The 21st Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange: A meeting of cultural identities
DNO- The 21st Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange, held from December 26 to 28, once again provides a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, helping preserve and promote traditional values in contemporary life.
A continuing journey
Launched in 2003, the Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange has become a hallmark annual event, strengthening ties between Hoi An and Japanese partners and reaffirming Hoi An’s identity as a dynamic heritage city rooted in tradition.
A key highlight of the 21st edition was Hoi An’s integration into the expanded city of Da Nang, opening new opportunities for cultural and tourism cooperation.
According to Truong Thi Ngoc Cam, Acting Deputy Director of the Hoi An World Cultural Heritage Conservation Centre, the 21st Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange continues to blend traditional values with contemporary creativity.
Over three days, the ancient town organised a range of activities, including Japanese doll exhibitions, taiko drum performances, street art exchanges and traditional arts.
A highlight was the reenactments of the historic procession of Princess Ngoc Hoa and Japanese merchant Araki Sotaro, underscoring the long-standing Vietnam - Japan relationship. Contemporary elements such as cosplay, calligraphy and tea ceremonies further broaden the festival’s appeal.
Strengthening the Hoi An - Japan bond
Alongside performances, cultural and tourism exhibitions on Vietnam - Japan exchange were held at An Hoi Sculpture Garden, the Japanese Culture Exhibition House, the Museum of Trade Ceramics and other heritage sites.
Visitors could join experiential activities such as bonsai exchanges, themed tours, photo exhibitions and ceramic displays, while food stalls, folk games and hands-on experiences create a lively, interactive festival atmosphere.
Ms. Truong Thi Ngoc Cam said the Hoi An - Japan Cultural Exchange continues to bridge heritage and contemporary life within Da Nang’s new urban framework, promoting sustainable cooperation and projecting Hoi An as a friendly, creative destination.
With at least 60% of Japanese visitors to Vietnam including Hoi An in their itineraries, the city has intensified tourism promotion in Japan through festivals and cultural programmes. As part of Da Nang, which maintains strong investment ties with Japanese partners, Hoi An is well positioned to further attract the Japanese market and strengthen long-standing bilateral ties.