The 10th Hoi An-Japan cultural exchange opened in the city of Hoi An in the central province of Quang Nam on August 24, as part of activities to celebrate the 39 th anniversary of the Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties.

The event, included in the National Tourism Year for the North Central Coastal Area-Hue for 2012, started with a performance featuring traditional arts and music of both countries.

This is also a chance for Hoi An lovers in Japan to gather, contributing to strengthening the sound relations between Vietnam and Japan .

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Japanese Ambassador Yasuaki Tanizaki said through the exhibitions and performances in the event, the Japanese culture will become closer to Vietnamese friends.

Over the past years, the event is always a symbol of friendship between people of the two countries, helping consolidate the solidarity of the two nations, as well as celebrate the 40 th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties which will come next year, he said.

Le Van Giang, Chairman of the Hoi An People Committee, said since organised for the first time 10 years ago, the annual event has manifested the close relations of the two nations that share a lot of cultural similarity.

The event will run until August 26.-VNA