From October 25-27, 2024, Rome will host the first edition of Kizuna, the Festival of Japanese Cuisine and Culture, at Officine Farneto. This event promises a total immersion in the tradition of Japan, offering visitors an “oriental” experience among workshops, cultural activities, performances and a rich gastronomic offer. The name “Kizuna,” which means “bond” or “connection” in Japanese, reflects the festival’s goal of promoting mutual understanding and appreciation among different cultures.
During the three-day festival, visitors can explore more than 3,000 square meters of exhibition space, with 18 exhibitors and a dedicated restaurant. The program includes martial arts demonstrations, taiko drum and traditional dance performances, Japanese music performances, and workshops in calligraphy, origami and cooking. At the booths you can find a variety of items, Japanese clothing, tea and sake.
To create an authentic and immersive environment, the set design was entrusted to Valeria Vecellio, who was awarded the David di Donatello 2024 for best décor for the film Kidnapped. Vecellio designed set-ups that recreate the Japanese atmosphere in an evocative way.
Japanese cuisine
Kizuna is also a festival dedicated to Japanese cuisine, with a culinary offering that enriches the cultural experience. Cooking shows allow chefs to demonstrate the preparation of typical recipes, while cooking classes offer the public an opportunity to learn directly. At the 11 booths and 2 bistros, recreated as izakaya, you can enjoy classic dishes such as bao, ramen, gyoza, edamame, karaage, sake, sushi and many more. Desserts such as taiyaki and mochi ice are also available, as well as traditional drinks such as Japanese beer and sake.
The temporary restaurant offers a complete dining experience with a tasting menu prepared by Chef Koji Nakai. The event also includes two talks exploring Japanese culinary tradition in Italy and the growing interest in sake. These talks provide an opportunity for discussion and debate on the cuisine of the Rising Sun.
Useful information
The festival will take place at Officine Farneto, located at Via dei Monti della Farnesina 73 – Foro Italico. Tickets are from 10 euros. Admission is free for children up to 8 years old.
Festival schedule
The festival will be open to the public from October 25 to 27, 2024:
- hours Friday, October 25, 5-10:30 p.m.
- hours Saturday, October 26,10am-4pm, 5-10:30pm
- Sunday, October 27, 10am-4pm, 5-10:30pm