JAPANESE CURRY FESTIVAL 2025 to Hit Shibuya and Sendai
The vibrant and ever-evolving world of Japanese curry is set to take center stage as the "JAPANESE CURRY FESTIVAL 2025" rolls into Shibuya and Sendai. Run by Pocket Curry Co. and curated by Hiroaki Matsu (known as Curry Cell), this festival invites curry lovers to embark on a flavorful journey through Japan’s diverse curry scene.
Dates and Venues
- - Shibuya: July 24 (Thursday) - August 31 (Sunday) 2025
- Location: Shibuya Area, Tokyo, Japan
- - Sendai: August 1 (Friday) - August 14 (Thursday) 2025
- Location: Sendai Mitsukoshi, 7th Floor Hall, Sendai, Miyagi
The Theme: "Curry is Diversity"
This year marks the 5th iteration of the festival, emphasizing the richness of Japanese curry through the theme "Curry is Diversity." Each day will feature special events, including pop-up stalls from renowned curry restaurants, live music performances, and a unique stamp rally that encourages participants to explore the local curry offerings in Shibuya.
As the festival atmosphere takes over the bustling streets of Shibuya, participating establishments will showcase limited-time curry dishes that encapsulate the essence of Japanese home curry cooking, emphasizing the theme of diversity.
Special Opening Days Events
July 24 & 25: The event kicks off with the OPENING DAYS titled "The World of Home Curry," presented by House Foods. This free-to-enter celebration focuses on the diversity of Japanese home curry, with exciting talks and live performances scheduled.
Guest Appearances Include:
- - Yuhi Komiyama: Musician and Shibuya Tourist Ambassador, known for his culinary book on curry.
- - Keiichi Sokabe: Vocalist from Sunny Day Service, engaging in a talk and mini-concert.
Ghosts in the Kitchen
On July 25, festival-goers can also meet Yuko Naito, NHK news anchor turned curry enthusiast, and Hiroki Higashiyama of Really Delicious Inc., a dedicated chef passionate about culinary experiences.
MC: The unique artist Kari Paku Paku, known for their age-less and gender-less music inspired by curry and spices, will keep the audience entertained throughout the two days.
Elevating the Curry Experience
Throughout the festival, various pop-up events will take place:
- - Curry Bread Day at Seibu Shibuya (July 25-27) showcases the beloved Japanese curry bread from popular eateries.
- - Free Live Performances will occur on July 27, joining local emerging artists with a curated selection of next-gen curry offerings.
- - A celebratory "Curry Night" on July 29 reveals the culinary delights of Fukujinzuke (Japanese pickles served with curry) in collaboration with local favorites like Wacca.
Sendai Segment
The festival extends its reach to Sendai, highlighting the lesser-known yet equally compelling curry culture of Tohoku from August 1 to August 14.
Twenty ramen establishments will set up shop, offering special dishes that tie locally grown ingredients with innovative curry interpretations.
Closing Days
As the festival winds down, participants can look forward to thematic discussions centered around the future of curry culture, engaging visitors to imagine what culinary innovations lie ahead.
Conclusion
The JAPANESE CURRY FESTIVAL 2025 is a can't-miss event for curry lovers, bringing together rich flavors and cultural heritage from across Japan. If you are passionate about food, culture, and community, mark your calendars for this spectacular celebration in both Shibuya and Sendai!
For More Information
For detailed program schedules, guest lists, and ticket info, visit the official festival website
here. Follow us on social media to stay updated on all the exciting events leading up to this year’s festival!