Passion for Japan: Exhibition, immersive installations, and Japanese street food at La Villette in Paris

No passport or long-haul ticket needed: Passion Japan transports you to the heart of the archipelago without leaving Paris. From March 19 to August 23, 2026, the La Villette Tent Space in the 19th arrondissement hosts this immersive exhibition that invites visitors to explore the many facets of Japan.

The journey unfolds like a leisurely stroll. It begins in a traditional neighborhood of Kyoto, then continues through the bustling streets of Tokyo, before taking a peaceful pause in a zen garden designed for tranquility and reflection. At each stop, iconic elements of Japanese culture come to life: samurai, tea ceremonies, architecture, cuisine, fashion, manga, and cosplay. Visitors experience these through life-sized recreations, authentic artifacts, and immersive sound and visual environments that truly capture the spirit of Japan.

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The highlight of the exhibition unfolds with an immersive experience dedicated to ukiyo-e — the Japanese art form meaning "floating world." Hokusai, Hiroshige, and other masters come alive around visitors through stunning large-scale projections and digital animations, providing a modern take on this iconic art style.

The visit concludes with a stroll through an outdoor Japanese street food shop and food court adjacent to the exhibit. Accessible, immersive, and perfect for the whole family, Passion Japan offers an engaging taste of a captivating Japan—blending rich cultural heritage with modern innovations—all right in Paris.