2026 PERFORMERS
Enjoy traditional music, dance, drama and more!
photo courtesy of Sony Music Artists
PUFFY AmiYumi
Get ready to celebrate 30 years of music, style, and pure pop fun with PUFFY AmiYumi, one of Japan’s most beloved and recognizable musical duos. Since their debut in 1996, Ami Onuki and Yumi Yoshimura have won over fans around the world with their signature blend of J-pop and rock, delivering songs that are as catchy as they are timeless.
With their colorful style, playful charm, and global appeal, PUFFY AmiYumi has connected with audiences of all ages through hit songs, international tours, and appearances in popular animated television in the United States, including their own series Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi. Their music is upbeat, energetic, and full of personality—creating a live experience that is welcoming, joyful, and easy for everyone to enjoy.
This special 30th anniversary performance is more than a concert—it’s a “birthday carnival!” Featuring fan favorites, beloved classics, and plenty of surprises, PUFFY AmiYumi brings a lively, feel-good energy that invites audiences to sing along, smile, and share in the fun.
Sponsored in part by the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board
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.
Photo courtesy of USA SUMO
USA SUMO
Experience the power, tradition, and excitement of Japan's national sport as J-Fest Houston welcomes USA Sumo as part of its Fall North American Tour, featuring special guest Ichinojo.
USA Sumo, the nation's premier sumo organization, has spent more than 25 years promoting authentic sumo through world-class competition, cultural education, and live demonstrations across the country.
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.
photo by Night Sky Creative
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.
photo courtesy of Okinawa MICE NAVI
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.
SAKURA CHORUS
The Houston Japanese Choir Sakura (meaning “cherry blossoms”) was founded in 2014, following a moving performance at Japan Festival Houston. Formed to carry a message of hope and solidarity to East Japan Earthquake survivors, Sakura has grown into a dynamic ensemble dedicated to cultural exchange through music.
Under the direction of Artistic Director Teruhiko Toda, whose extensive opera career spans Japan’s leading stages and Houston Grand Opera, Sakura Sakura blends Japanese and global genres.
Their performances are crafted to delight singers and audiences alike, forging connection and inspiration through song.
photo by Thomas Dwyer
CLEMENTS HIGH SCHOOL 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.
The Clements Yosakoi Club was established in 2009, and performs at several events throughout the year.