A taste of Asia arrives in Prague – no passport or plane ticket required

If you’re craving something to do in Prague that doesn’t feel like the same rotation of beer gardens, brunch spots, and weekend markets, then how about a trip to Asia? Think loud street food stalls, lantern-lit corners, cherry blossoms, and an energy that feels a little chaotic in a good way.

Far fetched? Not at all, and you won’t even have to book a flight to experience it. From May 15 to 17, Metropole Zličín will host Asian Days, a three-day festival that brings live performances, local traditions, and hands-on workshops together in one immersive program.

“Our goal is to create an authentic environment where visitors can feel like they are in Asia, even if just for a moment,” says Kateřina Kleslová, marketing manager of Metropole Zličín.

The festival kicks off with a ceremonial parade through the shopping center, followed by dragon and lion dances and live demonstrations of Chinese martial arts like Wushu and Kung Fu. It’s the kind of spectacle that’s hard to come by in Prague unless you’re actively seeking it out.

Throughout the weekend, Metropole Zličín’s central square will transform into a lively Asian district where visitors can soak in this unique cultural experience. Expect live music, dance performances, and several interactive stations throughout the festival where you can learn how to properly prepare matcha, try your hand at painting traditional fans, or even join a K-pop dance session. 

The event is "designed to connect traditional and modern elements of Asia and offer a program that appeals to families with children, younger visitors, and fans of gastronomy or pop culture,” Kleslová adds.

Food is another big part of the adventure. Pop-up stalls will serve Asian specialties and ingredients, with tastings that let you snack your way across the continent. 

A workshop on Sunday will teach you how to make jiaozi dumplings, and an onsite tea house will offer everything from delicate green teas to richer blends. You can also explore beauty and wellness options like Thai massages and stands selling Asian cosmetics.

What helps Asian Days stand out is that it leans into storytelling as much as spectacle. 

On Saturday, the duo “Chicas” from the reality travel competition Asia Express will talk about their experiences on the show. Czech traveler Tomáš Vejmola, known as “Tomík na cestách,” will arrive on Sunday with his iconic tuk-tuk and share stories from his journeys across half the world.

If you need an extra nudge, there’s also a loyalty club competition running from May 11 to 31. Spend over CZK 300 at Metropole Zličín, spin a wheel, and you’re guaranteed a prize. Rewards range from gift cards to a trip for two to China’s Hainan Island (so you may end up with a flight after all). Special workshops will also be available exclusively to members of the Metropole Zličín loyalty club. 

Asian Days runs daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the main program starting Friday at 4 p.m. Whether you come for the food, the performances, or just to break out of your usual Prague routine, it’s one of those rare events that might actually make a mall feel like a destination.