A Perfect Day For Anime Enthusiasts, From Demon Slayer To Sashimi And Soothing Onsens
An immersive anime exhibition, Japanese comfort food and onsen relaxation come together at Kallang Wave Mall.
Presented by Kallang Wave Mall
The moment I step out of Stadium MRT, the air already feels different. This isn't just another "day at the mall". It is one of those rare days that feels quietly significant, the kind you know will never unfold in quite the same way again. It feels like a full-sensory pilgrimage into the culture I love.
In Japan, there’s a phrase for this: ichi-go ichi-e, the idea of treasuring a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, exactly as it is, in the present moment. As I head towards the Former Sports Hub Library, that idea crystallises into something tangible. I am greeted by two towering Demon Slayer inflatables – Tanjiro Kamado and Nezuko Kamado – and instantly, I’m snap-ready.
A faint, nostalgic hum of J-pop starts playing in my head, with LiSA’s ‘Gurenge’ (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba OP) on loop. “Two down, and four more to go,” I think as I make my way to The Lawn at Kallang Wave Mall, where other cool inflatables wait.
Morning combat & souvenir shopping
I dive straight into the highlight of the day: the Demon Slayer: Total Concentration Exhibition. This is a must-visit as the global anime phenomenon makes its one and only Southeast Asian stop in 2026. Spanning two floors and more than 21,000 sqft, it’s the first Demon Slayer exhibition ever held in Singapore.
Since tickets aren’t sold on site, I grabbed mine early on Klook and admission is a breeze. Inside, I take my time soaking it all in. Life-sized sets, dynamic visuals, original illustrations, and multi-sensory experiences bring the movie’s most unforgettable scenes to life.
It’s a cool experience to be “part” of the crew of demon hunters. Dressed in my favourite Demon Slayer Corps uniform, I move through iconic scenes, from Mount Fujikasane and the Demon Slayer Headquarters, to the House of Demons, Battle of Mount Natagumo, Mugen Train and Kimetsu Academy, posing as part of the demon-hunting crew along the way.
Every turn feels cinematic. Every display? Peak nostalgia. For a moment, it feels like I’ve stepped into the Taisho era for a "breathing technique" masterclass. Absolute vibes.
Of course, I won’t be leaving without some souvenirs from the exhibition. The 1,000 sqft merchandise store showcases limited-edition, Singapore-exclusive chibi characters created by Ufotable and inspired by beloved local landmarks.
Picture Tanjiro visiting the Merlion and Zenitsu posing in front of Marina Bay Sands — these exclusive designs are only available at this exhibition. There’s also a wide selection of apparel and collectibles, with prices starting from $6.90.
The Singapore-exclusive chibi characters also feature in the photo booth next to the merch store. For $10, I receive two photostrips and can choose from any of the four Demon Slayer-themed frames.
With my Demon Slayer haul secured, it’s time to switch fandoms. My next stop is the Pokémon Center SINGAPORE Pop-up store at the Atrium. I pick up some adorable Lunar New Year Pikachu plushies and browse through a treasure trove of Pokémon merch for my friends and family.
I even got hands-on with the new video game Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Gotta catch the fun before it disappears.
Mid-day power up: A taste of Japan
After all that excitement, it’s time to refuel. Lunch is at Kei Kaisendon, where I go for a Sashimi Power Bowl. Fresh, vibrant and incredibly satisfying — every bite a burst of umami.
If I were here with my family, I’d definitely add sides like the Salmon Mentai Sushi and Unagi Strips to share. Every bowl here is crafted with the freshest seafood and premium ingredients, served over vinegared rice and paired with wasabi, soy sauce, or house-made sauces for that punchy umami taste.
The afternoon "regeneration"
No Japanese-inspired day is complete without an onsen session, so I head straight to Yunomori Onsen & Spa. Cosplay off, yukata on — instant relaxation mode activated.
To really reset, I ease into contrast hydrotherapy, alternating between the soothing bubbling of the Bubble Bath to release tension and the icy Cold Plunge for that ultimate 'Hashira-level' recovery. It’s the perfect combo for unwinding after a long day of activities.
The warm baths help to detoxify and relax the body, prepping it for my favourite part, the signature Thai massage. After hours of walking and exploring, this is pure bliss.
The "grand finale" toast
To end the day on a high note, I head for dinner at Blue Fern Grill & Sake, where contemporary Japanese fusion cuisine — think artisanal sushi tapas — meets bold grill flavours.
I start with three handrolls, Aburi Salmon Mentai, California and Spicy Maguro, before treating myself to a sirloin set. Paired with selections from their thoughtfully curated sake list, it’s the perfect finale.
The setting feels intimate enough for a quiet dinner, but also works well for gatherings, accommodating up to 65 guests indoors and up to 100 including the pet-friendly outdoor seating.
It’s rare to find a day that blends high-energy fandom, comforting Japanese flavours and deep relaxation so seamlessly. From immersive anime moments and limited-edition finds to a satisfying sashimi lunch and a deeply calming onsen soak, every part of the day feels like it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly, fully and in the present. This is ichi-go ichi-e in action, a reminder that some experiences are special precisely because they can’t be repeated.
Whether you’re planning a family outing or indulging your inner Japanophile, this is one itinerary that turns an ordinary day out into an unforgettable escape.
Plan your Japanese-inspired day out at Kallang Wave Mall. Discover what’s on and start building your itinerary at https://linktr.ee/kallangwavemall.
Presented by Kallang Wave Mall
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