Director's message of this month

With Okinawa Prefectural Government Singapore Office Director Mr Uchima Hirotaka and staff, as well as Singaporean travel writer and former JET ALT participant Ms Wendy Ng.

Dear Friends of JCC,

Konnichiwa!

September was bursting with colour and energy, as if JCC were staging its own fireworks show with each consecutive event. We were thrilled to shine the spotlight on Okinawa in a two-week-long exhibition. While it may receive lesser visitors compared to some other prefectures, Okinawa is brimming with its own distinct charms be it the traditional crafts, scenery, food and people. I was captivated by the traditional crafts, which proudly showcase Okinawa’s unique heritage and instantly evoke a warm tropical breeze. We hope the exhibition inspired many of you to visit this beautiful island prefecture! めんそーれ (Welcome!)

Our focus remained on heritage and tradition, with a lecture by Dr Kinoshita Hikaru, Professor at Kansai University, regarding his research and development of V-shaped tiles to improve thermal performances, especially for traditional terra-cotta roof tiles in Singapore. The creative dialogue between Japan and Singapore continued in an exhibition exploring craft traditions and practices in both countries. It featured portraits of twelve artisans – six of Japan and six of Singapore, painted by artist Ms Tsuyumi Miwa, with each piece displayed alongside the artisan’s actual craft objects. This unique exhibition will be running until 10 October, so be sure to drop by JCC before it’s over!

Finally, a major highlight I eagerly anticipate every year is our annual Japanese Film Festival! True to the spirit of SJ60, this year’s line-up features not only Japanese films, but also Singapore-Japan collaborations, including works by renowned Singaporean filmmaker Eric Khoo, who joins us as our first-ever JFF Festival Ambassador. With the remarkable selection of films, I’m sure there is something to pique your curiosity. Sit back, relax and enjoy!

There are just a few months left to the year of SJ60. So please follow us on our Facebook and Instagram, as well as the SJ60 Facebook page 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)

6th October 2026