The Sakura Celebration: Japan’s 2015 Festival of Cherry Blossoms

By
Administrator
-
0
24

Japanese Embassy in Vietnam Hosts the 2015 Cherry Blossom Festival in Hanoi

On April 11-12, 2015, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi transformed into a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture as the Japanese Embassy in Vietnam, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, presented the annual Cherry Blossom Festival. This year’s festival offered a diverse range of cultural activities, performances, and exhibitions, providing a unique opportunity for the Vietnamese people to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Japan.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Yushita Hiroyuki, the former Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam and Co-Head of the festival’s management board, highlighted that the festival goes beyond the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms. It serves as a cultural bridge, offering a deeper understanding of Japan’s traditional cultural characteristics, earning its nickname, “the Land of the Rising Sun.”
The festival featured a captivating array of cultural performances, including the energetic Yosakoi traditional dance, the intense Sumo wrestling, the graceful Kendo and Aikido martial arts displays, and the creative Cosplay disguise. Artists from both countries showcased their talents, enchanting the audience with the beauty of their respective traditions.

In addition to the performances, the festival also offered a glimpse into Japan’s folk games and cuisine. The stalls introducing Japanese culinary delights and providing consultancy on studying in Japan attracted much attention from visitors eager to learn more about the country.

According to Prof. Vu Khac Liem, Chairman of the Vietnam – Japan Cultural Exchange Association and Co-Head of the Festival’s management board, one of the highlights of this year’s festival was its venue—the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. This historic setting provided a unique opportunity for Japanese visitors to delve into the rich culture and history of Vietnam, fostering a deeper cultural exchange between the two nations.
The Cherry Blossom Festival has become an anticipated annual event since its inception in 2007, strengthening the bond between Vietnam and Japan. It serves as a testament to the beauty of cultural diversity and the power of traditions to bring people together.
Story: Ngan Ha – Photos: Viet Cuong
Hanoians capture memories near cherry blossom branches, a gift from Japan to Vietnam.
The Maika dance troupe from Japan graces the stage with their energetic Yosakoi performance.
Japanese martial arts performers showcase their skills and discipline.
A variety of Japanese cultural activities engage festival-goers.
Vietnamese dancers gracefully perform Japanese traditional dances, a beautiful cultural fusion.
The festival provides a platform for young Vietnamese to participate in and appreciate Japanese cultural activities.
Dr. Vu Khac Liem, Chairman of the Vietnam – Japan Cultural Exchange Association, delivers an inspiring opening speech.
Young Vietnamese and Japanese proudly don traditional costumes, a symbol of cultural appreciation.
The Cherry Blossom Festival attracts a large crowd, bringing people together in celebration.
Cherry saplings, a gift from Japan, will find their new home in Ha Giang Province.
Hanoians cherish the opportunity to pose with the iconic cherry blossoms.
Sumo wrestlers showcase their strength and technique, captivating the audience.
Junko Kitagawwa from Tokyo prepares to fly a Japanese traditional kite at the historic citadel.
Attendees enthusiastically participate in Japanese folk games, embracing the cultural experience.
Japanese folk games bring people together in a joyful atmosphere.
Japanese attendees show their support for the cultural exchange, strengthening the Vietnam-Japan bond.
Representatives from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Japanese Embassy officially open the festival.
The festival commences with a palanquin procession, a traditional Japanese custom.
The Maika dance troupe captivates the audience with their energetic and colorful Yosakoi performance.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR