Today’s episode of Open Your Eyes highlighted Japan Day 2026, as organizers Asako Solis and Yumi Guild shared what visitors can look forward to at this year’s celebration of Japanese culture in Belize. Scheduled for Sunday, October 25, at the Belize Civic Center, the free event will run from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, bringing together cultural experiences, traditional activities, food, and entertainment for the entire family.
Celebrating Japanese Culture: Then and Now
This year’s theme, “Then and Now,” focuses on showcasing both traditional Japanese culture and modern pop culture. Solis explained that the event is moving beyond anime vendors to offer visitors more opportunities to experience Japanese traditions firsthand.
With approximately 60 booths already filled, attendees can explore a variety of activities, including origami, handicrafts, and Japanese calligraphy, where visitors can have their names written in Japanese characters. A Japanese card game hosted by a Belizean will also be available, giving visitors another way to engage with the culture.
A Taste of Japanese Tradition Through Matcha
During the segment, Guild introduced viewers to the Japanese tea ceremony, demonstrating how matcha is prepared and served using traditional utensils, including a bamboo scoop, whisk, and an iron pot.
She explained that the ceremony is about more than drinking tea. It is a way of welcoming guests, sharing time together, and creating a peaceful experience. Viewers also learned about different types of matcha, from more accessible preparations to the stronger, more traditional varieties used for special occasions.
While the traditional tea ceremony itself will not be offered as a public activity at Japan Day, visitors can explore other matcha-inspired experiences through vendors offering drinks, cakes, cookies, and even matcha-flavored snow cones.
Traditional Dress, Food, and Photo Opportunities
Visitors will also have opportunities to experience Japanese clothing, including kimono and yukata, with options for men, women, and children. Two additional photo booths will allow attendees to capture memories of the event.
Japanese cuisine will be another major feature, with a dedicated food area offering a variety of options. Organizers encouraged visitors to consult the event guide for booth locations and information about participating vendors.
Music and Cultural Performances
Japan Day 2026 will also feature a diverse entertainment programme, including a special appearance by the Belize National Orchestra. Its director, Mr. Pirot, has arranged a Japanese song specifically for the event.
The programme will also incorporate Creole and Garifuna music, along with a Japanese ballad created through a collaboration with Loretto Pelao. These performances reflect the event’s aim of bringing different cultures together while celebrating Japanese traditions.
Keeping Japanese Culture Alive in Belize
Solis noted that Belize’s Japanese community is relatively small, with approximately 15 Japanese families, including embassy personnel and JICA volunteers. She explained that the growing interest of Belizeans and participation from vendors representing different cultural backgrounds help keep Japanese traditions visible and accessible.
The event is made possible through the support of community sponsors, vendors, and attendees, whose contributions help organizers continue sharing Japanese culture with the wider Belizean public.
Join the Celebration
Japan Day 2026 takes place on Sunday, October 25, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Belize Civic Center. Admission is free, and families, friends, and anyone interested in experiencing Japanese culture are invited to attend.
From traditional tea preparation and Japanese crafts to food, fashion, music, and modern cultural experiences, Japan Day offers an opportunity to discover Japanese traditions and celebrate the cultural connections that bring communities together.
You Can Watch Today’s Open Your Eyes Episode Here
