Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange 2019: a fanfare of memorable activities

The ending ceremony of Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange 2019

This is an annual activity organised by the Hoi An People's Committee since 2003.

Speaking on the occasion, Nguyen Van Son, Vice Chairman of the Hoi An People's Committee, said that the event has provided an opportunity for Japanese friends and tourists to enjoy and experience the cultural, artistic, and spiritual links connecting Hoi An and Japan, which were formed hundreds of years ago and remain strong until today.

"After 16 successful editions, the Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange has contributed to strengthening the friendly relations between Hoi An and Japan,” Son noted.

Attending the ceremony, Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Umeda Kunio said that in the past years, Japan has made efforts to preserve the environment in Hoi An through initiatives like improving the water quality in the Chua Cau area or preserving cultural and architectural heritages.

The activities aim to cultivate a lasting friendship between the people of Vietnam and Japan in general and between Hoi An and Japanese cities in particular.

Lasting for three days from August 9-11, Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange featured diverse cultural exchanges between the two countries such as the exhibition of handicraft products and paintings, teaching Japanese calligraphy, traditional art performances, and traditional Hoi An-Japan sports competitions.

There were also memorable street activities such as Yosakoi dancing, Shakuhachi flute performances, cosplay performances, and activities like lanterns making, Origami paper folding, coconut leaf folding, as well as fairs exuding the flair of Japan and Hoi An.

In particular, the event restaged the wedding of Vietnamese Princess Ngoc Hoa and Japanese merchant Sotaro Araki on the afternoon of August 10-11 on the Hoai River.