Japanese Cultural Experiences
Try Ikebana or Japanese calligraphy in small, hands-on sessions guided by experienced instructors. Beginners are very welcome.
With Love, Japan · Auckland 2026
Experience a Little
Piece of Japan
in Auckland
A bright, family-friendly day of Japanese culture, traditional arts, food and festival fun — all in one welcoming place.
General admissionFREE ENTRYNo booking required
◷Saturday, 21 November 2026◴10:00 AM – 1:00 PM⌖Panmure, Auckland
Book a cultural experience →A cultural day in Auckland
A Day to
Experience Japan
Step into a little piece of Japan right here in Auckland.
Discover traditional Japanese arts, enjoy festival-style activities, try Japanese food and explore a variety of stalls and experiences throughout the venue.
Whether you come with your family, friends or on your own, With Love, JAPAN is a relaxed and welcoming place to discover something new.
Discover the day
What’s On
Traditional arts, festival fun, Japanese flavours and thoughtful finds — something for every kind of Japan-curious visitor.
Japanese Festival Fun
Enjoy Japanese festival-style activities for children and families, right here in Auckland.
Japanese Food
Discover Japanese flavours and enjoy something delicious while experiencing the event.
Market & Stalls
Browse Japanese-inspired products, handmade items and more. Take your time and discover something new.
Ikebana · 生け花Hands-on cultural experience
Ikebana Experience
Discover the Art of Japanese Flower Arrangement
Learn how to create balance and beauty using seasonal flowers while making your own arrangement. No previous experience is required, and you can take your flowers home.
Starts10:10 AM
Duration45 min
Per personNZ$40 + GST
- Beginners welcome
- Flowers included
- Vases and equipment provided
- Take your flowers home
✦ Only 8 places available. Advance booking is recommended.
Shodō · 書道A keepsake made by you
Japanese Calligraphy Experience
Write Your Name in Kanji
The instructor will choose Kanji characters based on your name and guide you through writing them with a traditional brush and ink. No Japanese or calligraphy experience is required.
Create something completely personal — then take your finished artwork home as a special keepsake.
Starts11:10 AM
Duration45 min
Per personNZ$20 + GST
- Beginners welcome
- Brushes, ink and paper provided
- Kanji selected based on your name
- Take your finished artwork home
✦ Only 8 places available. Advance booking is recommended.
Sadō · 茶道Hands-on cultural experience
Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience
Prepare, Whisk and Enjoy Your Own Matcha
Experience the Japanese tea ceremony in a welcoming, hands-on session at With Love, JAPAN. Learn how to prepare and whisk your own bowl of matcha, then enjoy it with a Japanese sweet.
Starts12:10 PM
Duration45 min
Per personNZ$20 + GST
- Beginners welcome
- Matcha and a Japanese sweet included
- All utensils provided
- Prepare and enjoy your own matcha
✦ Only 8 places available. Advance booking is recommended.
For children, families & the young at heart
Japanese Festival Fun
A Little Taste of a Japanese Festival
Experience some of the fun of a Japanese festival right here in Auckland. It is a playful way for children to discover Japanese culture — and perhaps a nostalgic experience for adults who grew up in Japan.
Activities may vary on the day.
Yo-yo Fishing01Yo-yo Fishing✦
02Uchiwa Fan Activity扇
03Origami折
Food, handmade creations & more
Explore, Taste
& Discover
There is more to discover throughout With Love, JAPAN.
Enjoy Japanese food, explore handmade creations and browse a variety of stalls inspired by Japanese culture. Take your time walking around, meeting people and discovering something new.
Interested in joining the event?
Booth holder applications are now open.
Japanese flavours
Handmade finds
Cultural activities
Festival moments
Local makersBefore you visit
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know for an easy, enjoyable day.
Is entry free?
Yes. Entry to With Love, JAPAN is free. Some cultural experience sessions require a separate participation fee.
Do I need to book to attend the event?
No. General admission does not require a booking. Simply come along between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Advance booking is recommended for all three cultural experience sessions because each is limited to 8 participants.
Can I bring my children?
Yes. This is a family-friendly event with activities suitable for families and children. Please note: Ikebana is for ages 12+, while Japanese Calligraphy and the Japanese Tea Ceremony are for ages 8+.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
Not at all. The event is open to everyone and Japanese language ability is not required.
Do I need experience to join a cultural session?
No. Ikebana, Japanese Calligraphy and the Japanese Tea Ceremony are all beginner-friendly. No previous experience is required.
Can I book a cultural experience on the day?
If spaces are still available, it may be possible to join on the day. Each session is limited to 8 participants, so advance booking is recommended.
A little piece of Japan in Auckland
See You at
With Love, JAPAN
Experience Japanese culture. Try something new. Taste Japan. Create something of your own.
Saturday, 21 November 202610:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Panmure Community Hall
7–13 Pilkington Road, Panmure, Auckland
General admissionFREE ENTRYNo booking required