A 'Japanese Cultural Night' marking the beginning of the Reiwa Era in Japan, was celebrated Friday by the embassy of Japan in Qatar, in co-operation with Lagoona Mall and Fifty One East.
The celebration, at Lagoona Mall's North Court Lobby, featured a kimono fashion show, and an ikebana (the art of Japanese flower arrangement) and kendo (the way of the sword) demonstrations, as well as Japanese calligraphy.
Reiwa refers to the current era of Japan, which began on May 1, 2019 when Emperor Naruhito was enthroned as the 126th emperor of Japan.
In his opening speech, Japanese ambassador Kazuo Sunaga said Reiwa is interpreted as "beautiful" (rei) and "harmony" (wa).
According to the ambassador, the celebration, is timely because in two weeks Japan, along with the international community, will witness the emperor's enthronement on October 22.
Among the highlights of the celebration is a kimono fashion show by the Doha Kimono Club. Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment adorned by many patterns and designs, which differ depending on the occasion and rank.
The kimonos presented during the show are considered as the most prestigious kimonos for unmarried ladies worn only in special occasions, such as wedding ceremonies.
The fashion show was followed by an ikebana presentation by Kumiko Sugiyama and a kendo demonstration by Master Ryo Arai and the Doha Kendo Club.
Also, Wakako Kimura and Yayoi Kodama were at the event to craft names of guests and visitors in Japanese calligraphy.
Reiwa refers to the current era of Japan, which began on May 1, 2019 when Emperor Naruhito was enthroned as the 126th emperor of Japan.
In his opening speech, Japanese ambassador Kazuo Sunaga said Reiwa is interpreted as "beautiful" (rei) and "harmony" (wa).
Japanese ambassador Kazuo Sunaga delivering his opening speech
A moment from the Kendo demonstration
According to the ambassador, the celebration, is timely because in two weeks Japan, along with the international community, will witness the emperor's enthronement on October 22.
Among the highlights of the celebration is a kimono fashion show by the Doha Kimono Club. Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment adorned by many patterns and designs, which differ depending on the occasion and rank.
The kimonos presented during the show are considered as the most prestigious kimonos for unmarried ladies worn only in special occasions, such as wedding ceremonies.
The fashion show was followed by an ikebana presentation by Kumiko Sugiyama and a kendo demonstration by Master Ryo Arai and the Doha Kendo Club.
Also, Wakako Kimura and Yayoi Kodama were at the event to craft names of guests and visitors in Japanese calligraphy.
