Yokai Festival: An "Eccentric Festival" Gathering Traditional and Alternative Japanese Culture in Paris, Initiated by Artist Maïa Barouh

Paris – May 30, 2026: In the vibrant Parisian summer, La Petite Halle de la Villette opens its doors to an extraordinary event: from May 31 to July 28, 2026, the Yokai Festival will take place here, a festival bringing the mysterious world of Japanese yokai—these fascinating and elusive creatures of Japanese folklore—into the heart of the city. Initiated by French-Japanese musician Maïa Barouh, the festival promises a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture.

Maïa Barouh, daughter of French chanson singer Pierre Barouh and Japanese artist Ushioda Atsuko, skillfully blends traditional Japanese singing with modern elements such as electronic, pop, and rap in her music. Her voice and flute open a unique sonic world, blurring cultural boundaries. Through the Yokai Festival, she invites Parisians to immerse themselves in the world of yokai, transcending the limits of reality.

The festival lasts three days: held on May 31, June 28, and July 28, 2026. During the day, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., there are Japanese stalls and mask-making workshops showcasing Japanese crafts and traditions. In the evening, from 7:30 p.m. to midnight, the venue transforms into a place of transformation with concerts, DJ sets, and ritual dances. Daytime activities are free to enter, while evening events require tickets.

In addition to Maïa Barouh, several artists representing the diversity of Japanese music will perform. For example, Mitsune combines traditional Japanese music with psychedelic and ritualistic sounds to breathe new life into ancient stories. The dance troupe Nekomata offers captivating experiences by blurring the boundaries of reality through their performances.

Located in the heart of Parc de la Villette, La Petite Halle de la Villette is the ideal venue for this festival. Its multifunctional space combining concert hall, restaurant, and nightclub reflects cultural diversity and openness. The venue is located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, easily accessible by public transport or on foot.

For those wishing to delve deeper into the world of yokai, the festival offers an excellent opportunity to explore Japanese mythology and celebrate Franco-Japanese cultural connections. It is an invitation to embrace the strange and push beyond one’s boundaries.

For more information and ticket purchases, please visit the festival’s official website. Early booking is recommended due to limited availability, as this unique cultural event attracts great attention.