At a press conference on Friday, Le Truong Duy, deputy director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of External Relations, highlighted the significance of the annual Japan Vietnam Festival (JVF). Over its nine editions, JVF has fostered cultural exchanges and promoted trade, investment, and tourism between the two nations, strengthening their friendship and mutual understanding.
According to Mr. Duy, the 10th JVF, taking place on March 8-9 at 23/9 Park, is a testament to the enduring and close relationship between Vietnam and Japan. It reflects the strong bond between the governments and people of both countries.
This year’s festival offers a diverse program, including cultural exchanges, trade promotions, culinary delights, and tourism exhibitions. Approximately 150 booths will be set up, showcasing the best of both cultures.
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| Le Truong Duy, deputy director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of External Relations, speaks at the press conference announcing the 10th Japan Vietnam Festival. |
Organized jointly by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee and the Japan-side JVF Organizing Committee, the event aims to bring an authentic Japanese-Vietnamese cultural experience to the heart of the city.
Attendees can immerse themselves in Japanese Awa Odori and Yosakoi dance performances, martial arts workshops, and a special sumo demonstration by Japanese athletes. A Japanese Shodo calligraphy workshop will offer a glimpse into the beauty of Japanese artistry.
A grand yukata and cosplay parade will add to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. The two-day event will also feature a Bon Odori dance event for children from both countries, a collaboration between Japanese and Vietnamese artists, and a performance by Vietnamese pop sensation Quang Hung MasterD.
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| Vietnamese students wearing Japanese traditional costumes at the 8th Japan Vietnam Festival in 2023. |
The festival will culminate in a spectacular show on the evening of March 9, featuring DJ RINOKA, an 8-year-old Guinness World Record holder as the world’s youngest club DJ (female) at the age of 6 years and 155 days old.
The 10th JVF will also celebrate Vietnamese culture, with traditional games and a free áo dài (Vietnamese traditional costume) rental service. Beyond the main festival at 23/9 Park, there will be a Vietnam-Japan student exchange and a friendship cycling event, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.
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| Japanese Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Ono Masuo, speaks at the press conference. |
As quoted by Japanese Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Ono Masuo, the Japan Vietnam Festival has grown significantly since its inception in 2013, marking the 40th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic relations. The 9th edition in 2024 attracted over 420,000 visitors, showcasing the enthusiasm for cultural exchange between the two countries.
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