Sold-out Oshogatsu Draws Over 200 People

Japanese New Year celebrated in Miyabi Community event

A traditional Japanese mochi-pounding ceremony known as Mochitsuki was held. Picture: Instagram

January 15, 2026

A sold-out Japanese New Year celebration in Acton has highlighted the growing appetite for authentic cultural events and community-led programming, with more than 200 people attending Miyabi Community’s Oshogatsu 2026 gathering earlier this month.

Supported by the Embassy of Japan in the UK, the event brought together Japanese residents, families, and Londoners with an interest in Japanese culture for an afternoon of traditional food, customs and New Year rituals. Oshogatsu is one of the most significant celebrations in the Japanese calendar, symbolising renewal, reflection and the strengthening of social bonds — themes that were woven throughout the day’s activities.

Organisers said they were “pleasantly surprised” to learn that some attendees had travelled from across the country to take part, underscoring the national interest in high-quality Japanese cultural events hosted in the capital.

The contribution of the Japanese community to local life was recognised by Ealing councillor Seema Kumar, who addressed guests during the celebration.

“You are an essential part of the cultural, social and economic life of our borough,” she said. “Your traditions, values and community spirit enrich our borough in countless ways, and we are truly grateful for everything you bring to our shared home.”

The Embassy of Japan also offered its support. Yuichiro Mori, Counsellor for Public Relations and Culture, shared a New Year message with attendees, wishing them happiness and success for 2026.

A spokesperson for Miyabi Community said the success of the event reflects a wider need for spaces that foster cultural understanding and connection.

“Our Oshogatsu celebration was created to offer a genuine cultural experience while bringing people together in a way that feels respectful, warm and accessible,” they said. “The response has been extremely encouraging.”

Beyond its New Year festivities, Miyabi Community works with local businesses, cultural institutions and civic partners to support Japanese residents and introduce Japanese culture to wider audiences. Its programmes aim to strengthen cross-cultural understanding while contributing to the social and economic fabric of West London.

Following the strong turnout and positive feedback, Miyabi Community, which is based at the Wasps FC clubhouse on Twyford Avenue, is already preparing for its next major event — Miyabi Community Matsuri 2026 — which is expected to attract even larger crowds.