Culture

EXPO 2025: Gia Lai’s cultural diplomacy showcased in Japan

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(GLO) – Gia Lai’s delegation of artisans and athletes captured international attention at World Expo 2025 in Japan, presenting traditional gong music, brocade, dance, and martial arts as part of Vietnam’s cultural diplomacy efforts.

From September 7–11, nine artisans and eight martial artists represented the Central Highlands province, highlighting the beauty of Jrai culture and the martial spirit of Tây Sơn.

The captivating performance by Gia Lai artisans at EXPO 2025. Photo: Provided by Organizers

Their performances, warmly received by Japanese audiences, combined music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations.

Japanese locals and international friends were enthusiastic about Gia Lai’s performance at EXPO 2025. Photo: Provided by Organizers

Artisan Ksor Huôn, both vocalist and gong performer, shared how foreign audiences embraced Jrai music, often returning to watch multiple shows.

A performance by athletes from the Binh Dinh Traditional Martial Arts Center. Photo: Văn hóa Newspaper

Gia Lai’s martial arts team, led by Coach Nguyễn Văn Cảnh, presented signature performances such as “the essence of the land of martial arts” and “the spirit of Tây Sơn”, included forms, weapon techniques, and sparring, drawing strong applause from audiences familiar with martial traditions.

Among the performers was gold medalist Trần Thúy Vy, who expressed pride in representing her homeland abroad.

The spirit of traditional martial arts captivated a large audience. Photo: Provided by Organizers

Vice Chairwoman of the Gia Lai Provincial People’s Committee Nguyễn Thị Thanh Lịch praised the delegation’s role in strengthening Vietnam’s cultural image and fostering new opportunities for investment and tourism.

The Gia Lai traditional martial arts and gong teams participated in Vietnam National Day at EXPO 2025. Photo: Provided by Organizers

During her trip, she also met with Japanese officials and investors, including representatives from Marubeni Lumber and the Mayor of Izumisano City.

According to the Vice Chairwoman, Gia Lai’s unique performances, featuring bamboo instruments, gong ensembles, and martial arts, added distinct value to Vietnam National Day at Expo 2025, enhancing cultural exchange and bilateral cooperation.

Vice Chairwoman of the Gia Lai Provincial People’s Committee Nguyễn Thị Thanh Lịch (third from right) poses for a commemorative photo with Mr. Hitoshi Kato (second from right), Chairman of the Japan-Vietnam Friendship Association in Osaka. Photo: Provided by Organizers

The province’s participation underscored the growing role of cultural diplomacy in expanding international relations, raising Gia Lai’s profile, and positioning the Central Highlands as both a cultural and investment destination.

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