Japan Expo Paris 2026 Event Report | 106 exhibitors joined WABI SABI at our largest venue in history for our 25th anniversary

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Once again, Japan Expo Paris, one of Europe's largest celebrations of Japanese culture, has taken place. This year marked a significant milestone: the 25th anniversary of Japan Expo. The event was held in its largest venue space to date, with an additional hall added to accommodate the scale. 
At the WABI SABI pavilion, managed by Japan Promotion, 106 artists and companies showcased highly creative and premium Japanese craftsmanship, food culture, and art. 

Event Name: Japan Expo Paris 2026 
Dates: Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 12, 2026 
Venue: Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Center 
Attendance: Approximately 220,000
Official Website: https://www.japan-expo-france.jp/jp/ 

Amid a record-breaking heatwave, Japan Expo celebrates its 25th anniversary on its largest scale ever

Reaching its 25th-anniversary milestone, Japan Expo expanded its footprint this year with an additional hall, resulting in the largest venue space in the event's history. Over the course of four days, more than 220,000 visitors flocked to the expanded venue, bringing even more heat to a French summer already making headlines for its record temperatures. 

A star-studded lineup of guests from Japan made appearances. The venue erupted in cheers when YOSHIKI (X JAPAN) arrived, accompanied by his famous transparent piano. Kazuya Kamenashi also attended as a voice actor for the anime adaptation of the popular wine manga The Drops of God. He was welcomed as a special guest who bridges two cultures deeply familiar to France: wine and anime. 

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The WABI SABI Pavilion: Embodying "Japonisme" 

This year, 106 exhibitors and workshop booths gathered at WABI SABI, the only pavilion at Japan Expo dedicated to traditional Japanese culture. 

For the first time, a large hanging sign was installed above the pavilion, making a bold statement to the surrounding area. This unprecedented display allowed visitors to spot the pavilion's location at a glance, even from a distance. 

Promoting a rich diversity of culture 

Embodying this year's theme, "Japonisme," WABI SABI brought together 106 exhibitors spanning genres from artisanal handiwork to art and gourmet food. Art galleries offered items featuring artists' paintings and illustrations, while exhibits centered around Kyoto kimono shops drew visitors' eyes with products backed by impeccable craftsmanship. There was a constant stream of people stopping by booths showcasing crafts that evoke a sense of Japan, such as geta sandals, cut glass, and papier-mâché dolls, as well as those highlighting the techniques behind them. 

The accessory booths, popular every year, were a huge success once again, with visitors' eyes lighting up as they sought out delicate designs and meticulous handiwork. Beyond traditional designs, highly original items from Harajuku-style and independent creators also drew attention as expressions of "modern Japanese style." 

Warm interactions with visitors 

Even with this year's venue being the largest in our history, the warm atmosphere unique to WABI SABI remained unchanged. The large number of repeat visitors who come every year without fail is another hallmark of the WABI SABI experience. 
We received numerous comments from visitors such as, "Thank you for coming every year and sharing your culture," and "I'm so happy I could come to see you again this year," with many people seen eagerly awaiting reunions with artists from Japan. 

We heard happy complaints like, "I would have bought more if I had the budget," and sentiments such as, "I felt like I was in Japan for a little while." Comments like, "I've been taking great care of the piece I bought here before," truly highlighted the depth of the connection built between Japan and France over the years. 

Held again this year under the patronage of the Embassy 

Once again this year, WABI SABI was held under the patronage of the Embassy of Japan in France as a hub for "sharing authentic Japan." Among the many booths at Japan Expo, few receive such official backing, which contributes to the sense of trust that is unique to WABI SABI. 

Why not exhibit at Japan Expo Paris?

Japan Expo is scheduled to take place next year from Thursday, July 8 to Sunday, July 11, 2027. Following our 25th anniversary, we are scaling up even further—why not bring your work to fans from all over Europe? 

If you are looking to showcase your work internationally or enter the European market,Contact usto get in touch. 

Our Japanese-speaking staff will support you every step of the way, from exhibition preparation and travel arrangements to on-site operations.