The festival will begin with a photo exhibition on the architecture of Hoi An and Kyoto ancient towns which will display photos featuring Vietnamese people 20 years after the end of the war taken by Japanese photographer Oishi Yoshino, a passionate activist in promoting Vietnam-Japan friendship.

The opening ceremony slated for August 11 at the Hoai River square will bring visitors a fashion show of Hoi An and Kimono costumes and dances by Vietnamese and Japanese artists.

During the festival, other cultural activities will be launched such as displays of the Japanese tea ceremony, calligraphy, Vietnamese folk games and  a painting exhibition showing the ancient towns of Japan and Hoi An in Vietnam by Japanese painter Goto.