The 26th Thai Festival Tokyo has started. “Sihasak” emphasized Thai food as an active cultural ambassador known worldwide, thanking Japan for including it in the annual event calendar. It serves as a stage to elevate Thai culture on the international platform, elevating its presence globally.
On 9 May 2026, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, presided over the opening of the 26th Thai Festival in Tokyo. Present were Mr. Siam Sirimongkol, Director-General of the Community Development Department; Mr. Vichu Vechachiva, Ambassador to Tokyo; H.E. Mr. Shimada Tomoaki, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs (representing the Japanese government); Ms. Thapanee Kiatiwilai, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand; and Mr. Niki Hirobumi, Japan’s Deputy Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, who joined the opening ceremony.
Mr. Sihasak said that from the early days when only a few hundred people attended events at the Japanese embassy residence, the festival has expanded outdoors into a full Thai festival showcasing the best of Thailand, blending traditional and modern elements. This year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs places special focus on traditional Thai costumes, as Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana is preparing to register Thai costumes as tangible World Heritage this year, hence special emphasis on Thai costumes and fabrics.
Regarding the global popularity of Thai food and Thai brands, Mr. Sihasak noted that Thai cuisine has spread beyond Thai restaurants to nearly every country—even those previously thought not to have Thai food now have Thai restaurants. In addition, Thai products and goods are widely recognized. In Japan, Thai food popularity has evolved over 30 years from dishes like tom yum goong and green curry to staples such as stir-fried basil with fried egg, alongside famous Thai fruits like durian and mangosteen.
Mr. Sihasak reiterated that Thai food represents the national image, and as diplomats, it is their duty to promote soft power that makes foreigners appreciate Thailand. Thai food is a form of soft power.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ organization of the Thai Festival is a 30-year initiative serving as part of Thailand’s Rebranding strategy to present a modern new image of the country. The festival offers an opportunity for all Thai sectors to showcase their potential. The 2026 Thai Festival in Tokyo marks the largest Thai festival abroad, included in Japan’s annual event calendar, serving as a platform to promote economic diplomacy and elevate Thai culture internationally through proactive cultural diplomacy.
The 26th Thai Festival Tokyo 2026 takes place at Yoyogi Park from 9–10 May 2026. Key highlights include T-Pop artists under the concept “Thai Wave,” concerts, continuous Thai dance and Muay Thai performances, numerous renowned Thai food stalls and products. Additionally, famous Thai fruits such as durian, mangosteen, and mango are available for Japanese visitors and tourists to enjoy fully.