Japan Day featuring Japanese cuisine and culture has taken place inHanoi on June 21, to mark the 40 th anniversary of Vietnam-Japandiplomatic ties.

At the opening ceremony, JapaneseAmbassador to Vietnam Yasuaki Tanizki said Japan Day is an opportunityfor his country to promote its unique and traditional culture to Vietnamand Hanoi audiences in particular.

It is also achance to help both peoples strengthen mutual understanding, and developthe relationship between the two countries, he said.

Japanese artisans shined at the event with a range of traditionalmusic performances such as three-stringed instrument Shamisen andtraditional bamboo flute Shakuhachi, and a magic show.

Earlier, the event took place in Ho Chi Minh City on June 20. JapaneseConsul General in HCM City Hida Harumitsu affirmed that theJapan-Vietnam relationship has seen many developments over the past 40years, especially in culture, economics, politics, security and defence.

Japanese chefs introduced their traditionaldishes such as soba, tempura, sushi, Kyoto food and confectionery.Japanese artists also charmed HCM City audiences with special dances andperformances.

Deputy Director of themunicipal Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism La Quoc Khanhappreciated Japan’s organisation of this event, which, he said, hebelieves will help tighten the friendship and mutual understandingbetween the two nations.-VNA