Star festival to celebrate Japanese culture

People watch the Taiko drumming group at the Tanabata festival last year. Photo/Supplied

With a legend to rival Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the Japanese star festival, or Tanabata, is being hosted at the Rotorua Arts Village.

Main organiser Hiroe Howell said she was excited to share a "beautiful part" of Japanese culture with Rotorua people.

"The family-friendly event will be colourful and fun. Come and enjoy ... It's local support that keeps us going."

In its ninth year at the Rotorua Arts Village, the free event takes place on Sunday, July 9 from 2pm to 4pm.

Tanabata is known as the star festival in Japan and is based around the story of two star-crossed lovers.

It celebrates the meeting of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi, represented by the stars Vega and Altair.

According to legend, the Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on July 7.

While the event is being held two days later in Rotorua "it's as close as we can get to the [proper date]," Mrs Howell said.

"We want to introduce the many common cultural similarities between Japanese and Maori culture. We are happy to hold [the festival] during Matariki."

Origami and star-making workshops, a star quiz and storytelling are offered at the event, as well as "free, delicious Japanese snacks".

Decorations made at the Tanabata workshops. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Mikako Sato said six members of the Taiko Japanese drumming group would perform.

"We are supported by the Arts Village ... It was started as part of the school holiday programme but has now become its own event."

Mrs Howell said it had taken more than a month of preparation to get ready for the event by members of the Japanese community in Rotorua.

"[Over the years] it's not just the Japanese community who come along to take part, it's become known outside Rotorua. We are proud to keep this event going."

Rotorua Arts Village financial manager Tania Heasman said the event was "always well-supported by the community".

"Families come along and take part, there will be workshops and storytelling. It's a fun day where people can be creative and learn about another culture."