop-with-david-kansuke-wheeler/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WheelerWorkshop-1200.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T113000
DTSTAMP:20260922T163322Z
CREATED:20250928T214330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T163322Z
UID:10000292-1791023400-1791027000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Hidden Ninja Taiko Drumming Workshop
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Courtyard (outside) • 10:30 AM & 12:00 PM\nHidden Ninja Taiko Drumming Workshop\nCome try some Taiko! Hidden Ninja Taiko will offer outdoor Taiko workshops.\nHidden Ninja Taiko is a KC based taiko troop that focuses on better playing through fundamentals and an understanding of body mechanics. We apply these understandings to our performances creating a shared energetic experience.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/hidden-ninja-taiko/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:MTC: Courtyard (outside)
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Taiko_Workshop_9853-1200.jpg
GEO:38.924781845511;-94.728036897336
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T153000
DTSTAMP:20260927T202504Z
CREATED:20221001T155535Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T202504Z
UID:10000055-1791023400-1791041400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Games of Go and Shogi
DESCRIPTION:GEB 256 • Second Floor\nThe Games of Go and Shogi\nLed by Steve Woodsmall & Greater Kansas City Go Club (Daniel Gentry)\nCome to this workshop to play actual games\, see demonstrations and competition games\, and hear a brief discussion of the history and rules of “go” and “shogi.”\nLearn about the game “go” that inspires laughter and anger\, love and obsession; that creates and destroys worlds. Based on three simple rules\, it is the game that inspired the world-famous series “Hikaru no Go.” \nSteve Woodsmall is an international attorney who lived and worked in Japan for 12 years. He learned to play “go” and “shogi” during that time. \nDaniel Gentry has played “go” for over 23 years and has achieved a ranking of Shodan. Daniel started playing “go” in 1999 and has taught and promoted “go” at the KC Japan Festival and in the Kansas City area for many years.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/the-games-of-go-and-shogi/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Special Activities,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/game-of-go-1200.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T104500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T113000
DTSTAMP:20260929T204957Z
CREATED:20260929T204957Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T204957Z
UID:10000325-1791024300-1791027000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Anime Screening: Azumanga Daioh
DESCRIPTION:NERMAN 2ND FLOOR • HUDSON AUDITORIUM\nAnime Screening: Azumanga Daioh\nFollow a wonderfully eccentric group of students through the funny\, strange\, and surprisingly memorable moments of everyday high school life. Azumanga Daioh is a beloved slice-of-life comedy filled with quirky characters\, absurd humor\, unusual teachers\, and the small adventures that make growing up unforgettable. \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/anime-screening-azumanga-daioh/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Anime Screenings
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T113000
DTSTAMP:20260926T203147Z
CREATED:20231002T185607Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260926T203147Z
UID:10000157-1791025200-1791027000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Fun Japanese for Kids
DESCRIPTION:MTC 126A • 1st Floor\nFun Japanese for Kids\nKotoko Grass\nIn this beginning workshop\, kids will learn to say various everyday phrases and how to read some basic Japanese\, all through fun activities.\nWho wants a head start in learning Japanese in this first-level workshop? This 40-minute class is for elementary school-age children. Participants will learn to say various everyday phrases and how to read some basic Japanese\, all through fun activities. \nGuardians\, please stand by at the site the whole time. (Limited to 13 children due to the classroom size.)
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/fun-with-japanese/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T115000
DTSTAMP:20260929T193854Z
CREATED:20221001T154853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260929T193854Z
UID:10000277-1791025200-1791028200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Calligraphy Workshop
DESCRIPTION:THIS IS A TICKETED ADD-ON WORKSHOP: $20\nMTC 234 • 2nd Floor • 11:00 AM\, 1:30 PM\, 5:00 PM\nPurchase your ticketed workshops here. \nJapanese Calligraphy Workshop\nAlso known as shodou (the way of the brush)\, this art form is a revered centuries-old tradition and Zen practice which evokes harmony\, beauty\, and balance.\nParticipants will learn how to prepare their mind for shodou and how to engage the brush and ink with the paper while practicing standard brush strokes used in writing kanji characters. Each participant will complete their own calligraphy omiyage* piece to display in their home. All supplies are provided. \nEach workshop is limited to 25 participants and is best suited for ages 13 and older. \n*omiyage means souvenir or gift
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/calligraphy-workshop/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Paid Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/calligraphy-thumb-1.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T115000
DTSTAMP:20260923T152745Z
CREATED:20260923T152208Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T152745Z
UID:10000296-1791025200-1791028200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Out of the Ring: The Lesser-Known History of Sumo
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor • 11:00 AM\nOut of the Ring: The Lesser-Known History of Sumo\nPresented by Morgan Williamson and Yayoi Shinoda\nWhat do celebrity culture\, religious institutions\, and strong women have in common? Surprisingly\, the answer is sumo. During the Edo period\, sumo was a very popular form of entertainment. Star wrestlers were celebrities\, and their portraits circulated widely in colorful prints that captivated devoted fans.\nIn this presentation\, we will look at these portraits while highlighting lesser-known sides of sumo: its important role in supporting temples and shrines\, and its long associations with strong women. Sumo tournaments generated financial support for temples and shrines. And although women are often prohibited from participating today\, their connection to the sport dates back centuries\, with women’s sumo competitions developing as entertainment. \n\nABOUT THE PRESENTERS \nMorgan Williamson is a PhD Candidate at the University of Kansas\, Department of Art History. Her research interests focus on painting and print making of Early Modern periods of Japan and East Asia. She is particularly interested in the role women played: as creators\, consumers\, and subjects who influenced the world of art of their time and its continuing history into modernity. She is also interested in looking at how narrative art and eventually manga and modernity have shaped and combatted gender norms and what roles these works have played in the culture and the impact of those trajectories on modern and contemporary artistic productions. Other research interests include religion and art\, and the role(s) play in Asian mythology. \nYayoi Shinoda\, PhD\, is Associate Curator of Japanese art at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. She has held curatorial positions at the Nelson-Atkins since 2013 and has contributed to various projects and exhibitions\, including the exhibitions Weaving Splendor: Treasures of Asian Textiles and Hokusai: Waves of Inspiration. She holds a PhD in the history of Japanese Art from the University of Kansas. See her current exhibit\, Water Embodied: Flow and Meaning of Water in Japanese Art\, on display in the Japanese Gallery at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art through Nov 22\, 2026. Learn more at Nelson-Atkins.org \n\nIMAGE CITATION  \nImage: Ichiyōsai Toyokuni and Kōchōrō Toyokuni\, Illustration of a Kanjin Grand Sumo Tournament (勧進大相撲興行之図)\, published by Aritaya / Aritaya Seiemon. National Diet Library Digital Collections.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/out-of-the-ring-the-lesser-known-history-of-sumo/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Sumo Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/sumo-print-stitch.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T120000
DTSTAMP:20261001T154221Z
CREATED:20250928T205621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T154221Z
UID:10000255-1791025200-1791028800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese: Meeting\, Greeting & Daily Expressions
DESCRIPTION:MTC 126B • 1st Floor\nJapanese Meeting\, Greeting & Daily Expressions\nInstructed by Maki Gonzalez\nAttend this Japanese language workshop to learn important phrases for meetings\, greetings and other daily Japanese expressions.\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-meeting-greeting-daily-expressions/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T120000
DTSTAMP:20260927T195653Z
CREATED:20250929T133131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T195653Z
UID:10000316-1791025200-1791028800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Travel Conversation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:GEB 213 • Second Floor\nJapanese Travel Conversation Workshop\nInstructed by Isoko Durbin\nA language workshop to learn about the basic travel conversations in Japanese.\n  \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-travel-conversation-workshop/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T120000
DTSTAMP:20260927T212736Z
CREATED:20260811T203347Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260927T212736Z
UID:10000287-1791025200-1791028800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Sumo Performance
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Yardley Hall • 11:00 AM\, 3:00 PM\nSumo Performance\nPerformed by Tatsuosho and the Shōgeki Sumo Team\nExperience the power\, tradition\, and excitement of Sumo Wrestling as former professional wrestler Tatsuosho brings centuries of tradition to life with the Shōgeki Sumo Team and Three Trails Taiko.\nFeaturing TATSUOSHO\, a former professional sumo wrestler from Japan\, and the Shōgeki Sumo Team\, this action-packed 45-minute performance brings audiences up close to one of Japan’s most iconic traditions. \nMore than just a wrestling exhibition\, the performance explores the fundamentals\, history\, rituals\, and cultural significance of sumo. Learn about the traditions surrounding the ring\, discover how sumo wrestlers train and compete\, and watch exciting matches demonstrating the strength\, balance\, and technique behind the sport. \nThe performance also features live taiko drumming from Three Trails Taiko and plenty of audience participation—including the opportunity for select festivalgoers to step up and test their skills against the wrestlers! \n\nABOUT THE PERFORMERS \nStanding 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) tall and weighing 331 pounds (150 kg) during his professional career\, Tatsuosho (Ryu Nakasone) has performed at numerous sumo events\, helping introduce audiences around the world to the excitement and rich cultural heritage of Japan’s oldest sporting tradition. \nThe Shōgeki Sumo Team\, from Houston\, is dedicated to promoting Japanese culture through sumo\, combining education and entertainment to give audiences a deeper understanding of the sport and challenge common Western stereotypes about sumo wrestlers. \nThree Trails Taiko is a Kansas City–based community ensemble dedicated to sharing the tradition\, culture\, and art of kumi-daiko (ensemble taiko drumming). The group performs throughout the Greater Kansas City area at festivals\, cultural events\, libraries\, community organizations\, and more. Through their performances\, members strive to grow as taiko players in mind\, body\, and spirit while sharing the excitement of Japanese taiko with the community. \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/sumo-performance/2026-10-03/1/
LOCATION:MTC: Yardley Hall
CATEGORIES:Performances,Sumo Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/TatsuoshoShogeki-event-hero.jpg
GEO:38.925129218653;-94.727653607154
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR