Australian Shakuhachi Festival 2026
3rd-6th Sept 2026
ASF26 is an intensive gathering for shakuhachi players of all levels – from absolute beginner to advanced. Across four days, you’ll take part in concerts, group workshops, and individual tuition with leading performers from Japan and Australia.
The festival will be held at Maroochy Waterfront Conference Centre on the Sunshine Coast , with accommodation and meals, practice spaces, and workshops.
Invited artists include Teruo Furuya, Kaoru Kakizakai, Kazushi Matama, Riley Lee, Carl Rathus, Bronwyn Kirkpatrick, and Lindsay Dugan.
Five public concerts will be held in association with the festival.
The ASF26 Shakuhachi Masters Concert Eumundi will take place at the Eumundi School of Arts, on Saturday September 5th. Entry is included with the festival package for participants.
2026 34th Iaido Championships and Seminar
4th-6th Sep 2026
The Australian Kendo Renmei and the Iaido board are pleased to advise that the 34th Australian Iaid? Seminar and Championships on the Sunshine Coast.
Iaido is a martial art centered on the precise and controlled movement of drawing a sword from its scabbard, striking an opponent, clearing the blade, and re-sheathing it. Practiced solo against imaginary enemies, it emphasizes mental discipline, precision, and situational awareness rather than direct combat
Once again, this year’s event will be led by the following visiting instructors:
Morishima Kazuki Sensei, Ky?shi 8 Dan
Takizawa Tomomi Sensei, Ky?shi 7 Dan
Casual observers are welcome to visit at no charge, HOWEVER they must remain off the training floor for safety reasons.
9am – Sun, 6 Sep, 4pm | Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct, Currimundi
Matsuri Brisbane
5th September 2026 | 
presented by Brisbane Seinendan
Matsuri Brisbane 2026 brings together traditional music, mouth-watering street food, exciting performances, and unforgettable cultural experiences – all live and in person.
It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with the community, make new friends, and immerse yourself in the beauty, energy, and spirit of Japan.
With an expected attendance of 30,000+ visitors, this exciting community event offers a full day of cultural performances, interactive activities, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences for all ages.
10am–5pm | Whites Hill State College, 138 Burn Street, Camp Hill | FREE
Japan Update 2026 – By Australia-Japan Research Centre
9th Sept 26 | in-person and live streamed on Vimeo
The Australia-Japan Research Centre and the ANU Japan Institute are holding the Japan Update 2026 on Wednesday 9th September from 9am to 4.45pm.
The Update brings together leading experts to explore critical developments shaping Japan’s future.
About the AJRC
Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with others interested in Japan’s evolving role in the region and the world. The Australia-Japan Research Centre (AJRC) is the centre of research, teaching and outreach on the Japanese economy in Australia. AJRC also conducts research to better understand the Australia-Japan relationship and their place in the Asia Pacific economy. Established in 1980 with support from the governments and business communities in both Australian and Japan, our research encompasses trade, finance, macroeconomics, as well as international economic relations.
9am to 4.45pm | ANU Research School of , ACT | + ONLINE
Cowra Sakura Matsuri 2026
26 September 2026
Sakura Matsuri is a major event on Cowra’s tourism calendar, celebrating the birth of spring. Locals, Australian and International visitors alike have the opportunity to experience traditional elements of Japanese culture.
Held at the picturesque Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, Sakura Matsuri showcases Japanese culture through a range of activities and demonstrations. With Bonsai workshops, Taiko drummers, sumo wrestlers, martial arts, Japanese archery and sword demonstrations, origami, comedy, dancers, choir, ikebana, tea ceremonies and more. Stall holders will have a range of Japanese food and goods on offer. It is a day for the whole family to enjoy.
Stall holders will have a range of food and goods on offer, and there will be activities for children.
Canberra Nara Candle Festival
24th Oct 2026
Enjoy the spectacular visual of 2000 shimmering candles at the 20th annual Canberra Nara Candle Festival to celebrate the Sister City relationship shared between Canberra and Nara, Japan.
Visitors will be mesmerised by the sounds of Japanese music and enchanting lighting that highlights the features of the beautiful Peace Park. The festival brings a wide variety of Japanese and Australian culture with arts and crafts such as calligraphy, lantern making, origami, ikebana and kite flying.
The festival features Japanese cuisine, markets and stalls with visitors able to take part in various activities.
4:00pm – 9:00pm | Canberra Nara Peace Park & Lennox Gardens