The Gozo Japan Friendship event opened at the Citadel on Friday, and although the weather was not perfect, it did not dampen the spirits and the enjoyment of those who attended the different activities.

Gozo Minister Dr Justyne Caruana visited the Citadel on Friday, where she joined in the traditional Tea Ceremony and was dressed in a traditional Kimono.

Dr Caruana said this weekend of Japanese cultural activities provides an experience “to know each other, learn from each other and work together.”Ms Akiko Miyahara – the festival organiser, explained that the aim of this special event is to make the public more familiar with Japanese culture.

Among the main attractions will be a variety of typical and traditional Japanese food and drink, information on the traditional clothing of Japan – the kimono, and old rituals, such as the Tea Ceremony.

Thousands of lanterns light up Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, in southern Japan every autumn for the Jinko-shiki Festival, representing – the light of the ancient capital.

This tradition is also now seen in Gozo, with lanterns illuminating the ancient Gozo Citadel.

This unique event of culture fusions is taking place with the full collaboration of the Ministry for Gozo.

Programme at the culture centre

Saturday 2nd November – 11am-10pm Seminar about the Kimono / Tea Ceremony

Sunday 3rd November 11am-10pm Kintsugi work shop / Kokedama (moss ball) arrangement workshop

Programme at the Cittadella Ditch

Saturday 2nd November – 11:00am-10pm

Sunday 3rd November – 11:00am-10pm

Food booths

Sushi/ Ramen/Japanese sweets/ snacks Japanese Sake/ Japanese Whisky

At the stage

Live cinema performance “Usagi Ningen”

Local bands.

Photographs: MGOZ/Terry Camilleri

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