Discover something new in Denver: SPIRIT OF JAPAN 2025

The “SPIRIT OF JAPAN” festival celebrated its second year in Denver this year.
The festival at Sakura Square in downtown Denver returned bigger and better than last year, with excited crowds and a lively atmosphere.

One thing to keep in mind, you need an admission pass to enter.
Since only a limited number are sold at the door, it’s best to grab yours online ahead of time.

On the day we chose to go, we got the “Matsuri Pass” for about $92 per person (fees included. Prices may vary) at the door.
It came with 20 food and drink tickets, an original tote bag, and a sake cup.

Food tickets require 1–5 tickets per item, and drinks 1–3 tickets.
Extra tickets can be purchased inside the venue if needed.

You can find familiar Japanese favorites like Gindaco (Japanese octopus balls), as well as festival staples like yakisoba and shaved ice.
Everything looked so good, and it was fun to look around.

There was also a tuna cutting show, and the fresh sashimi was absolutely delicious.

Guests 21 and over who want to enjoy alcohol receive a wristband, allowing them to purchase drinks with their tickets.

The alcohol selection focused on Japanese drinks, with a wide variety of sake and whisky, as well as beer and other beverages, allowing visitors to try and compare different options.

I was excited about dango (skewered rice dumplings), my favorite Japanese traditional sweets.

Uji matcha (premium green tea from Japan) shaved ice was also delicious.

With 60 tickets for our family of three, we were a bit worried at first about using them all. But we tried a variety of food and drinks, picked up some souvenirs on the way out, and ended up using them all perfectly.

SPIRIT OF JAPAN is a perfect way to experience Japanese culture in Denver.
With plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment, be sure to get your passes early so you can enjoy everything they have!

SPIRIT OF JAPAN
September 12-14, 2025
1255 19th Street, Denver CO 80202
https://www.spirit-jpn.com/denver