Event Calendar
2025/8/18
Cultural events related to Japan and its culture that fall into one of the following categories are listed for reference purposes:
・Projects organized or co-organized by the Embassy of Japan in Belgium, the Mission of Japan to EU;
・Projects supported by the Embassy of Japan in Belgium, the Mission of Japan to EU that have received patronage; *
・Projects implemented by Belgian public institutions; *
・Projects implemented by Japanese public institutions. *
For more information, please contact the organizers of each event directly.
* The Embassy of Japan accepts no responsibility for any problems or damages that may arise during these events.January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
| Date | Event Information | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/12 - 07/01 |  |
Kokeshi Art Unveiled
by Fakapapa This exhibition, co-organized with @Fakapapa, showcases the rich tradition and incredible diversity of Japanese kokeshi – handmade wooden sculptures with a legacy dating back to 1830. Featuring rare and unique dolls, the exhibition celebrates both classic forms and bold, creative interpretations that emerged during the 1960s renewal movement in Japan. Visitors will discover an exceptional selection of kokeshi, many of which are seldom seen outside Japan, capturing the artistry and history of this beloved craft. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| 10/01 |  |
Lecture by H.E. Mr. Masahiro MIKAMI We are kicking off the new year with a special event! Ambassador Mikami invites you to his lecture, ''A Personal Introduction to Japanese Culture and Language.'' Discover the rich history of Japanese culture, from classical traditions to modern (pop) culture. Don't miss this unique opportunity! (Lecture will be in English.) Doors open from 17:00 Lecture from 17:30 (networking opportunity after the lecture) Registration required: https://forms.office.com/r/d9DtXUx2P3 |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| 16/01 |  |
Hanasôkai - Let's speak Japanese Doors open at 14:45 / Starts at 15:00 *** Registration required *** From HERE ''Hanasôkai - Let's speak Japanese'' by BNK (Belgian Association of Japanese Language Teachers) collaborating with the Embassy of Japan. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| 16/01 |  |
Movie Screening - KAMOME DINER In Kamome Diner, a Japanese woman named Sachie opens a small diner in Helsinki, serving Japanese "soul foods" like onigiri with hopes of connecting with the local community. At first, her diner sees no customers, but she remains patient and optimistic. Eventually, a few unique characters—including a Japanese traveler named Midori and a Finnish man named Matti—visit and bring new energy to the place. Together, they create a warm, welcoming space, where each visitor finds comfort in the simplicity of good food and companionship. Registeration required: https://forms.office.com/r/JHuT9JVFr3 |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open from 17:00 Movie from 17:30 to 19:20 |
| 22/01 |  |
Origami workshop by Mr. Michael David (Lotus Rouge Atelier d'Art) We are excited to welcome Belgium’s only professional origami instructor, Michael David from Lotus Rouge Atelier d'Art, once again for a special origami workshop at the Embassy! As part of his inspiring Senbazuru Project (a thousand cranes), Michael will guide you through the art of folding paper into beautiful creations. Limited Seats: Only 30 spots available! Fully booked
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Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open at 13:30 From 14:00 to 16:00 |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/02 |  |
Japanese sake lecture
by Ambassador Monji Doors open at 16:30 / Time: 17:00 - 19:00 On the 4th of February 2025, Ambassador Monji (former Ambassador of Japan to Iraq, Qatar, UNSCO and Canada) will visit our JICC for a special event. Following the inscription of “traditional sake-making in Japan” as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Ambassador Monji will come and explain all about sake during a special lecture. Ambassador Monji, who has been actively pursuing “Japanese sake diplomacy” and has a title of Sake Samurai and Honorary President of Kura Master (Japanese sake competition) in France, is the perfect person to learn from regarding sake. Experience and learn about Japanese sake in an informal setting! We hope to see you there! |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open from 16:30 Time: 17:00 - 19:00 |
| 12/02 |  |
Kamome Diner
Doors open at 14:30 / Starts at 15:00 *** Registration required*** Subtitles are in English On the 12th of February, we are organizing a second screening of the movie ‘Kamome Diner (Kamome shokudo, かもめ食堂)’ at our JICC! In Kamome Diner, a Japanese woman named Sachie opens a small diner in Helsinki, serving Japanese "soul foods" like onigiri with hopes of connecting with the local community. At first, her diner sees no customers, but she remains patient and optimistic. Eventually, a few unique characters—including a Japanese traveler named Midori and a Finnish man named Matti—visit and bring new energy to the place. Together, they create a warm, welcoming space, where each visitor finds comfort in the simplicity of good food and companionship. We are looking forward to seeing you there! |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open from 14:30 Movie from 15:00 |
| 14/02 - 03/03 |  |
Hinamatsuri
The 3rd of March is "Hinamatsuri" - the Doll Festival to pray for girls' happiness and growth. The JICC has decorated hinaningyo (hina dolls) as our seasonal celebration. Come take a look during our opening hours!Display of Hina-ningyo and Kinpaku-placing We display hinaningyo till the 3rd of March. Would you like to create a beautiful golden card for your sweethearts for St. Valentine's Day (or later)? You can also enjoy kinpaku (gold leaf) placing on a postcard during this period. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles 10:00-12:00, 13:30-16:00 We are closed on the 24th, the 27th of February, and the weekends. |
| 21/02 14:30-16:30 |
Kukai Haiku Exchange The Mission of Japan is hosting a #Kukai event for the first time ever!🥳Join us for this one of a kind #haiku exchange where poems are brought to life by a group of esteemed poets & practitioners! 🗓️21 Feb, 14:30-16:30 📍JICC, #Brussels 🔗By Registration https://forms.office.com/r/pJUkt2JXHP Organized by the Mission of Japan to EU. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06/03 15:00-17:00 |
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Hanasôkai - Let's speak Japanese Doors open at 14:45 / Starts at 15:00 *** Registration required *** From HERE ''Hanasôkai - Let's speak Japanese'' by BNK (Belgian Association of Japanese Language Teachers) collaborating with the Embassy of Japan. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| 09/03 13:15-13:45 |
 |
Made in Asia - Kitsuke (Kimono Dressing) Demonstration Kitsuke (dressing process of Kimono) will be demonstrated at Otaku Stage! We will invite Miss International Belgium 2024 Ms. Luka De Proost and Miss Exclusive 2024 Ms. Maxine Van Wellegem as Kimono model on stage. |
Otaku Stage Brussels Expo Place de Belgique 1 1020 Bruxelles |
| 09/03 13:45-14:45 |
 |
Made in Asia - Talk Show by Miss International Belgium 2024 and Miss Exclusive 2024 A talk show by Miss International Belgium 2024 Ms. Luka De Proost and Miss Exclusive 2024 Ms. Maxine Van Wellegem. Luka is currently appointed as Miss Visit Japan Tourism Ambassador, and will share her story and immersive experiences in Japan! |
Otaku Stage Brussels Expo Place de Belgique 1 1020 Bruxelles |
| 09/03 14:45-15:15 |
 |
Made in Asia - Kimono Fashion Show Additional to Miss International Belgium and Miss Exclusive 2024, we will also have volunteers to wear various kinds of Kimono. You will not only get to see different kind of colorful Kimono, you also get to learn the background and culture of what kind of occasion we wear each Kimono. (example: "Shichi-Go-San" wishing health for children who are 7 and 3 years old for girls and 5 years old for boys) |
Otaku Stage Brussels Expo Place de Belgique 1 1020 Bruxelles |
| 10-21/03 |  |
KOZABURO TAKEISHI in BELGIUM (1902-1909) Through the Eyes of a Japanese Sculptor Setting off to distant Europe in search of new hope and learning, Kozaburo Takeishi embarked on a journey that was more than just studying abroad. It was an adventure of encountering foreign cultures and exploring his own identity. In Belgium, where the European art converged, what did he discover and how was he inspired? His footsteps can be traced through the materials he left behind. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Opening event on 10 March 2025 From 17:30 to 19:00 Doors open at 17:00 NB: Embassy is closed on Thursday 20 March 2025 |
| 27/03 |  |
Movie screening 'Mori, l'habitat de l'artiste' and 'Mochi' Join us for a special screening of ‘Mori, l’habitat de l’artiste’ and ‘Mochi’, two heart-warming films celebrating art, tradition, and the passage of time. 🎨 Mori follows the daily life of a reclusive painter and his wife as they fight top reserve their beloved garden. 🍡 Mochi tells the story of a young girl discovering the importance of tradition and memory through the simple act of making mochi. We are looking forward to seeing you there! 📅 Date: Thursday, 27th March, 2025 ⏰ From 14:00 to 17:00 📍 Location : Japan Information and Cultural Centre - Rue van Maerlant 1, 1040 Brussels 📝 Registration required 🇫🇷 Subtitles in French |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Registration from HERE |
| 31/03 |  |
Concert by Nishinomiya Boys and Girls Chorus as a bridge of friendship between Japan and Belgium A bridge of songs between Japan and Belgium. Nishinomiya Boys and Girls Choir, one of the best in Japan, will concert Japan and Belgium with their beautiful voices. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open at 16:00 From 16:30 to 18:00 Fully booked |
| 13/03-12/04 |  |
Exposition Bruxelles - Tokyo 160 works (hanging scrolls, calligraphy, ink and wash paintings, Japanese and Western-style paintings, crafts, photography, etc.) and literary works (haiku, tanka, etc.) by painters living in Japan, 23 works by Brussels painters and 7 haiku will be exhibited in the CAVE in the Halles Saint-Géry. In addition, a special section will be dedicated to ‘Art Deco in Belgium and Japan’, written by art historian Koji Mori, President of Japan Europe Palace Art Association (JEPAA), in reference to Halles Saint-Géry's 2025 theme ‘Art Deco’. This is an exhibition supported by the Embassy of Japan in Belgium. |
Halles Saint-Géry, Cave Pl. Saint-Géry 1, 1000 Bruxelles https://jepaa.org/ |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02/04 |  |
Movie Screening - JUNGLE EMPEROR LEO
TEZUKA Osamu's monumental masterpiece that became the cornerstone of Japanese anime. The theatrical version of the anime Jungle Emperor Leo created by TEZUKA Osamu, an important pioneer of Japanese manga. Depicting the growth of Leo, a white lion who protects the animals in an African jungle, the series paved the way for an anime boom in Japan.
In 1950, Jungle Emperor Leo began as Tezuka’s first long-form manga project as a serial in a magazine. It later became an animated TV series, captivating the entire nation and laying the foundation for Japanese manga culture. This feature animation adaptation was groundbreaking for its dynamic depictions of animals, vibrant color schemes, humor, poetic elements, and an overflowing musical score. It has been an enduring masterpiece that not only delivers a universal message of peace but also has continued to exert a profound influence on future artists. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open from 14:30 Movie from 15:00 to 16:20 (75min) Register HERE |
| 14/04 |  |
< Japanese traditional dance > |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| 23/04 |  |
Japanese public schools provide lunch, and it is normal for teachers and students to eat together in the classroom. School meals are unique elements of Japanese culture and education. Popular menu items include “Napolitan” spaghetti flavored with ketchup and “koppe” bread. Amarida (ICHIHARA Hayato) is a middle school teacher who lives for these school meals. He is secretly competing with his student Kamino (SATO Taishi) who has been experimenting every day on the best way to make their lunches taste even better. One day, they are threatened by a decline in the flavor of school lunches when a new revamp that prioritizes healthiness is suggested. Amarida rises to the challenge of protecting the flavor of school meals!
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Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open from 14:30 Movie from 15:00 to 16:50 (104min) Register HERE |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8/05 15:00-17:00 |
 |
Hanasôkai - Let's speak Japanese
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Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13/06 |  |
A Handful of Salt
Doors open at 18:00 / Starts at 18:30 *** Registration required*** Subtitles are in French The city of Suzu in Ishikawa Prefecture was severely damaged by the Noto Peninsula earthquake of 2024. The Agehama salt produced in this area uses traditional techniques of gathering seawater, scattering them on a cleared beach, sun-drying them in the open air, and then boiling them in a flat pot for a full day and night. The passion of the craftspeople who devote themselves to salt production and their way of life in harmony with nature makes us wonder about the beginnings of human activity. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Register HERE |
| 15/06 |
 |
Rakugo performance On June 15th, we are collaborating with De Nieuwe Zaal to create a unique performance. Cyril Coppini, a Frenchman from Nice who now lives in Japan, will tell stories in the Rakugo style. Rakugo is traditional Japanese comedy, a type of stand-up comedy from the Edo period. This is a unique opportunity to experience a part of Japanese culture that rarely makes its way to the West due to the language barrier.
Practical Information This performance will be conducted in English Time: 13h - 14h (doors open from 12h) The performance will take place at De Nieuwe Zaal (Scheepvaartkaai 16 Hasselt) Price: The standard entrance fees of the Japanese Garden apply. Organized by the Japanese Garden in Hasselt. |
Japanese Garden
Gouverneur Verwilghensingel 15, 3500 Hasselt |
| 20/06 |  |
From One Picture Concert
Japan as told by a single photograph. Its beauty is presented in sound. Musicians: Eric Robberecht (violin) Miki Isako (viola) Shiho Nishimura (cello) Adèle Legrand (flute) Lou Nickels (percussion) Selma Barouini (chant) |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Fully booked |
| 24/06 |  |
The Genealogy of Sake Doors open at 18:00 / Starts at 18:30 *** Registration required*** Subtitles are in English The film unravels the history of sake brewing in Noto —an area that was hit severely by a recent earthquake. It examines the intense work of the life of four masters in sake brewing called "The Four Sake Kings of Noto," including a 80-year-old returning veteran Toji (a sake craftsperson), as well as their disciples, such as the first female Toji to join the Noto Toji Union, and a young Toji with a new working style. The story reveals the depths of sake making today and the difficulties of passing down the artistry through generations.
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Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Register from HERE |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6/07 |
 |
Wish Festival: Tanabata Tanabata, also known as the Wishing Festival, is a captivating celebration that originated in Japan and traditionally marks the beginning of summer. On July 6, the Japanese Garden will host this colorful festival, inviting visitors to celebrate the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi. The story is about two lovers separated by the Milky Way, who are only able to meet once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month. During Tanabata, visitors hang wishes and decorations on bamboo branches, hoping they will be fulfilled. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy traditional music and, of course, the serene beauty of the garden itself. Don't miss this chance to experience the magic of Tanabata in the Japanese Garden! Organized by the Japanese Garden in Hasselt. |
Japanese Garden
Gouverneur Verwilghensingel 15, 3500 Hasselt |
| 6/07 |
 |
SUMMER FESTIVAL JAPAN The Summer Festival Japan takes place just before the Star Festival (''Tanabata'') of Japan, at the city centre of Brussels. This festival includes: Japanese food & drink stands Japanese cultural exhibitions & performances Japanese Star Festival atmosphere Organised by Mission of Japan to the European Union and NIHONJINKAI (Association Japonaise en Belgique) With the support of City of Brussels and the Embassy of Japan in Belgium |
PLACE DE LA BOURSE,
1000 BRUXELLES 12:00-19:00 Free Entry |
| 12/07 - 17/08 |
 |
Sleepwalker’s Garden Sleepwalker’s Garden is the first solo exhibition in Belgium by the Japanese-French artist Makiko Furuichi (°1987, Kanazawa). In collaboration with curator Benedict Vandaele, Furuichi is transforming a former shop on the Kouterdreef into a dynamic art space. Sleepwalker’s Garden brings together both new and existing works, in a variety of media including paintings, watercolours, sculptures, and textiles. The exhibition serves as a poetic gateway into Furuichi’s universe — an imaginary space populated by lush plants, mysterious animals, and hybrid figures. Her dreamlike world is inspired by Japanese culture, including mythology, manga, and film. As a result, her work is inextricably linked to themes such as ecology, animism, identity, and the relationship between the Eastern and Western worlds. The exhibition is free to visit. Supported by the city of Gent. |
Kouterdreef 8
9000 Ghent |
| 26/07 - 9/08 |
 |
Visual Poetry from Ishikawa Exhibition in Collaboration with IBASHO from July 26 to August 9 IBASHO means “a place where you can be yourself” in Japanese. IBASHO is a gallery in Antwerp that opened its doors in March 2015, showcasing Japanese photography. Their collection ranges from works by renowned Japanese photographers to younger, contemporary Japanese artists, as well as works by Western photographers inspired by Japan. IBASHO aims to present the versatility and beauty of Japanese photography in all its forms, from raw and unpolished to minimalist and serene. IBASHO presents the exhibition "Visual Poetry from Ishikawa" in the Japanese Garden, featuring works by Japanese photographers Mika Horie and Yumiko Izu. Mika Horie creates cyanotypes on handmade paper in her Meiji-era farmhouse in Yamanaka Onsen. Inspired by nature, her work embodies wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection and transience. She blends traditional paper-making techniques with photography and Nihonga painting methods. Her latest book, "Air, Flowers and Colours," explores her deep connection to Japanese traditions and nature. Yumiko Izu presents works from her series "Utsuroi," which represents the impermanence of life. Using large-format photography and camera-less photogram techniques, she captures the delicate beauty of flowers and nature. Her images reflect the cycles of life and the inner peace she discovered during the pandemic. The exhibition is included in the entrance ticket, so there is no need to purchase an extra ticket. Organized by the Japanese Garden in Hasselt. |
Japanese Garden
Gouverneur Verwilghensingel 15, 3500 Hasselt |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8/08 - 9/08 |
 |
Obon Nocturne Obon Matsuri, also known as the Obon Festival, is one of the most meaningful and vibrant festivals in Japanese culture. On August 8 and 9, the Japanese Garden brings this heartwarming festival to life during an evening opening, where we come together to honor the spirits of our ancestors and reunite with loved ones. The festival is based on the belief that during this time, the spirits of ancestors return to the world of the living to be welcomed by their families. The festival is characterized by colorful lanterns, traditional dances such as Bon Odori, and delicious dishes shared with friends and family. Would you like to attend the Obon Nocturne? Make sure to buy your ticket online in advance – that way, you’re guaranteed a spot. Tickets at the entrance are limited. Note: During Obon Nocturne, the Japanese Garden will be closed during the day. Doors open from 17:00 on both days. Organized by the Japanese Garden in Hasselt. |
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| 17/08 |
 |
Pavi'On Summer - Japanese culture On Sunday, August 17, the Embassy of Japan will host two cultural events as part of Pavi’On Summer, a City of Brussels initiative promoting the new community center at Cinquantenaire. The afternoon will feature a workshop led by Michael David, Belgium’s only professional origami instructor from Lotus Rouge Atelier d’Art, accompanied by live music performed on the shinobue (Japanese flute) by Ms. Nozomi Kanda. Following the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to experience the traditional Kanazawa art of gold-leaf postcard making. Informational brochures and magazines will also be available for attendees interested in learning more about Japanese culture. |
Parc du Cinquantenaire / Jubelpark 15, 1000 Brussels
Time: 14:00 – 18:00 This event is free – no registration required |
| 21/08 |
 |
Kabuki & Shamisen by Senju Einojo
On Thursday, August 21, the Japan Information and Cultural Centre will host a special cultural evening featuring Mr. Einojo Senju, a kabuki and shamisen performer from Japan currently touring Europe. The event will include live kabuki performances as well as a shamisen workshop, offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese performing arts up close. |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan
Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Register from HERE Fully booked |
| 22/08 |
 |
Pavi'On Summer - Kabuki & Shamisen On Friday, August 22, the Embassy of Japan will present two cultural events as part of Pavi’On Summer, an initiative by the City of Brussels to promote the new community center at Cinquantenaire. The evening will feature a live demonstration by Mr. Einojo Senju, a talented kabuki and shamisen performer from Japan. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the traditional art of kabuki, including its distinctive costumes, makeup, and expressive movement. |
Parc du Cinquantenaire / Jubelpark 15, 1000 Brussels
Time: 20:00 – 21:00 This event is free – no registration required |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4/09 - 25/10 |  |
Sei Arimori, Solo Exhibition “Shizen” Sei Arimori's vision of painting is a space for expression,
free from the trends of contemporary art. ''In symbiosis with majestic nature, wherever we are, attentive artists and sensitive sensors, the work expresses itself beyond us by transposing intimate emotions onto a medium.'' One of his concerns is to make the most of the teachings of humanity's heritages, from East to West. The foundation and meaning of his work are the permutation of light and darkness in which he is challenged by the passage of time. Sei Arimori believes that ''time is not an ordered sequence. It is relative to each individual. Sunrise and sunset, hope and sadness, light and darkness: this is the real substance of our lives.'' Supported by the Embassy of Japan in Belgium. |
Frédérick Mouraux Gallery
690 chaussée de Waterloo BE 1180, Brussels This event is free – no registration required |
| 6/09 - 7/09 |  |
Manga and Cosplay Festival On September 6 and 7, it's time for the Manga and Cosplay Festival at the Japanese Garden again! Prepare to immerse yourself in the world of your favorite superheroes, manga and anime characters, and video game icons. During this festival, the magic of these characters comes to life in the beautiful setting of the Japanese Garden. Whether you're a beginner cosplayer or a seasoned veteran, everyone is warmly invited to join in the festivities. And the best part? Just like throughout the entire season, entrance to the Garden is free for visitors who come in cosplay. So, put on your best costume and join us for an unforgettable weekend full of fun and fantasy! During Manga & Cosplay, free water is available to all visitors. Don't forget to bring your own water bottle to easily refill! Organized by the Japanese Garden in Hasselt. |
Japanese Garden
Gouverneur Verwilghensingel 15, 3500 Hasselt Buy tickets here: September 6, September 7 |
| 10/09 |  |
Movie Screening at JICC
‘Mottainai Kitchen (もったいないキッチン)’ Subtitles in French
A documentary showcasing respect for food and the fight against food waste! Don't waste it, cook it! A culinary road movie, tackling the issue of food waste in Japan, searching for sustainable solutions. The film follows filmmaker and food activist David Gross from Austria as he discovers the fascinating Japanese concept of "Mottainai". Gross travels across Japan driving a mobile kitchen and only cooks with ingredients that others call waste. On his journey, he meets local chefs, farmers, and activists who transform ingredients such as vegetable scraps, wild plants and insects into tasty and sustainable dishes, inspiring him to create recipes for a "Zero Waste Kitchen Revolution". |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles Doors open from 16:30 | Movie from 16:45 to 17:20 (35min) Register from HERE |
| 10 - 23/09 |  |
Origami workshop & exhibition The Embassy of Japan will host an exhibition dedicated to Mr. Michael David of Lotus Rouge Atelier d’Art, highlighting his long-term senbazuru (thousand cranes) project. From September 11 to 23, visitors can view a collection of origami cranes for peace, created by Mr. David in collaboration with participants from across Belgium, prior to their delivery to Hiroshima. The exhibition features photographs, map, and origami pieces that illustrate the project's development and message. An origami workshop led by Mr. David will be held on September 10. You will have to register for the workshop beforehand. Fully booked |
Japan Information and Cultural Centre of the Embassy of Japan
Rue Van Maerlant 1 1040 Bruxelles For the exhibition, reservation is not required. The Centre is open from 10:00 to 12:00 + from 13:30 to 16:00. *Please note that we are closed on Monday 15 September. |
| Date | Category | Title | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18/10 - 26/10 |
 |
Chrysanthemum Festival Each year, the Japanese Garden ends its season with a stunning highlight: the Chrysanthemum Festival, also known as Kikumatsuri. This year promises to be extra special, as the event is dedicated entirely to our devoted volunteers. Together, they have transformed the garden into a true spectacle of color and art. The chrysanthemum has a rich history in Japan. Introduced from China in the 6th century, the flower quickly became popular due to its medicinal properties and its association with longevity and rejuvenation. The Imperial Family was so inspired by the chrysanthemum that it became the imperial symbol—an honor that continues to this day. Additionally, the chrysanthemum symbolizes autumn and the rice harvest, with the first Chrysanthemum Festival dating back to the year 910. This year, the focus is on creativity and collaboration. A dedicated group of volunteers has carefully and passionately transformed the Japanese Garden into a magical place where you can admire the beauty and symbolism of this remarkable flower. Note: Closed on Monday (October 20). Organized by the Japanese Garden in Hasselt. |
Japanese Garden
Gouverneur Verwilghensingel 15, 3500 Hasselt |
| 4-14/11 |
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Towards the 160th anniversary of friendship between Japan and Belgium ''Exhibition Bringing Together Japanese and Belgian Artists'' To love freedom and peace, and to promote culture by engaging in friendly activi-ties through the arts. AVIS CAERULEA members:
Hitoshi Hatano Peter Bosteels
Machiko Isse Jumpei Mikami Staf Daems Shohei Uchida Christiane Piccard Makiko Kakiuchi Omar van Meervelde Mitsue Idehara |
JICC, Embassy of Japan in Belgium Rue Van Maerlant 1, 1040 Brussels Opening event on 31 October 18:30-20:00 with concert by Aya Kitaoka (violin) and Mitsuhisa Tsuchiya (piano) Register from HERE |