The Sugoi Japan Fest 2025 is poised to enchant visitors with the essence of Japanese culture at The Mall Lifestyle Bang Kapi from February 20 to 23, 2025. This exciting event, presented by The Mall Lifestyle, will provide attendees with the opportunity to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese traditions, delicious cuisine, and unique cultural experiences.
Visitors to the fest can expect the ceremonial raising of the Daruma doll, which has been prepared at the Daruma-ji Temple, the original temple of Daruma from Japan. The Daruma doll symbolizes luck and perseverance. According to Japanese custom, attendees will have the unique chance to participate by writing their wishes on these dolls, influencing their chances of fulfillment.
The event will transform the venue, M GRAND HALL on the ground floor, creating the atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals under the theme "Pray – Eat – Travel in Japan." This theme not only celebrates Japanese culinary delights but also emphasizes cultural exploration.
Among the must-see attractions is the captivating show where Master Kawai Takeharu will perform live eel slicing, showcasing the artistry involved in preparing this delicacy. This demonstration is sponsored by Unagi Toku, widely recognized for their expertise. Visitors will also be treated to the spectacle of live slicing of Hon Maguro (bigeye tuna) by Master Ariura Shu from Sojitz Tuna Farm Takashima, known for its high-quality tuna.
The event's Daruma display will feature large, golden Darumas standing over two meters tall. These have undergone the Kaigen ceremony—an opening of the eyes ritual—traditionally believed to imbue the doll with the power to grant wishes. Attendees can choose from four colors of Daruma: black for business success, pink for love, red for fortune, and green for health. Smaller dolls will also be available for purchase, enabling families to bring home good luck.
Food lovers will revel at the event, where original Japanese dishes will be on offer for the first time in Thailand. One standout option is Kaisendon, or seafood rice bowl, from Genkai Don, hailed as the best of Kyoto. This dish will include fresh seafood like tuna, salmon, and sea urchin, utilizing ingredients flown directly from Japan.
Also featured is ramen from Japanese Noodle Kotechiki, offering innovative combinations from two prominent ramen shops—Ramen Chicken Yaro and Menya Kotetsu—ensuring exclusive flavors available only during this festival.
For travel enthusiasts, the event will host booths showcasing tourism packages to Japan. Attendees can learn more about fascinating destinations such as Universal Studios Japan and the picturesque sites of Tottori and Beppu.
The cultural performances will highlight traditional Japanese arts, starting with the Yosakoi dance on February 20, followed by the energetic J-Pop idol performances featuring 11 different groups on February 22. The celebrated boy band PROXIE will also entertain fans on February 23 at 4 PM.
The Sugoi Japan Fest 2025 presents not just an event but a vibrant portal to Japan's rich cultural heritage and culinary excellence, inviting everyone to share and celebrate these traditions.