The event aimed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Japan (1973 - 2023). The opening ceremony was held on August 5.
The "Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange" event took place at An Hoi Sculpture Garden, featuring many special artistic activities, such as a performance of the scenes “The sentiments of Lord” from the opera excerpt “Princess Anio” and an aria piece entitled “Why can't I leave my child?” by renowned Vietnamese opera artists. The cultural and artistic exchange events were meticulously curated with a combination of traditional and contemporary features to demonstrate the profound friendship between the two countries.
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The Japanese tea ceremony |
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chairman of Hoi An City People's Committee Nguyen Van Son affirmed that Vietnam and Japan share long-standing relations with similarities in history, culture, traditions, and human values. In recent years, Hoi An has continuously strengthened cooperation and friendship with Japanese partners and localities in various fields, aiming to sustain and develop this profound relationship. The Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange Festival is one of the endeavours in this regard.
This year's "Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange" event holds even greater significance as part of the activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Vietnam and Japan diplomatic ties. Chairman Son expressed his hope that through this event, Hoi An City, as well as Quang Nam Province in general, will further enhance the mutual understanding and strengthen the long-standing friendship with Japanese partners, towards a brighter future.
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| The 19th Hoi An - Japanese Cultural Exchange Programme attracts a large number of visitors. |
Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio believed that the close relationship between Japan and Vietnam today is based on "understanding and empathy", which has been fostered by a long-standing historical and cultural connection between the two countries.
During the three-day programme, a wide variety of other attractive activities were held including an exhibition on documentary photos about the friendship and cooperation between Hoi An and Japan, the display of wooden sculptures and Japanese calligraphy, an exhibition and workshops on Origami paper folding, and a Yukata rental service. In addition, many booths were arranged for Japanese anime, manga, and accessories. A Hoi An farmers market and a Vietnamese-Japanese culinary space with various specialties also provided visitors with fascinating experiences.
