MEDIA ADVISORY: This Weekend Only: A Rare Japanese Marketplace Comes to Toronto!

Media are invited to an exclusive preview on Thursday, November 5, featuring Japan's Ambassador to Canada NAKAGOME Masashi, along with rare spirits and unique holiday gifts.

TORONTO, Nov. 5, 2026 /CNW/ -- Just in time for the holiday shopping season, Next Stop Japan is bringing an incredible selection of rare Japanese spirits, one-of-a-kind gifts and hands-on experiences to Toronto for one weekend only. 

Guests will discover 15 varieties of shochu and awamori, including the first awamori available in Ontario, a spirit unique to Okinawa! They'll have the chance to sample and shop these exceptional spirits, meet Japanese spirits experts who know the stories behind every bottle, and enjoy five specialty cocktails to help get their home bar holiday-ready.

Beyond the spirits, visitors will find beautifully crafted Japanese knives, specialty foods, gorgeous stationery, unique homewares and distinctive holiday gifts from retailers across Canada, all without paying for shipping! Plus, they can sign up for hands-on cocktail-making, sushi-rolling and Japanese knife-skills workshops!

Following a popular spring event that drew lineups around the block, this special holiday edition offers even more reasons for Torontonians to discover Japan's exceptional products and craftsmanship.

MEDIA PREVIEW

Thursday, November 5 | 6:30–9:30 p.m.

WHERE: Cirillo's Academy, 118 The Esplanade, Toronto

SPECIAL GUESTS & INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

• Masashi Nakagome, Ambassador of Japan to Canada, Sharing Opening Remarks
• Yuichi Hatano, Executive Director, Japan External Trade Organization
• Meiko Kimura, Library Bar, Creator of Specialty Cocktails
• Troy Gilchrist: Award-winning bartender, Hosting Cocktail Workshops

The Japanese Ambassador will leave at approximately 7:15 p.m. immediately following opening remarks. Please coordinate interview requests in advance.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

• Friday, November 6: 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, November 7: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Sunday, November 8: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Admission is FREE! Event is for ages 19+ only.

SOURCE The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

MEDIA RSVP / CONTACT: Evangeline PR, [email protected] | 705-772-7280; [email protected] | 416-500-1135