Did you know that Mato Grosso do Sul is home to the third-largest Japanese community in Brazil? Approximately 12,000 people of Japanese descent currently live in the city of Campo Grande, preserving and celebrating Japanese traditions to this day.

It all began 117 years ago, on June 18th — now recognized as Japanese Immigration Day in Brazil—when 165 Japanese families arrived on the coast of São Paulo aboard the Kasato-Maru. In 1914, some of these immigrants, many originally from Okinawa, settled in Mato Grosso do Sul, particularly in Campo Grande, where they began working in food production and horticulture.

Discover the Central Market of Campo Grande

The Central Market of Campo Grande was inaugurated in 1924, serving as a place where these locally produced foods were sold. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the market has become a cherished meeting point for locals and visitors alike. It honors ancestral traditions while also offering space for contemporary regional artists.

The market features 25 restaurants and a large open-air market with around 100 stalls offering fresh vegetables, sweets, savory snacks, and herbs for tereré (a traditional drink from the region), among other products. Additionally, you can explore 200 stores selling handicrafts, clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and more.

Have You Tried Campo Grande's Famous Sobá?

A trip to the state capital wouldn't be complete without trying sobá, a noodle soup originally from Okinawa that has been adapted to local tastes and ingredients. Made with noodles, meat, and egg, the well-seasoned broth is the highlight of the dish. Sobá has become such a cultural staple in Campo Grande that in 2006 it was officially recognized as part of the city's intangible cultural heritage.

The dish was first sold at the Central Market to serve the Japanese immigrant community. In 2009, the market received a monument honoring sobá, created by visual artist Cleir Ávila. Today, sobá even has its own dedicated festival.

Stay Tuned for the 2025 Calendar of Events

18th Sobá Festival

Celebrating the signature dish that symbolizes Campo Grande's rich diversity and heritage, the Sobá Festival features not only plenty of sobá but also live music, cultural performances, orchid exhibitions, and much more!

When? August 6–10
Where? Central Market of Campo Grande

More information coming soon on the market's official website and Instagram.

5th Japan Festival of Mato Grosso do Sul

Get ready to indulge in over 40 traditional Japanese dishes! The event also features music, traditional dance, art, vendor fairs, and hands-on workshops that honor the enduring legacy and wisdom of Japanese culture.
When? November 14–16
Where? Shopping Bosque dos Ipês – Bosque Expo

More details will be available soon on the festival's official website and Instagram.