Nihon Matsuri 2026 celebrates Japanese culture in Luque

The ninth edition of the Nihon Matsuri festival took place at the Paraguayan Olympic Committee in Luque, drawing thousands of visitors despite adverse weather conditions. The event was organized by the Japanese Association of Asunción (AJA) and the Organizing Commission for the 90 Years of Japanese Immigration to Paraguay, with support from the Embassy of Japan and the National Secretariat of Tourism (Senatur).

The festival commemorated 90 years of Japanese immigration to Paraguay, blending traditional and contemporary cultural expressions. A major highlight was the Paraguayan debut of the Japanese musical trio Hanafugetsu, featuring Yuko Suzuhana, Daisuke Kaminaga, and Kiyoshi Ibukuro, who performed using traditional instruments such as the shakuhachi and koto. Other performances included koto player Yoshiaki Okawa, Japan Bunka Taiko drums, and Kosei Yosakoi Paraguay.

Gastronomy played a central role, with over 80 stands offering traditional dishes including ramen, yakisoba, sushi, takoyaki, and gyoza, alongside Japanese clothing, games, and various products.