Calling all Japanese food lovers, anime enthusiasts and J-pop fans! If you’ve always dreamed of exploring the lively streets of Osaka but haven’t had the chance to visit Japan, here’s something exciting to look forward to.
One of Malaysia’s anticipated Japanese cultural festivals, Nihon Matsuri 2026, is making its return from 22 to 25 October 2026 at XOX Arena, The Arch Galeries Kuala Lumpur.
This year’s festival promises an exciting celebration of Japanese cuisine, music, culture and entertainment, with a brand-new concept inspired by Osaka’s famous Dotonbori district.
Known for its colourful neon lights, bustling food streets and vibrant nightlife, Dotonbori’s energetic atmosphere will be brought to life in Kuala Lumpur, giving Malaysians a taste of Japan without leaving the country.
Supported by the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO), the four-day festival will feature unique culinary experiences, live performances, exciting competitions and even a Malaysia Book of Records attempt.
Malaysia’s First Standing Omakase Experience
One of the biggest highlights of Nihon Matsuri 2026 is the debut of what organisers describe as Malaysia’s first Standing Omakase.
Unlike the traditional seated omakase dining experience, this unique concept allows visitors to enjoy a specially curated five-course Japanese meal in a lively festival environment.
The experience will feature premium seafood flown directly from Japan, with dishes carefully prepared to showcase the skills and precision of Japanese culinary craftsmanship.
For those unfamiliar with omakase, the Japanese dining concept typically involves leaving the selection of dishes in the hands of the chef, allowing diners to enjoy a personalised culinary experience.
Sushi Competition, Giant Oyster Bar & Live Tuna Cutting
Beyond the omakase experience, visitors can also look forward to the inaugural POP Wasabi Awards 2026, presented by Sendo Ichi Seafoods.
The sushi-making competition will bring together six talented chefs representing selected Japanese restaurants, competing to showcase their creativity, technical skills and mastery of premium ingredients.
The judging panel includes renowned sushi master Sam Saito of Sushi Hibiki, Malaysian celebrity chef Chef Wan, and Palate Asia Editor-in-Chief Andrea Wong.
Contestants will be evaluated on their sushi-making techniques, precision, presentation, creativity and overall execution.
Meanwhile, Nihon Matsuri 2026 will also attempt to enter the Malaysia Book of Records by creating the Longest Oyster Bar, featuring a spectacular display of fresh oysters.
Another must-see attraction is the live tuna-cutting demonstration, where master chefs will showcase the traditional Japanese technique of preparing an entire tuna.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to purchase freshly cut tuna during the event.
J-Rock Fans, Get Ready! I Don’t Like Mondays., Tomonari Sora & KLP48 Are Coming
Of course, what’s a Japanese festival without incredible music?
Nihon Matsuri 2026 is bringing an exciting lineup of Japanese and Malaysian performers to the stage throughout the festival.
Japanese rock band I Don’t Like Mondays., known for their energetic performances and songs such as “LEMONADE”, will perform on Friday, 23 October, at 8 PM in Hall B.
The best part? Their performance is included with the regular Nihon Matsuri admission ticket, meaning fans won’t need to purchase a separate concert ticket.
On Saturday, 24 October, the festival’s dedicated concert programme, Nihon Live, will feature Japanese singer-songwriter Tomonari Sora alongside Malaysian idol group KLP48.
Tomonari Sora is known for viral hits such as “Oni no Utage”, which has surpassed 160 million streams, and “Niramekko”. He also performed “Houkou”, the ending theme for the sixth season of the anime Kingdom.
Meanwhile, KLP48, Malaysia’s first AKB48 sister group, will bring their energetic performances and Japanese idol culture to the stage.
The concert begins at 7.30 PM in Hall A, with tickets priced at RM149, inclusive of festival entry.
The entertainment continues on Sunday, 25 October, with Malaysian singer and cosplayer AME (Amelia Khor), who will perform with her band and participate in a special Meet & Greet session.
Her appearance begins at 7 PM in Hall B and is included with regular festival admission.
When and Where Is Nihon Matsuri 2026?
- Nihon Matsuri 2026
- 22–25 October 2026
- XOX Arena, The Arch Galeries, Kuala Lumpur
- RM25 regular entry / RM149 Nihon Live concert
Here’s a quick look at the major performances scheduled throughout the festival:
| Date | Performance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 23 October (Friday) | I Don’t Like Mondays. | 8 PM |
| 24 October (Saturday) | Tomonari Sora & KLP48 | 7.30 PM |
| 25 October (Sunday) | AME (Amelia Khor) | 7 PM |
Since its introduction in 2022, Nihon Matsuri has continued to celebrate Japanese food, lifestyle and entertainment while strengthening cultural connections between Malaysia and Japan.
With its Osaka-inspired concept, exciting culinary attractions and star-studded entertainment lineup, this year’s festival promises something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, music lover or simply curious about Japanese culture.
So, if you’re looking for something different to do in Kuala Lumpur this October, Nihon Matsuri 2026 might just be worth adding to your calendar!
For more information and ticket purchases, visit Excitix or follow Nihon Matsuri’s official social media channels.