Konnichiwa!

The season of spring arrived a bit earlier in Tokyo this year, with cherry blossoms blooming already in mid-March. It was a beautiful coincidence that the launch of Sakura floral display at Gardens by the Bay also took place almost on the same day. Just like many Singaporeans, I thoroughly enjoyed the gorgeous cherry blossoms without having to leave Singapore at all. JCC was also delighted to present a range of Japanese cultural programmes, such as performances featuring koto, folk dance, taiko and other traditional Japanese instruments. We even held our ever-popular JCC Cinema, screening the animated film ‘BELLE’.

Our events at JCC were especially enriching too. For the first time, we co-organised an Ikebana exhibition with Singapore Sogetsu Association, whom we share a close relationship with. The theme of using recycled materials discarded by nature challenges one’s creativity and expression, and I was pleasantly surprised by the many stunning Ikebana arrangements. The demonstration led by Mr Bernard Tay, Vice President of Singapore Sogetsu Association and well-known Sogetsu Ikebana Instructor and Floral Designer, was eye-opening too.

We also held an exciting 1 day event that invited people to experience and learn about the traditions and innovations of Japanese arts and crafts, particularly the wonderful metalworking products of Niigata Tsubame-Sanjo. I hope that the event inspired many Singaporeans, and in turn will spark new design collaborations between Japan and Singapore. The Japanese scents workshops were a great success too, and I believe that participants were able to better appreciate the various fragrances and history behind them.

If you wish to stay informed about our upcoming events in 2023, please follow us on our Facebook and Instagram! You may also follow the Embassy of Japan in Singapore on their Facebook page for the latest news and updates from Japan.

Toru Furugori
Director, Japan Creative Centre (JCC)
Embassy of Japan in Singapore
5th April 2023