Tickets are now available for the second annual Tokyo X convention, Houston’s largest Japanese cultural event, scheduled for June 15 and 16.
Tokyo X started small in 2021. At the height of the COVID pandemic, chef Naoki Yoshida and his business partner Yusuke Motozawa wanted to do something to help flagging Asian businesses in the city. They planned to host the first Tokyo Night Festival in the parking lot of Yoshida’s now closed Shun Japanese Kitchen on Shepherd but had to move it to Heights Social at the last minute to accommodate interest. By 2023, it had grown into a two-day festival at NRG Center that encompassed all aspects of Japanese culture and saw 18,000 visitors.
“The Tokyo X Team could not be more excited to bring back Tokyo X for a second year," said a spokesperson from Tokyo X. “The reception that we received from the community last year was overwhelming, and we cannot wait to build on that growth and continue to build a taste of Japan to Houston!”
For foodies with a taste for Japanese food, attendance is a must. Last year, more than thirty vendors served various Japanese cuisines. This year’s menus are provided by Dumpling Haus, Cloud 10 Creamery, Royce Chocolate, Lady M Crepe, Caobao, and Blk Mkt Birria. Chefs offer live food demonstrations, giving visitors a chance to see the preparation in action. Twelve restaurants from Japan are flying in for the event.
However, the event has grown far beyond showcasing local food and businesses. Tokyo X brings celebrity guests from around the world, including a selection of popular Asian singers. This year will feature k-pop star Rozy, formerly of Yellow Bee and Dorothy; YouTube sensation Shannon; taiko drummer Kaminari Taiko, and more.
Tokyo X prides itself on its cosplay guests. Some of their featured costumed personalities have truly stunning recreations of famous anime and video game characters. Tiffany Gordon, Ana-Mia, Peachypie, and Adachi are only some of the better-known names in attendance. Visitors can also enter their own cosplays for a $1,000 prize.
Competition is in store for car customizers as well. Tokyo X celebrates Japan’s long history of tricked-out racing vehicles with over 40 cars on showcase. The best-looking car will win $1,000.
Courtesy of Tokyo X
The cosplay contest is always a highlight of Tokyo X.
Early bird tickets are now available for $35 on the Tokyo X website.
