With just one month to go, anticipation is building as HYPER JAPAN, the UK’s biggest celebration of Japanese culture, makes its long-awaited Northern debut from 14–16 November 2025 at Manchester Central Convention Complex.

Already a fan-favourite in London since 2010, HYPER JAPAN’s first-ever Manchester event promises a packed weekend of authentic food and drink, live performances, anime attractions, shopping, workshops, and interactive experiences for fans of all ages.

At HYPER JAPAN Manchester, you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture, and its experience varies from pop culture, creativity and tradition. Pop culture fans can step into a world of creativity and fandom. Bandai Namco is bringing you a celebration of model building culture with immersive Gunpla workshops and a dozen Event Exclusive Model Kits. A giant Gundam statue will also be at their booth. At HYPER JAPAN Shop, there will be limited-edition anime items, authentic figures directly imported from Japan, and the popular gachapon capsule toys. Visitors can also explore the history of iconic anime series and get exclusive merchandise at the Evangelion 30th Anniversary Exhibition Booth. An eye-catching itasha (a car decorated with anime-inspired designs) will also be displayed at the main entrance, offering visitors a photogenic spot to capture memorable moments.

Explore a vibrant marketplace filled with unique finds and cultural experiences. For HYPER MARKET, more than 180 companies and independent artists are confirmed to offer you a wide range of unique, Japanese-inspired creations and products. You can find a special treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for the festive season. There will also be a free workshop experiencing Go, the Japanese traditional board game (famous worldwide through the manga and anime Hikaru no Go!)

FOOD AND DRINK

At the venue, you can enjoy freshly made onigiri (rice balls), ramen, as well as delicious street food like yakitori and takoyaki cooked right before your eyes. And of course, don’t miss out on classic Japanese sweets such as mochi and matcha desserts — perfect with Japanese craft coffee.

SAKE EXPERIENCE

SAKE EXPERIENCE, the popular sake-tasting attraction for HYPER JAPAN, comes to Manchester. This hands-on tasting event lets you explore a variety of sake – from sparkling sake to award-winning junmai – as well as Japanese liqueurs such as umeshu and yuzu, and meet the brewers and sake experts. You can taste, learn, vote for your favourites, and purchase your favourite drinks to take home. £20 (add-on to HYPER JAPAN admission). https://hyperjapan.co.uk/exhibitor/sake-experience-2025/.