By Deogratias Mmana:
Japanese Embassy in Lilongwe over the weekend celebrated 15 years of establishment of the embassy in the country and 60 years of diplomatic ties with Malawi through a display of its culture and history.
The national day took place on Saturday in Lilongwe where both Malawians and nationals from other countries sampled the culture of that country.
Japanese Deputy Head of Mission Seiji Tashiro said while the national day gave people an opportunity to learn about the Japanese culture, the day also came as a celebration for the 15 years of establishment of the embassy in Malawi and an eve for 60 years of diplomatic ties with Malawi.
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“This is the first time the embassy has organised the national day since it was established in 2008. So, it is a kind of an anniversary. And we also have 60 years anniversary of diplomatic ties between Japan and Malawi; so, this is an eve of the 60 years of anniversary,” Tashiro said.
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Some of the displays that spiced up the celebration included Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, kendama tricks, Takoyaki (street food), koinobori, origami (folding paper into shape) and yukata experience (traditional outfit).
There was also karate, kendo, judo, awaodor dance and kampango fish cutting in the Japanese way.
Tashiro said it was necessary for the public to appreciate the culture and history of Japan as the country is part of the globe.
During the event, Japanese Ambassador to Malawi Yoichi Oya gave a Kendo demonstration.
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One patron, Godfrey Wyson, said he was impressed with Kendo and the cutting of kampango.
Kendo is a Japanese form of fencing with two handed bamboo swords originally developed as a safe form of sword training for samurai.
