Hidden Gems · 1 min read

The Summer Nikkei Garden Market

By Francesca Bonifacio · July 10, 2026

The 2026 Nikkei Garden Market fell on a beautiful sunny Saturday afternoon, welcoming a summer start. It was nice to see many people dressed in Yukatas and summer kimonos, embracing Japanese culture. There were 94 vendors, with a mix of delicious food, jewellery and crafts.

They were also celebrating the Tanabata festival, also known as the Star Festival. This celebrates the legend of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi who are tragic lovers who can only meet on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. This typically falls in July or August. People can write their deepest wishes on colourful paper. These colourful wishes were strung along the walls of Nikkei; praying for passing exams, pursuing dreams, and long lasting friendships.

As our family was leaving the indoor market, we got to see Bon Odori. This lively dance is a spiritual dance that welcomes ancestral spirits that are visiting. It is typically danced during July 15 and August 15 in Obon festivals in Japan. Bon Odori is beginner friendly and easy to follow, it was lovely to see many people in the community take part in this festival. This was the perfect event for families and those eager to experience Japanese culture.

Keep an eye open for the Nikkei Cultural Centre and their events!