Crafting Life: Stories from the Japanese Studio
to September 27, 2025 | Japan Foundation, Sydney
Crafting Life: Stories from the Japanese Studio explores Japanese craft from a fresh perspective, highlighting its dynamism and resilience. Far from static, Japanese craft practices have always adapted to a network of variables, including access to materials, shifting patronage, intergenerational learning, and environmental challenges, including natural disasters. The ability of craft practitioners to innovate while valuing the tacit knowledge underpinning their traditions has ensured their continued relevance in contemporary Japan, and their esteem worldwide.
This exhibition showcases three craft practices from different regions of Japan, including a ceramic artist from Karatsu (Yukiko Tsuchiya), a maki-e lacquerware company originally from Wajima, now based in Kanazawa (Hikoju Maki-e Co. Ltd.), and a sashiko needlework collective turned ‘brand’ from ?tsuchi (?tsuchi Sashiko).
GALLERY HOURS – Mon–Fri: 10am–6pm | Sat: 11am–4pm
Bunbury Matsuri Day – South West Japan Festival
21st September 2026
The coastal city of Bunbury in Western Australia is celebrating 33 years of being a Sister City with Japan’s Setagaya City, and seven years of the South West Japan Festival.
This is the biggest day in the South West Japan Festival (SWJF) calendar – with food, art, workshops, dance, music, martial arts and fun for the whole family.
Celebrate all things Japan over a full day on the lush lawns of Bunbury’s Queens Garden. Parking is available at Water’s Edge and Bunbury Centrepoint.
Featuring three main stages full of performances, musicians, dances, martial arts and cosplay, stallholders, food trucks, information booths, and more!
Queens Gardens, Bunbury WA | Free
Matsuri Japan Byron Bay
18th Oct 2025
The Matsuri Japan Byron Bay 2025 will happen in Dening Park on October 18th, from 2 to 8 PM. It is a family-friendly, entry-free annual community event that introduces unique Japanese cultural experiences since 2017 Bring your picnic mat! Enjoy the beach breeze at an outdoor picnic dinner. YATAI Asian street foods will be served under the lantern, and live Japanese music and entertainment will be provided. Many stalls will sell Japanese goods, including kimonos.
This event has something for everyone, from the powerful beats of the taiko drums to the intricate craft workshops. Enjoy traditional performances, bon-dance, craft workshops, and kids’ games—all with a Japanese twist.
FREE | 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Dening Park ,Lawson Street Byron Bay
Japan Expo 2025
25th Oct 2025
Celebrating its 5th year edition and 45th anniversary of the sister cities of Sydney and Nagoya.
Japan Expo in Sydney is set to return on Saturday 25th October 2025, at The Sydney Town Hall, from 10 am to 4 pm.
JAPAN EXPO is a family-friendly event and will feature exhibitors and stall holders offering varieties of Japanese products at a discounted rate, authentic foods, latest tourism information, entertainments, cultural demonstrations and interactive workshops.
Sold-out, and with a record attendance over these years, this has successfully become the ultimate exhibition display, and a true representation of the very best of Japan in Australia.
Sydney Town Hall | 10am – 4pm AEDT