VietNam
The “Hội An - Japan Cultural Exchange” is held annually in August in Hội An city to strengthen the friendly relationship and expand cooperation between Hội An and Japan, as well as promote Hội An's World Cultural Heritage to domestic and international friends.
With the common aim of promoting the traditional exchange relationship from hundreds of years ago; the 20th Hội An - Japan Cultural Exchange further demonstrates the solidarity, close and lasting friendship between the two countries for the future of Hội An city, Vietnam and Japan.
The 20th Hội An - Japan Cultural Exchange will be held from August 2 to 4, 2024 in Hội An Ancient Town and Hội An Park. In addition to the cultural, artistic, sports activities that have affirmed their values in previous years; this year's event will also feature a variety of rich and unique activities, such as the exhibitions “Japanese dolls” at the Japanese Culture Gallery (6 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai street) and “Dialogue with Ukiyo-E paintings” at 39 Nguyễn Thái Học street. They will be open from July 27 to August 4, allowing visitors to see the distinct hues of traditional culture combined with aesthetics and modern inspirations to create creative masterpieces.
The Opening Ceremony will take place at 7:30 p.m. on August 2 in An Hội Sculpture Garden with the participation of many delegations, organizations and individuals from Japan and Hội An, Quảng Nam. This is an opportunity to reflect on the event's successes throughout the years and work together to attain sustainable values in the future. In particular, the Opening Ceremony will feature performances by traditional Japanese art troupes, including the Kagura dance team; as well as famous singers such as Hiền Thục, Phạm Đình Thái Ngân; Kolme and Anirock music groups from Japan; along with traditional performances by Hội An art troupe, etc. which will undoubtedly bring impressive emotions to the attendees.
On this occasion, Hội An city will hold the Inauguration Ceremony of the Japanese Covered Bridge Restoration Project at 4:30 p.m. on August 3. The Japanese Covered Bridge in Hội An is a symbolic relic and a profound testament to Japan's presence and cultural exchange in this city. After many years of restoration and maintenance, and with the consultation of many Japanese and Vietnamese experts, the Japanese Covered Bridge is now open to the public.
The “Re-enactment of the Wedding procession of Princess Ngọc Hoa and merchant Araki Sotaro” at 4:00 p.m. on August 2 and 4 is expected to attract a large number of tourists to join the procession on the Goshuinsen ship parading through the streets of Hội An Ancient Town.
Sports activities are also fascinating on this occasion, including the Boat race “Hội An, Japan and tourists”; the Football exchange between Hội An children and Kawasaki Frontale Club (2021 J-League Champion); Baseball, Boxing and ProWrestling Exchange; Stick-pushing game and sack race; etc.
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In addition, there are a series of unique activities, demonstrating the beauty of traditional Japanese culture, such as Picture drawing “Hội An children with Japanese culture”, the Premiere of the Opera “Princess Anio”, Japanese Calligraphy, Japanese Tea Ceremony, Experience program “Hizen Ceramics - The Storytelling of Patterns”, Farmers market, Japanese culinary space, Japanese tourism promotion and accessory booths, check-in points, etc. all will bring a truly bustling, joyful festival season with many experiences for all participants.
Hội An is a land with unique historical values, displaying numerous cultural interactions, especially during its period as an international commercial port. Japanese merchants came and left cultural traces in Hội An, establishing a strong connection between Hội An, Vietnam and Japan that continues to this day.
The “Hội An - Japan Cultural Exchange” has been held for the 20th occasion, demonstrating the great significance of cooperation and the special diplomatic relationship between Hội An and Japanese organizations and individuals. It is also an opportunity to introduce and honor traditional culture, enhance mutual understanding, and affirm the strong relationship between the two countries; at the same time, attract tourists to visit Hội An, a city with a long history, where international cultures converge and absorb while preserving the beauty of local traditions.
Currently, Hội An has been voted one of the world's most favorite cities in 2024 and a UNESCO Creative City. As a result, the 20th Hội An - Japan Cultural Exchange is also an opportunity to introduce and spread the city's essential values to a wider public.
Hội An Center for Culture, Sports, Radio and Television; Hội An city
