Yokai Expo 2025: Join a Monster Parade and Shop Spooky Goods

Meet Japanese Monsters in Kagawa

The Yokai Expo 2025 is set to captivate audiences in Shodoshima, Kagawa Prefecture, on February 2. Featuring over 100 exhibitors, the event will explore the theme of Yokai, celebrating both famous and lesser-known creatures from Japanese folklore.

Attendees can look forward to unique displays from the renowned Yokai Art Museum, showcasing over 900 sculptures, as well as incredible merchandise and workshops.

Coinciding with the event, there will be a Yokai Fashion Show where monsters will perform dazzling performances and a parade along the sandy Angel Road.

For those in Tokyo and Osaka from January 8 to March 26 (Umeda until February 27), there will also be original artworks and limited-edition merchandise available from acclaimed yokai artist Chubei Yagyu, and ukiyo-e artists Utagawa Kuniyoshi and Tsukioka Yoshitoshi at the Hands Shinjuku store and the Hands Umeda store.

Yagyu will also host live painting sessions and personalized portrait events, inviting visitors to engage directly with the world of yokai.

The expo takes place in the same month as the traditional celebration of Koto-yoka, a time believed to mark the opening of a door to another world. On February 8, the day of Koto-yoka, Hands Shinjuku will be open, inviting visitors to explore a diverse array of classical yokai products and goods from across Japan.

Attendees can look forward to Yagyu's unique creations alongside popular items such as Udon-nou and Gajirou. This celebration of yokai culture promises an unforgettable experience for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike, making it a must-visit event this February.

Yokai Expo 2025 Highlights

1. Yokai Fashion Show and Parade
2. Yokai Art Museum
3. Monster Pride Pavilion
4. Yokai Merchandise at HANDS Shinjuku store and Umeda

Key Highlights of the Yokai Expo 2025

Yokai Fashion Show: YOKAI COLLECTION SHODOSHIMA

The Yokai Expo 2025 will feature an extraordinary fashion show titled Yokai Collection Shodoshima on February 2, showcasing the creative talents of the Akuyaku Rengo group.

Known for their vibrant performances across Japan, these artists will bring Yokai and mythical creatures to life through intricate costumes and elaborate designs.

The highlight of the show will be the Shodoshima Hyakki Yakou, a parade leading attendees to the scenic Angel Road, which is accessible at low tide. This unique event allows visitors to walk alongside performers, fully immersing themselves in Yokai culture.

Changing rooms will be available for those wanting to don their own Yokai costumes, encouraging participation and offering memorable photo opportunities.

With an expected turnout of around 3,000 attendees, the Yokai Collection Shodoshima promises to be a captivating addition to the expo, celebrating the lively traditions and artistry of Yokai culture in Shodoshima.

Yokai Expo 2025 Timetable

9:00 - 16:00 - Exhibition: Display of 50 finalist works from the Yokai Painting Contest.
9:30 - Opening Ceremony: Tadahira Yagyu declares the expo open.
9:45 - Performance: Four Seas Navy Drums by Shikai Suigun Taiko from Shodoshima.
10:00 - Large Brush Performance: Fox Yunoshin & Yasuhiro Morimoto.
10:15 - Theme Song: Come to Shodoshima Ondo by Miyazaki Yuu & Chokeshi Anikiyan.
10:30 - Public Judging: Yokai Painting Grand Prize.
10:45 - Monster Pride Pavilion: Exhibitors showcase.
11:15 - Kamishibai Performance: The Red Demon Who Cried by Yu Miyazaki with Kagawa's Kind Blue Demon.
11:30 - Yokai Parade: Features various yokai characters.
11:45 - Yokai Fashion Show: Yokai Collection Shodoshima and parade to Angel Road.
12:45 - Yokai Dance ①: Performance by SPRITZER & IMAGICAL Shodoshima School.
13:00 - Yokai Painting Grand Prize Results Announcement.
13:15 - Talk Show: Yokai BIG3 featuring experts in yokai culture.
14:30 - Gesture Game: Interactive activity with yokai characters.
15:00 - Creative Shrine Maiden Dance: Himi Furumai performance.
15:15 - Yokai Song Medley: Live performance by Yu Miyazaki and Chokeshi Brother.
15:30 - Yokai Dance ②: Performance by SPRITZER & IMAGICAL Shodoshima School with Chokeshi Anikiyan.
15:45 -Finale: All guests participate in "Goen Throw" (rice cake throwing event).
16:00 -Closing Ceremony: Led by Chouhei Yagyu.

Venue: Tonosho Town General Hall, Fretopia Hall, 267-78, Tonosho-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa Prefecture and the Yokai Art Museum 398, Tonosho-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa Prefecture
Official Website Schedule: https://www.yokaiexpo.com/stage

Reserve changing rooms with a application form :https://docs.google.com

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Yokai Art Museum Brings Yokai Culture to Life at Expo 2025

The Yokai Art Museum is excited to play a prominent role in Yokai Expo 2025. This cultural showcase will not only promote yokai lore but also celebrate artistic expressions inspired by these captivating creatures.

With 41 diverse exhibitors confirmed, the complete lineup will be unveiled in the new year, ensuring an impressive array of talent.

Situated in the beautiful Maze Town on Shodoshima Island, the museum will feature more than 100 booths that unite enthusiasts passionate about yokai culture. This unique event promises to enrich attendees' appreciation of Japan's rich folklore and art, making Yokai Expo 2025 a must-visit experience.

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Monster Pride Pavilion at Yokai Expo 2025

A major attraction at Yokai Expo 2025 will be the vibrant Monster Pride Pavilion, coinciding with the 3rd Shikoku Yokai Festival.

This segment will draw yokai enthusiasts from across the nation, providing a lively platform for merchandise sales, promotional activities, and hands-on workshops that delve into the rich tapestry of yokai culture.

Participants will connect with fellow fans, explore traditional and contemporary yokai lore, and discover the impact of these fascinating creatures on Japanese art and culture.

In addition to the Monster Pride Pavilion, the expo will feature several themed areas, including the Yokai Art Pavilion, showcasing diverse artworks inspired by yokai, and the Mononoke Department Store Pavilion, where visitors can purchase unique yokai-themed goods and participate in craft workshops.

The Local Character Pavilion will enhance community spirit with presentations from local mascots and virtual personalities, making the Yokai Expo 2025 a must-attend cultural event for everyone.

Yokai Merchandise at HANDS Shinjuku store and Umeda store

Starting January 8, 2025, Tokyu Hands will launch a special Yokai feature as part of its RE-i-WA project, celebrating the significance of these mystical creatures in Japanese culture.

This event will bring together famous and lesser-known yokai from around the world at the Shinjuku, Umeda, and Hakata stores.

With the Yokai Expo in Shodoshima on the horizon, yokai culture is experiencing a revival. February also marks Koto Yoka, a traditional day associated with a connection to the supernatural, creating an ideal opportunity to explore various yokai-themed merchandise.

Celebrated yokai artist Chubei Yagyu will showcase original artwork and conduct live painting sessions, offering personalized yokai-style portraits on February 8 and 9.

The Shinjuku store will display Yagyu’s artwork until March 6 and feature exclusive items from the Yokai Museum, such as hand-drawn postcards, themed clothing, and classic collectibles.

Visitors can also enjoy local character merchandise and items from the Koriyama Karappo Festival, which highlights Japan's traditional empty-headed dance.

Attendees can shop for exciting merchandise, including original paintings by Tadahei Yagyu and unique goods like the Yokai Expo Penlight, which offers 15 vibrant colors, along with the playful Anything Guide T-shirt that invites wearers to channel their inner yokai.

The beloved local yokai Gajirou will also make a special appearance to engage with fans, further enhancing community connections.

Dates: January 8 - March 6 (Shinjuku Event) and January 8 - February 27 (Umeda Event)

Venues: Hands Shinjuku store-Tokyo, Shibuya, Sendagaya, 5 Chome−24−2, Times Square Building, 2-7F
Hands Umeda store - Osaka, Kita Ward, Umeda, 3 Chome−1−1 Daimaru Umeda 10-12F
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Yokai Expo 2025

In conclusion, the Yokai Expo 2025 promises to be an enchanting experience that weaves together magic, mystery, and a playful spirit. This extraordinary celebration of yokai culture is designed for attendees of all ages, offering an opportunity to dive into a realm filled with mesmerizing performances, engaging theme songs, and vibrant stalls.

As families and friends gather to discover the artistic marvels on display, they will forge lasting memories that resonate long after the event.

With a unique blend of artistic expression, cultural education, and community engagement, Yokai Expo 2025 promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees. For further information and updates, please visit the official Yokai Expo website at yokaiexpo.com.

Yokai Expo 2025 - Shodoshima Island Event
Dates: February 2
Hours: 9:00 - 16:30

Merchandise and Shopping: January 8 - March 6 (Shinjuku Event) and January 8 - February 27 (Umeda Event)
Yokai-style portrait session by Chubei Yagyu: February 8 - 9 at 11:00 -13:00 and 14:00- 16:30 (Hands Shinjuku store, 2nd floor)

Offical Website:https://www.yokaiexpo.com/home

Information and photo source: PR Times ① ② and 3