Feel Japan in Vietnam 2018 kicks off in HCM City

The two-day festival is treating visitors to a series of performances and activities that show the unique culture and lifestyle of Japan. They include the performance of kendama (traditional Japanese skill toy for cup-and-ball game); special performances of Ninja and Orian dancing groups from Edo Wonderland - a popular park in Tochigi prefecture; and free-of-charge consultation for beauty care following Japanese methods.

The event, jointly held by the Kilala Communication Company Limited and Song Han Tourist Company, also features tourism and other products of more than 90 popular brands from Japan.

Hirofumi Kasado, general director of Kilala Communication, said the Feel Japan in Vietnam festival has contributed to reinforcing cultural exchange and mutual friendship between the two countries.

Kilala Communication wants to offer Vietnamese people a Japanese-standard cultural festival of tourism and shopping experiences as well as unique performances, he noted.

Takahashi Ayumi, chief representative of the Japan National Tourism Organisation in Vietnam, said the event plays a good role in the promotion of culture and trade.

Over the past three years, the Japanese tourism market has grown significantly following the easing of visa requirements for Vietnamese and increasing flights between the two nations, he said. 

Feel Japan in Vietnam 2018 is expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors. Last year, it attracted close to 20,000 people and secured about VND1 billion (US$43,680) in revenue.