I had the incredible opportunity to perform at the Onawa Asobi event at the Shibari Lounge in Antwerp with my partner Cheri, and I’m still filled with excitement! It was my first time in this vibrant city, and sharing this experience with my partner—who adores Antwerp—made it even more unforgettable. Performing at such a renowned venue was a dream come true, and I’m so grateful for the experience.
When I got the invitation to perform at the Onawa Asobi event, I was very excited and thrilled. I had previously visited Onawa Asobi event in Tokyo, and the Shibari Lounge is a haven for rope enthusiasts, so the thought of showcasing our work there felt like a huge honor. My partner and I poured our hearts into preparing, and the performance itself was pure magic. I was bit nervous before the performance, but everything went perfectly. The energy in the room was electric, with the audience so supportive and engaged. Tying together in that space, surrounded by people who share our passion for shibari, was an exhilarating experience. We had so much fun exploring the flow of the ropes and the connection we share—it was a moment of pure joy and excitement.
The Shibari Lounge itself is an absolute gem. The venue is beautifully designed, with a warm, intimate vibe that makes you feel right at home. The organizers and staff were incredible—kind, professional, and so dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for everyone. Their hard work made the event seamless, and I can’t thank them enough for their hospitality. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and supported, which made performing there even more special.
One of the highlights of the trip was meeting so many amazing people in the rope community. The Onawa Asobi event brought together folks from all over, each with their own unique approach to shibari. We spent hours watching performances, chatting and bonding over our love for rope. There’s something so special about connecting with others who understand the artistry and emotional depth of shibari. Those performances, conversations and connections left me feeling inspired and grateful to be part of this incredible community.
Antwerp itself was a revelation. As a first-time visitor, I was blown away by the city’s charm—its stunning architecture, cozy restaurants, and vibrant energy. Exploring the streets with my partner, who considers Antwerp one of her favorite cities, made the trip even more meaningful. We wandered through the historic center and soaked in the beauty of a city that feels both timeless and alive. Knowing how much Antwerp means to my partner added an extra layer of magic to every moment we spent there. Also the chocolate covered waffles were very delicious 😋.
This trip was everything I could have hoped for and more. Performing at the Shibari Lounge, connecting with the rope community, and exploring Antwerp with my partner created memories I’ll cherish forever. I’m so thankful to the Yoi Yoshida and the local Onawa Asobi organizers, the Shibari Lounge staff, and everyone who made this experience possible. It was a weekend filled with love, creativity, and connection, and I’m already looking forward to the next opportunity to visit Onawa Asobi either in Antwerp or in Tokyo.
