Japanese Cultural Week: A dive into tradition, art, and cuisine in Tirana

The Japanese Cultural Week, part of the International Cultural Weeks, will take place from October 9 to 15, offering an extraordinary celebration of Japanese culture. This week-long event aims to bring the public closer to Japan’s rich traditions, art, and philosophy.

The festivities kick off on October 9 with a Japanese Food Workshop led by a renowned Japanese chef. Participants will learn to prepare traditional Japanese dishes, enhancing their knowledge of the techniques and ingredients that define this unique cuisine.

On October 12, the Polytechnic University of Tirana will host a Tea Ceremony, where seven masters of this ancient ritual will guide attendees through the experience of tasting traditional tea. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session to explore the special rituals associated with the ceremony.

The magical and ancient art of origami will be featured during the Japanese Cultural Week as well. An Origami Workshop is scheduled for October 13 at the National Center for Children’s Culture in Tirana. This hands-on workshop will teach participants how to fold paper into various designs, reflecting the beauty and precision of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

On October 15, a Japanese Culture Symposium will take place at the Polytechnic University of Tirana, where firsthand accounts from individuals who have lived or studied in Japan will be shared. The primary goal of this symposium is to deepen understanding of Japan beyond stereotypes and to explore educational opportunities in the country.

Additionally, the Japanese Film Festival 2024 will be showcased over several days at the Max Velo Cinema in Tirana. The lineup includes popular animated films such as “Ride Your Wave” (October 9), “5 Centimeters per Second” (October 10), “Time of Eve” (October 11), “The Wonderland” (October 14), and “The Place Promised in Our Early Days” (October 15).

Finally, the “Ambassador’s Cup” Karate and Judo Tournament is set to take place on November 3 at the Olympic Park, where spectators can witness the extraordinary techniques and discipline that characterize these martial arts.

With a diverse array of activities planned, the Japanese Cultural Week promises to be an engaging experience for all participants, fostering a deeper appreciation of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.