This festival marks a significant milestone as it is the first of its kind to be organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, in partnership with the Embassy of Vietnam in Japan, the authorities of Saitama Prefecture, and various associations and businesses from both countries.
The highlight of the festival will be a captivating re-enactment of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations of Vietnamese people living in Japan. Visitors can expect to see star-shaped lanterns, lion dances, and indulge in delicious moon cakes.
Additionally, over 60 stalls will be set up to showcase and promote the inimitable Vietnamese cuisine, which has become an integral part of Japanese food culture. Visitors can relish in popular dishes such as phở (noodles), bánh mì (baguette), bún (vermicelli), nem cuốn (spring rolls), bánh xèo (pancakes), and coffee.
In addition, there will be folk games like shuttlecock and tug-of-war, as well as traditional art performances including Chầu văn (Vietnamese ritual singing), making their debut at the Vietnam Festival this year.
Renowned Vietnamese singers, namely Hong Nhung, Quang Dung, and Ngo Kien Huy, will grace the event with their dazzling performances. Vietnamese rock band KURROCK, based in Japan, will also mesmerize the audience with their musical talent.
According to Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan, Pham Quang Hieu, this festival aims to provide Japanese people with an immersive experience of Vietnamese culture through its cuisine, music, and traditional arts. It is hoped that this event will deepen the mutual understanding and strengthen the ties between the two countries, showcasing both the beauty of Vietnam and the warmth of its people.
Anticipated to attract thousands of visitors, the Vietnam Festival “Xin chào! Saitama” (Hello! Saitama) is poised to be a remarkable occasion.
Ancient house in Ma May
NDO – Ma May, a rare quarter that still retains several old houses, has created one of the characteristics of Hanoi. Hanoi’s streets are becoming increasingly crowded and traditional features can sometimes be hidden behind modern life. But if one takes the time to relax and look around, the ancient features begin to reveal themselves.
A Glimpse of Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Recently, the Management Board of Hanoi’s Old Quarter cooperated with the city of Toulouse to open an exhibition named “Ke cho – Pho co” (City Dwellers – Old Quarter) at Hanoi’s Old Quarter Cultural Exchange Centre to depict the formation and development of Hanoi’s Old Quarter in the past 1000 years.