Vietnam - Japan Cultural Exchange: A Bridge of Friendship and Sustainable Development

In the context of globalization and current integration trends, cultural exchange between countries is not only an opportunity for mutual understanding but also an important foundation for building sustainable relationships.

Especially for the younger generation, exposure to other cultures helps them learn and develop new ways of thinking. Tra Vinh University affirms its role in promoting cultural exchange through organizing the Vietnam - Japan Cultural Exchange Program in Tra Vinh province, an event of special significance in spreading Japanese cultural values to the locality.

Traditional costumes of Vietnam and Japan.

The first program was held in 2016 with the permission of Tra Vinh Provincial People's Committee, in coordination with the Vietnam - Japan Friendship Association of Tra Vinh Province and Tra Vinh Provincial Youth Union. This event created a rich exchange space, where the cultural quintessence of Vietnam and Japan were harmoniously combined through unique artistic activities.

The performances of traditional costumes of the two countries created a colorful collection, attracting the attention of many visitors. Folk games such as bamboo dancing, monkey bridge walking, and playing chopsticks and balls… not only brought joy but also reminded people of their childhood memories, deepening their love for their homeland.

In addition, Tra Vinh's traditional handicraft villages such as weaving, pounding flat rice, and sculpture are also vividly recreated in the program, giving visitors from Japan the opportunity to experience the unique Japanese art of origami, which is taught by artisans, extremely attractive to Vietnamese viewers.

In particular, the act of lining up in an orderly manner to enjoy sushi offers local people valuable lessons about good qualities such as perseverance and discipline from Japanese culture.

Following the success of the first program, in 2018, the second Vietnam - Japan Cultural Exchange Program was held on a larger scale, to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This event not only affirmed the role of Tra Vinh University in promoting international cultural exchange but also emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy in building a sustainable relationship between Vietnam and Japan.

Delegates attending the Vietnam - Japan Cultural Exchange Festival (2nd time).

The second program was elaborately invested with many unique cultural spaces from Japan such as Torii Gate, Mt. Fuji mural, peach and apricot garden, flower arrangement art (Ikebana), and handmade painting exhibition on the theme of the country and people of Vietnam and Japan.

Locals had the opportunity to enjoy sushi and tempura prepared by professional chefs. In particular, the yosakoi dance performance – a famous Japanese street dance – received enthusiastic cheers from the audience.

Besides, Vietnam also brought impressive performances such as: Performance of a 32-ton stone instrument by record holder Truong Dinh Chieu and many special performances imbued with Vietnamese culture.

2023 marks an important milestone when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs approved the project to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Japan.

Within this framework, Tra Vinh University continues to take on the role of hosting the third Cultural Exchange Program with the largest scale ever. Mr. Ono Masuo - Consul General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City - and many leaders of Tra Vinh province attended the event.

Leaders of Tra Vinh province and the Japanese Consulate performed the opening ceremony of the program.

The presence of Mr. Ono Masuo - Consul General of Japan at the opening ceremony demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening the friendship between the two countries in Tra Vinh. He also emphasized the great role of culture in building the foundation of connection between the two peoples.

Delegates planted souvenir trees in Tra Vinh province.

This program is not only a festival but also an opportunity to strengthen the friendship between the two countries through meaningful activities such as Japanese sword dancing or wearing kimono to take souvenir photos. The colorful display space and typical cultural symbols have created a memorable experience for students and the local community.

The series of Vietnam - Japan cultural exchange events at Tra Vinh University not only contributed to spreading the good values of Japanese culture but also created a bridge connecting the local community with noble human values such as perseverance and responsibility. This is a solid foundation for building a long-term friendship between the two countries as well as opening up many opportunities for cooperation in the future.

Special cultural exchange program between Vietnam - Japan.

It is hoped that the program will continue to be maintained and expanded so that more and more cultural values from different countries can spread into the local community, contributing to building a diverse society while still preserving the distinct identity of each culture.

Ha An

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/giao-luu-van-hoa-viet-nhat-cau-noi-tinh-huu-nghi-va-phat-trien-ben-vung-ar905288.html