The annual Arizona Matsuri Festival has come and gone yet again. Held this year at the Historic Heritage Square in the downtown phoenix area many locals were able to immerse themselves in delightful Japanese food and culture. So what exactly is this festival for? As the Phoenix New Times says: “The Japanese festival commemorates the centennial of the gifting of cherry blossom trees from Japan to the U.S. and features bonsai displays, live martial arts demos, calligraphy, food, Asahi beer garden, Kendama tournament, and three stages of live entertainment, including Taikoproject drummers from Los Angeles and other traditional music.“

Taiko Drummers

Guests in kimonos
Of course, many visitors don’t just come dressed in kimonos but also as their favorite anime/video game characters. Anime and video games have become such a big part of Japanese culture that this trend was soon followed by the culture’s enthusiasts in the West and gave birth to cosplay culture.

One of the guests dressed as Zack Fair of Final Fantasy 7
So in case you missed this cultural event this year, no worries! They will be back again next year to celebrate! There are also plenty of other opportunities to enjoy Japanese culture. Like in cosplay conventions: Phoenix ComiCon, SaboTen Con, etc. Also, on March 23, 2012 an Anime Night will be hosted at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix in conjunction with Himeji Sister Cities Committee.
Written by: Gillian Tomimbang
















