JapanFest 2025
Press Release

Atlanta, GA – Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Japan at JapanFest Atlanta 2025, taking place September 20–21 at the Gas South Convention Center in Duluth. This year’s theme, “Taste of Japan,” promises an unforgettable cultural experience—featuring a vibrant celebration of Atlanta’s 20-year sister city relationship with Fukuoka, Japan.

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With over 20,000 attendees annually, JapanFest Atlanta is one of the largest Japanese cultural festivals in the Southeast. The 2025 celebration will showcase traditional and modern Japanese culture through 
music, dance, martial arts, hands-on workshops, and—of course—mouthwatering cuisine.

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20th Anniversary Highlights

• Hakata koma – An exhilarating performance passed down for over 480 years, utilizing traditional Hakata spinning tops. Designated as the first Intangible Cultural Property of Fukuoka Prefecture, this rare and culturally significant art form is led by Chikushi Shuraku the 3rd, the 20th generation of Chikuzen Hakata Koma. 

• Katsura Sunshine – A master of rakugo, the centuries-old Japanese art of comedic storytelling. As one of the only non-Japanese rakugo masters in the world, his performance promises global laughs with local charm. 

• Matsuriza Taiko - A world-renowned Japanese drumming troupe blending traditional taiko rhythms with dynamic choreography and powerful stage presence. Known for their regular performances at EPCOT's Japan Pavilion at Walt Disney World, the group brings the spirit and energy of Japanese festival drumming—matsuri—to audiences of all ages.  

• Many More to be Announced

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Taste Japan

Don’t miss the Japanese Food Court & Beer Garden, featuring local Japanese restaurants serving ramen, 
sushi, yakisoba, bento boxes, and sweet treats like shaved ice. Grab a cold Japanese beer and enjoy your 
meal while taking in live performances. 

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Cultural Experiences - explore Japanese culture through:

• Kimono fitting and photo ops

• Bonsai and Ikebana flower arranging

• Origami, calligraphy, and tea ceremony

• Traditional music workshops and samurai demos

• Hakata doll painting and hands-on craft stations

Kids can enjoy the Children’s Area, complete with Japanese games and crafts, and even participate in the O-Mikoshi Parade, carrying a traditional portable shrine.

Shop, Learn, and Play
Browse over 100 vendor booths featuring Japanese fashion, crafts, anime merchandise, toys, and technology. Visit Ginza Dori, our festival street inspired by Tokyo’s famous shopping district, and discover interactive displays from Japanese companies based in Georgia.

Ticket Information (Additional service & facility fees apply)

• Advanced Tickets: $16 (available through Sept. 19)

• At the Door: $20

• Family & Friends Packs: 4 for $70 / 5 for $90 (at the door only)

• Children 6 and under: FREE

• Military & Seniors: $16 (at the door only)

• Group Discounts & Sponsorships Available

Get tickets: www.japanfest.org/tickets
Volunteer with us: www.japanfest.org/volunteer

Event Details
September 20, 2025 (Sat): 10am–6pm
September 21, 2025 (Sun): 10am–5pm

Gas South Convention Center – 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097
Organized by JapanFest, Inc., Japan-America Society of Georgia and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, and supported by the Consulate-General of Japan in Atlanta, JapanFest fosters cross-cultural friendship and understanding between Japan and the Southeastern United States.

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All information and attractions are subject to change.

Media Contact & General Info 
Phone: (404) 522-6938 
Email: admin@japanfest.org 
Website: www.japanfest.org  

Join us for a cultural journey you won’t forget. Come for the food, stay for the fun—experience Japan in the heart of Georgia!​​