Hayy Matsuri Festival Celebrates 70 Years of Saudi-Japanese Relations

Art Jameel has launched the second edition of Hayy Matsuri, a cultural festival celebrating 70 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Saudi Arabia. Running until January 11, the festival features performances, workshops, and an open cultural market, drawing significant public interest and aiming to foster cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Art Jameel, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan in Jeddah and Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, has inaugurated the second edition of Hayy Matsuri, a cultural festival running until January 11 at Hayy Jameel. This festival celebrates the fusion of Japanese and Saudi traditions, arts, and innovations, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The event will showcase performances by the Japanese music project Electronicos Fantasticos! and sound artist Daisuke Tanabe, both making their debut in Saudi Arabia, alongside Saudi artists exploring themes of memory through audiovisual performances.

The festival has attracted considerable public interest, with over 3,000 visitors on its opening day. Antonia Carver, director of Art Jameel, emphasized the significance of this event, stating, “Through the Jameel family’s great history of philanthropy and long-standing relationship with Japan through ALJ Motors and Toyota, we have a special cultural connection here to explore through Hayy Matsuri.” With an enthusiastic response from the public, the festival aims to foster cultural exchanges between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

Daisuke Yamamoto, the consul general of Japan in Jeddah, highlighted the festival’s role in reinforcing Saudi-Japanese ties, expressing excitement about the continued cooperation between the two cultures. He stated that Hayy Matsuri introduces diverse forms of Japanese culture to Saudi society, with an expectation of even greater attendance compared to last year’s 5,000 visitors. As the festival includes various workshops and performances, visitors are invited to participate in activities such as traditional tea ceremonies and Japanese arts like Ikebana and origami, alongside modern expressions like manga drawing and cosplay competitions.

In addition, the open cultural market features over 30 vendors, presenting a blend of local and Japanese creativity. A particular focus is on authentic Japanese matcha, with Taiyo Matcha founders striving to elevate matcha standards in Saudi Arabia. Workshops such as “Manga Drawing: The Hero’s Story” allow participants to immerse themselves in Japanese art. Furthermore, Alliance Française Saudi Arabia collaborates on the festival, showcasing the interconnectedness of French and Japanese cultures through film screenings and workshops, highlighting France’s role in the global cultural landscape.

The Hayy Matsuri festival serves as a significant cultural event, symbolizing the growing relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia as they celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations. The festival integrates both countries’ traditional arts and modern innovations through performances, workshops, and markets that encourage community participation. This cultural exchange aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to broaden the Kingdom’s cultural openness and engagement with global cultures.

In summary, the Hayy Matsuri cultural festival stands as a testament to the flourishing diplomatic and cultural ties between Japan and Saudi Arabia. With innovative performances, workshops, and an emphasis on tradition, the event fosters meaningful exchanges and celebrates shared creativity. The festival not only highlights the significance of cultural collaboration but also engages the public in immersive experiences that enhance understanding and appreciation of both cultures.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com