Speaking at the festival, Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Vu Hong Nam said it responses to Japan’s Go To Travel and Go To Eat campaigns and shows Vietnam’s support for the country’s hosting of the Tokyo Olympic Games next year.

Participants at the festival.

The two campaigns are initiatives by the Japanese Government to boost consumer spending and help the economy recover from losses caused by Covid-19.

Japanese State Minister for Foreign Affairs Eiichiro Washio said the event is an exchange opportunity for Vietnamese and Japanese peoples as travel has been restricted this year due to the pandemic.

He highlighted growing Vietnam – Japan relations across many political and socio-economic fields, mentioning Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide’s visit to Vietnam last month in his first oversea trip since taking office.

Echoing the view, Japanese State Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Hideki Miyauchi considered the festival a good chance for gastronomic exchange.

He unveiled that Japan wants to export mandarin to Vietnam and import Vietnamese dried longan and lychee.

Lasting until November 8, the festival features traditional dishes and art performances, with visitors required to wear masks and get their body temperatures checked at the entrance.

First held in 2008, the event aims to promote Vietnam’s image in Japan, boosting locals’ understanding of the country.

Various activities to be held at Culture Village throughout October

A variety of cultural activities themed ‘Forest melody’ will be held throughout October at the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, in Son Tay District on the outskirts of Hanoi.

Bac cake reflects Giang Xa villagers soul and culture

Giang Xa Village in Hanoi’s Hoai Duc District is famous for its delightful ‘bac’ cake (fried cake made from sticky rice, ‘gac’ fruit and green bean), a delicacy which has existed for more than a hundred years.

Golf tournament to highlight Hà Nội’s culture

The 4th Hanoi Golf Clubs Tournament - Fastee Cup will take place on October 9-10 at the Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club, in Chuong My, in the western outskirts of the capital.

Clay house built as mark of pride in ethnic culture

A half-a-million-dollar house was built completely from clay to show the owner's admiration for H'mong ethnic group's traditions in Ha Giang Province.

Stamps featuring ancient Oc Eo Culture issued

A collection of stamps showcasing the objects of Oc Eo Culture that were recognised as national treasures has been issued by the Ministry of Information and Communications in co-ordination with the People's Committee of the southern province of An Giang.

Source: NDO/VNA