June. 6-7, 2026
Entertainment
February Performances
APPARE Yosakoi Vancouver
We are APPARE Yosakoi Vancouver, the first Yosakoi team on the West Coast of Canada!
We dance Yosakoi, a Japanese traditional dance, to light up the city of “RAIN”couver and bring smiles, energy, and joy to people here. The name has double meanings; “the characters for APPARE; 天晴 mean ‘clear the sky and sunny’ ” and “あっぱれ” is a word people shout out after seeing an excellent performance in Japan”.
Our team motto is “Smile, Shout, and Enjoy”! Watch people from all over the world unite together through Yosakoi regardless of their background! APPARE!!
Performance Date & Time: Feb 21, 12:00pm
Katori Shinto Ryu Kenjutsu - Sagawara Budo
KATORI SHINTO RYU is a battlefield martial art founded in the 1400s period of Japan, focusing on sword fighting techniques. Our techniques formed the basis for modern martial arts such as Iaido and Kendo.
The focus of KATORI SHINTO RYU is to train a warrior who can utilize multiple weapons in full-speed combat. We train to fight with traditional samurai weapons such as the long and short swords, fighting staff, spear, and naginata
Performance Date & Time: Feb 21, 1:30pm
Rakuichi Vancouver Mikoshi
We, Rakuichi, are the Omikoshi (portable shrine) group with a history of over 20 years in Vancouver. We carry Omikoshi, the essential part of the Japanese festival, and we perform Ohayashi music and Shishi-mai Lion dance to cheer up Omikoshi.
This time, we have no Mikoshi but a special arrangement of the Lion dance. Please enjoy the Shishimai!
Performance Date & Time: Feb 21, 3:00pm
Southern Wave Okinawan Music & Dance Society
Southern Wave Okinawan Music and Dance Society is a registered nonprofit organization dedicated to the practice of Okinawan music and dance in Metro Vancouver, BC.
Our mission is to create an active platform where people of all backgrounds can experience and enjoy Okinawan culture through music and dance, while sharing this passion within our multicultural community. We also strive to serve as a bridge connecting Okinawan artisans and cultural practitioners.
Performance Date & Time: Feb 22, 12:00pm
Shorinji Kempo BC
Originating from Japan, Shorinji Kempo is a martial art that combines physical prowess with mental discipline.
Witness the fluid and powerful movements of Shorinji Kempo practitioners, highlighting its unique blend of strikes, kicks, joint locks, and throws. Embrace the philosophy of self-improvement, mutual respect, and the unity of mind and body that defines Shorinji Kempo.
Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or a curious spectator, join us for a captivating display of skill and tradition at the heart of Japanese culture.
Performance Date & Time: Feb 22, 1:30pm
Vancouver Okinawa Taiko
Vancouver Okinawa Taiko, founded in 2004, has been performing in numerous community festivals, charity functions, and anniversary events for just over two decades.
The group’s aim is to promote and preserve Okinawan-style drum-dancing Eisa, and to share Okinawan cultural heritage. The membership consists of a mixed generation to reflect the presentation of grassroots folk art.
We hope to deliver the Okinawan spirit through the beat of our drums and the harmonies of our dance
Performance Date & Time: Feb 22, 3:00pm
Japanese Workshop
Japan Market Spring will also feature an exclusive workshop!
Visitors will have a chance to actively engage with Japanese culture beyond the market floor.
Schedule:
February 21 & 22, 2026
(both days!)
Japanese-themed Fun Games
2:15 pm – 2:45 pm
Japanese Calligraphy
3:15 pm – 4 pm
Space may be limited. Hope to see you there!