Japanese Activities
Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival gives families an opportunity to enjoy a range of traditional Japanese activities in Adelaide.
Kimono Dressing
Have you always wondered what you’d look like in a traditional kimono/yukata? For only $5 (under 13) or $10 you can experience this.
Kimono Dressing Session is an opportunity for our audience to try the summer style Japanese Kimono which is also known as Yukata. Each session is approximately 20 minutes long including time for dressing/undressing and taking photos (with own camera).
Location: Main Hall
AnimeGO! Exhibition
AnimeGO! Japan Pop Culture Festival is the sister event to Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival, organised and hosted annually by JAFA.
The AnimeGO! 4-Koma Manga Competition and Short Anime Film Competition are held throughout the year, with entries received from across Australia. View previous years’ entries, and learn how you can get involved in this year’s competition.
Location: Outside Centre
Origami
Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding. Learn how to make a simple origami piece, and take home your new creation!
Our origami activity is suitable for all ages. If you simply can’t get enough of origami or want to challenge yourself, JAFA runs regular origami classes in Adelaide.
Location: Main Hall
Caligraphy
Ever wanted to have your name written in Japanese calligraphy? Watch in awe as our instructors write your first name in traditional Japanese calligraphy.
Our volunteer instructors will assist you in completing a calligraphy piece. The JAFA also runs runs regular calligraphy classes in Adelaide.
Location: Main Hall
The koinobori or carp streamer is the symbol of Kodomo no Hi in Japan. Families fly koinobori outside their homes – one for each child – with the carp representing strength and determination. Get involved in the celebration of Children’s Day by colouring in your very own koinobori to take home.
Location: Main Hall
A Stamp Rally is a popular activity in Japan where you can visit different locations and collect a unique stamp to fill up your card. Pick up a Stamp Rally sheet at Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival, collect all the stamps and visit the JAFA Info Desk to redeem your prize!*
*Limited prizes available, only while stocks last.
Ikebana
Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging. The Ikebana International Adelaide Chapter will be showcasing their intricate work, which includes beautiful arrangements that reflect this ancient art. Stay a while and listen to a short presentation about Ikebana.
Location: Community Centre
Dream Sweet Maid Cafe
Treat yourself at the ❀ Dream Sweet Maid Cafe ❀ where our friendly maids are always happy to take your order.
*While all of the activities at the Maid Café are free, food and drinks will need to be paid separately.
Karuta
Karuta is a popular Japanese card game. We’ve adapted this game especially for children, with colourful giant cards to test knowledge and speed. Will you be the first to pick the right card?
Location: Oval
Train Simulation
Have you ever wanted to experience what it’s like to drive a Japanese train? In our dedicated Train Simulation room, you can take control of a Japanese train plus learn more about the popular shinkansen.
Location: Community Centre
1000 Crane Project
You may have heard the story of 1000 Cranes, where a wish is promised to anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes. Some legends state that one will receive eternal happiness and luck, or recovery from injuries or illness.
At Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival, you can take part in our very own 1000 Crane Project. Fold your own origami crane, which will be added to our display and sent to the Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima, Japan.
Location: Main Hall