2026 PERFORMERS

Yano et Agatsuma

Musical icon Akiko Yano joins with Tsugaru-shamisen expert Hiromitsu Agatsuma for a performance that reimagines the deep traditions of Japanese folk music.

First collaborating at New York’s Japan Society in 2014 before officially forming Yano et Agatsuma in 2019, the duo has drawn audiences with a defying sound that blends tradition and innovation. Most recently, the duo made an appearance on NHK’s Tiny Desk Concerts JAPAN, earning praise for their extraordinary creative vision. 

Don’t miss this performance to experience two of Japan’s celebrated artists as they bring their dynamic collaboration and breathtaking performance to the stage. 

USA SUMO

Experience the power, tradition, and excitement of Japan's national sport as J-Fest Houston welcomes Sumo Champions as part of their Fall North American Tour, featuring special guest and headliner, former sekiwake, Ichinojo. 

USA Sumo has coordinated over 1,400 sumo appearances and exhibitions, with elite Sumo Champions, in 42 countries, for the past 29 years, including the 3 sumo stars coming to Houston! You will experience sumo culture and tradition, as well as authentic sumo matches. live.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering sumo for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to witness one of Japan's most iconic traditions up close.

KAMINARI TAIKO

KAMINARI TAIKO was founded in 1996 by Jay Mochizuki along with a number of talented musicians from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.

KAMINARI's unique style of dynamic taiko performance is inspired by the traditional values of Japanese art and propulsive, toe-tapping world beats. The group's high-energy shows are powered by an arsenal of over 30 professional-quality taiko.

KAMINARI TAIKO enjoys sharing the spirit of taiko with audiences throughout Texas and beyond.  Over the past nineteen years, KAMINARI has toured to over 20 cites, performed hundreds of concerts for live audiences exceeding 150,000, and developed into a prominent performing taiko group. 

RYUKYUKOKU MATSURI DAIKO

Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko translates to Ryukyu Kingdom Festival Drums.

Performances are characterized by unique choreography, which incorporates Karate kata into Eisa with dynamic Bachi (drum sticks) movements.

Eisa (Okinawan: エイサーEisaa) is a form of folk dance originating from the Okinawan Islands, which were once known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. Eisa is a celebratory dance that is performed by young people of each community during the Obon festival to honor the spirits of their ancestors and is considered an important part of Okinawan culture.

The group is exploring and preserving Okinawan culture through the art and the spirit of taiko.

H-TOWN YOSAKOI CLUB

Yosakoi is a type of dance that originated in Kochi Prefecture in southern Japan. It combines traditional and modern song and dance and is iconic for its use of naruko, wooden clappers held in the hands.

H-Town Yosakoi Club is an extension of The Clements Yosakoi Club, which was established in 2009. The group performs at several events throughout the year.