A vibrant celebration of Japanese culture kicked off Thursday at Hyatt Plaza, marking the start of a week-long event designed to foster cultural understanding and strengthen ties between Qatar and Japan.
The event, officially opened by Japanese ambassador Satoshi Maeda, features a diverse range of activities, from traditional arts and crafts workshops to live painting demonstrations, until November 14.
“This event is a wonderful opportunity to deepen the understanding of the Japanese culture, traditions, and artistry among the good people of Qatar. In Japan, we cherish our traditional culture while embracing the future and its opportunities through innovation and technology,” he said.
Maeda underlined the various activities planned for the week, including origami and calligraphy workshops, alongside live painting demonstrations and Mizuhiki workshops by visiting Japanese artists.
A karate demonstration by students further enriched the opening day’s programme, witnessed by mall officials led by Qatar Central Markets Company CEO Feroz Moideen, other embassy officials, and guests.
“Japan, a land of rich history, artistic brilliance, and technological innovation, has always captivated the world,” Moideen said in his speech, highlighting the opportunity for the Qatari community to immerse itself in the beauty of Japanese culture.
He thanked the ambassador for his presence and for strengthening the bonds between the two nations. He also expressed his appreciation to sponsors Homes R Us and Daiso, and to the organisers of the Japanese Cultural Week, saying: “We hope this event will inspire cultural understanding, friendship, and mutual respect”.
Taking place until November 14, the event offers Qatar residents and visitors, especially families and children, a chance to experience and get a glimpse of Japan’s rich culture.
Building on the success of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2022 and Expo 2023 Doha, Qatar and Japan continue to expand their cultural exchange programmes to further strengthen bilateral ties. This includes broadening outreach beyond previous initiatives such as school and shopping mall performances and lectures.
