The ancient town of Hoi An is set to host the 20th anniversary of the Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange, a testament to the enduring friendship and cultural ties between Vietnam and Japan. This year's event promises a vibrant celebration of shared traditions and a glimpse into the future of this special relationship.

Significance of Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange

The primary objective of this annual event is to foster deeper understanding and appreciation between the people of Hội An and Japan. By showcasing the rich cultural heritage of both nations, the festival aims to strengthen bilateral relations and promote tourism. The 20th anniversary holds particular significance as it marks two decades of successful cultural exchanges and highlights the enduring nature of this partnership.

The event is an opportunity to promote Hoi An

The program for the event in 2024

The 20th event will take place from August 2 to August 4, 2024, in the Ancient Town and Hoi An Park, featuring a variety of exciting cultural and artistic activities and experiences.

Annual activities

The festival will feature several annual activities, including: 

• - The "Hoi An, Japan, and Tourists" boat race
• - Japanese calligraphy workshops
• - Experiences in Japanese tea ceremony art
• - Tug-of-war games and sack racing
• - Re-enactment of the procession of Princess Ngoc Hoa and merchant Araki Sotaro
• - Vietnam-Japan artistic exchange program
• - Painting event titled "Hoi An Children and Japanese Culture"
• - Street art performances

Compared to previous events, the 2024 Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange has many new features and holds significant importance, marking the 20th time Hoi An has collaborated with Japanese partners to organize the event. The Japanese Embassy and Consulate General have shown great interest and provided active support in fundraising efforts and participating in the setup of booths.

The event will take place from August 2 to August 4, 2024

The new activities of this 20th event

The opening event for this year's special occasion is the exhibition "Japanese Dolls" at the Japanese Culture Exhibition Hall and the painting exhibition "Dialogue with Ukiyo-e" at No. 39, Nguyen Thai Hoc Street. The exhibitions will be open to the public from July 27 to August 4, allowing visitors to experience the unique colors of the blend between traditional culture and contemporary aesthetics, creating innovative artworks.

The opening ceremony of the event will take place at 7:30 PM on August 2 at the An Hoi Sculpture Garden, with the participation of numerous delegates, organizations, and individuals from Japan, Hoi An, and Quang Nam. This is an opportunity to reflect on the beautiful achievements after many years of organizing the event and to look forward to sustainable values in the future. Notably, the opening ceremony will feature performances by traditional Japanese art troupes, such as the Kagura snake dance, as well as famous singers from Vietnam and Japan, along with traditional performances from Hoi An, promising to create an impressive experience for attendees.

This year's program features many new and exciting elements

Additionally, this year's event will also include the inauguration of the restoration project of the Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of cultural exchange between Hoi An, Vietnam, and Japan.

Notably, the event will feature the participation of Mr. Sugi Ryotaro, former Special Ambassador of Vietnam-Japan, who has had a significant influence in Japan and initiated the annual Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange event since 2003.

From August 2 to 4 at An Hoi Sculpture Garden, the city will host regular activities such as the Hoi An Market, a Vietnamese-Japanese culinary space, tourism promotion booths, and displays of Japanese comics and accessories. There will also be a tourism space for Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, and Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, along with a booth from the Japanese Consulate General in Da Nang featuring the theme "Sounds of Summer" with wind chime making and an experience program on "Hizen Ceramics - Storytelling Patterns".

Hoi An has been voted one of the most favorite cities in the world for 2024

The Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange 2024 is a testament to the enduring friendship and cultural exchange between Vietnam and Japan. This event offers a unique opportunity to experience both countries' rich traditions and warm hospitality. If you want an unforgettable cultural experience, plan a trip to Hoi An during the event.