London Hotels Insight reports from Hyper Japan 2012

Hyper Japan returned for a fourth time to London last weekend and we went over to investigate for you. This time it was in Brompton Hall, Earls Court and much like last year celebrated all things Japanese in a fun and slightly offbeat manner. If you missed the event, check out the website where they’ve reported on a number of the highlights including a samurai sword show and a performance from rock guitarist Tomoyasu Hotei.

A key feature of the event every year is the Eat Japan section and this year was as mouthwatering as any other. The takoyaki (octopus balls) from the Soya stand were so fresh and tasty we went back for several helpings! We also enjoyed the exceptionally good okonomiyaki and dorayaki on offer (savoury and sweet Japanese pancakes) as well as a quirky icicle dessert infused with a green tea flavour and a sweet red bean accompaniment.

Atsuko Ikeda presented some mini-demonstrations of ‘Japas’ – a Japanese take on Spanish Tapas – and demonstrated ways to liven up finger food and nibbles. Natsuki Kikuya, Head Sake Sommelier of Roka Restaurant, showed us how to make cocktails inspired by Japanese ingredients. Plus, for the choc-o-holic in all of us, acclaimed chocolatier William Curly was on hand to infuse chocolate with Japanese flavours.

Sake was also a key feature at this year’s Hyper Japan, with a popular tasting experience set up and enjoyed by many (though we were sidelined by the Kirin beer on tap and didn’t want to mix our alcohol!).

A particularly wonderful event, which showcases all things Japanese; if you get the chance to go next year, we say definitely go but book early!

Missed Hyper Japan 2012? Or just love Japanese culture and food? Then fear not, London hotels are bringing key traits from Japan into their hotels.

For example, Hilton Tower Bridge is now offering a ‘bento box’ inspired afternoon tea, served with green tea and champagne. Or you could try the unique Italo-Japanese “susci” platter in Moreno at The Baglioni as sampled on this blog. And The Montcalm also serves a proper Japanese breakfast.

Then there is also a beautiful secret garden in Holland Park where you can seek refuge and feel transported straight back to Nippon.

The Andaz Hotel has its own Japanese restaurant, Miyako (read LHI’s review of its Japanese afternoon tea - sadly no longer available) which offers authentic Japanese food and sake in the heart of London.

Check the best rate for the Andaz Hotel from 30+ hotel booking sites

You could also head down to the Japan Centre near Piccadilly Circus for an authentic Japanese experience, with amenities like a supermarket, a Japanese bookshop and Toku (a sushi restaurant) which also allows you to enjoy some of the very best Japanese products.