JCC E-Magazine June 2025

Director's Message

JCC Director Kawabe with Dr Leonard Lim and his Ikebana arrangement for the one-day Ikenobo exhibition.

Dear Friends of JCC,

Konnichiwa!

Last month, we immersed ourselves in the worlds of two different but equally wonderful traditional Japanese cultures. The first was Ikebana through the school of Ikenobo, which dates back to more than 550 years ago. I had the pleasure of enjoying both the exhibition and the demonstration, with insightful commentary from Dr Leonard Lim, President of Ikenobo Ikebana Society, Singapore Chapter, illuminating the history, philosophy and various styles of this Japanese art of flower arrangement. Within that memorable hour, I learnt more about the essence of Ikenobo.

The second was shogi, a traditional Japanese board game sometimes referred to as Japanese chess. It was yet another enlightening afternoon, with the event catering to both new and experienced players. Professional shogi player Mr Hirotaka Nozuki, ranked 8-dan, introduced the history, and fundamentals of the game. Some participants then had the rare opportunity of playing against Nozuki 8-dan and other experienced shogi players! It was fascinating to witness multiple matches being played simultaneously.

The enthusiasm for shogi at JCC is sure to remain strong and even intensify. As announced in Tokyo on 1 June, the Ouza-sen （王座戦）title match, one of the eight major titles in Japanese professional shogi, will be held in Singapore on 4 September! The current title holder, Mr Fujii Sota will defend his title against a challenger to be determined in July. Regardless of who emerges as the challenger, the match promises to be incredibly exciting. We eagerly anticipate welcoming top Japanese shogi players to Singapore.

For those who still have the urge to experience or witness the thrills of shogi, be sure to follow JCC for more news about the big title match of shogi which is scheduled to take place in Singapore this September.

If you wish to receive information about our future events, please follow us on our Facebook and Instagram! You may also follow the Embassy of Japan in Singapore on their Facebook page as well as their X account for the latest news and updates from Japan.

Kawabe Akiko
Director, Japan Creative Centre (JCC)

5th June 2025

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