See samurai swordsmanship, try origami and meet a 500-year-old bonsai at Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon celebrates Thailand’s long-standing ties with Japan this August with Siam Paragon The Wondrous Japan Heritage 2026, a cultural festival running from August 20-30. Head to Parc Paragon from August 20-23 for live samurai swordsmanship, ninja performances and hands-on workshops, with plenty to see even if you only have an hour between shopping stops.

From August 20-23, the main stage hosts Awaken the Samurai between 2pm and 5pm, featuring sword school Shidenryu Tokyo and performers from Iga, known for its association with Japan’s ninja tradition. There are also demonstrations exploring the discipline and techniques behind these historic warrior cultures.

Craft sessions cover origami, maneki neko making and the strategy board game Samurai. For something quieter, Living Hall presents A Living Legacy of Time, a bonsai exhibition featuring seven prized masterpieces, including one more than 500 years old. Guided tours happen on weekends, while bonsai workshops take place on August 22 and 29.

The wider programme also brings Japanese food, fashion, books and design to the mall, with familiar names such as Kinokuniya, Loft and Nintendo alongside Japanese restaurants and cafes. Admission to the main festival activities is free.

August 20-30, 10am-8pm at Siam Paragon