Tokyo (VNA) – The 2024 International Ikebana Charity Fair, organised by the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan in collaboration with 20 other embassies, took place in Tokyo on December 10.
The charity event raised funds for those in need and featured prominent attendees, including Yoshiko Ishiba, spouse of the Japanese Prime Minister, and Momoyo Shimatani, Chair of Ikebana Tokyo.
Thai Thu Hong, the spouse of the Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan and Chair of the 2024 Charity Fair, emphasised the fair’s significance, particularly as the two nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations.
To enrich the event with Vietnamese cultural flair, the embassy brought in artists from Vietnam to perform traditional water puppetry, offering attendees a glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural tapestry.
Hong expressed heartfelt thanks for the collaborative spirit of the embassies involved, expressing confidence that the exquisite handicrafts, traditional cuisine, and engaging cultural narratives at the fair would significantly enhance the appreciation of the cultural heritage in Vietnam, Japan, and other participating nations.
The Vietnamese booth was a highlight, showcasing an array of artisanal crafts, traditional Vietnamese garments like the Ao Dai (traditional long dress and pants), culinary spices, and unique souvenirs reflective of Vietnam's culture and heritage. The booth attracted considerable attention, with both international and local visitors expressing great enthusiasm, especially for the elegant Vietnamese tunic affectionately known as Ao Dai.
The Vietnamese Embassy organised a series of performances featuring traditional Vietnamese arts such as water puppetry, solo Dan Bau (monochord) recitals, and folk songs. These cultural showcases were met with enthusiastic applause and appreciation from both Japanese and international audiences, reinforcing the bonds of cultural appreciation and friendship./.
