The event attracted large numbers of Vietnamese people living in Japan, along with Japanese residents and international visitors.
The festival was organised by the Global Viet Nam–Japan Cultural Promotion Organisation (VJCP), under the auspices of the Consulate General of Viet Nam in Osaka, the Osaka Prefectural Government, and the Sakai City Government. Although Typhoon Champi brought occasional rain, the activities went ahead with strong participation from residents and visitors alike.
Following the introduction of delegates and a report on the journey of community-building, a solemn flag-raising ceremony was held for both countries. One of the highlights was singer Anh Tu joining 34 overseas Vietnamese, representing Viet Nam's 34 provinces and cities following the administrative merger, in singing the Vietnamese national anthem.
At the festival, the organising committee launched a campaign encouraging Vietnamese communities worldwide to celebrate Viet Nam Culture Day on November 24. Under the direction of Huy Lio, the festival's chief director and strategic adviser to the Global Viet Nam–Japan Cultural Promotion Organisation, delegates and artists took part in a ceremony in which they placed their hands on a bronze drum symbol.
With the message “Every Vietnamese living abroad is a cultural ambassador”, the organisers called on everyone to celebrate Viet Nam Culture Day on November 24 by introducing, promoting, and sharing Vietnamese culture.
The organisers also presented a promotional video showcasing Phu Tho, the ancestral homeland of the Vietnamese people, and opened the exhibition entitled “Viet Nam – An Era of Rising”. A 2.5-metre-high wooden map was the exhibition's centrepiece, marking the 2025 reorganisation of provincial-level administrative units.
Over the two days, audiences enjoyed performances by the Japanese drum group TRAinnovation, Mayumi, Viet Nam Kun, the Sao Mai dance troupe, and the VJCP Art Centre, among others.
The programme also featured artists Anh Tu, Trinh Thang Binh, LyLy, Cao Phu Quy, Swhite, Shinobi Swag, HawkX, and NINE-X Band. They brought Vietnamese music to the Vietnamese community in Japan while engaging with international audiences.
Alongside activities promoting cultural exchange, community connections and trade and investment cooperation between Viet Nam and Japan, the organisers announced and presented the inaugural “Viet Nam Heart Star” awards this year. The awards went to four overseas Vietnamese living, studying, and working in Japan who have actively promoted Vietnamese culture and the country's people and image. Their contributions help foster a positive image of the Vietnamese community as compassionate, responsible, well-integrated, and law-abiding, with a commitment to contributing to their host society.
According to Do Hai Khoi, head of the organising committee, the festival's success was made possible not only through the support of relevant agencies, organisations, and sponsors but also through the substantial contributions of volunteers. These included young Vietnamese people living, studying, and working in Japan who helped run activities throughout the event.
The 2026 Viet Nam Heart Festival was more than an opportunity to enjoy artistic performances; it also created a space for cultural exchange and strengthened connections among the Vietnamese community in Japan. Through music and cultural activities, the event helped spread love for the homeland, preserve national identity, and deepen ties among Vietnamese people living abroad.
