Japanese drum and traditional music instrument performances were highlighted at the opening ceremony of the Japanese Cultural Days organised at Lam Son Theatre in the central province of Thanh Hoa on January 9.

Jointly held by Department of International Cooperation under the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam and the provincial People’s Committee, the event aims to promote cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between people in Vietnam, particularly in Thanh Hoa, and Japan.

Five members from Bati-Holic band brought charmed Vietnamese audience with performances of Japanese musical instruments including wa-daiko drum, flute, stringed shamisen and gong.

Bati- Holic, founded in Kyoto in 2004, directs itself to a novel style even when using traditional instruments. The band is giving a two-day performance in Thanh Hoa from January 9, marking its third presence in the country.

During the Japanese Cultural Days, vi sitors can enjoy Japanese films and traditional drum and dance performances while practicing drums and dances on their own.

Thirty Japanese dolls and 50 Yukatas, the country’s traditional pieces of clothing, are also on display.-VNA