HÀ NỘI — A traditional art troupe from Japan’s Toshima Prefecture will perform the Yosakoi dance around Hoàn Kiếm Lake’s walking streets on April 21.

About 27 dancers in vivid costumes tapping to the rhythmic naruko will keep the audience mesmerised throughout their performance. Naruko is small wooden clappers that are held in the hands of each dancer.

“Yosakoi combines the traditional with the modern, symbolising Japanese culture,” said Iwata Jinichi, the art troupe’s leader, at a meeting with Hà Nội People’s Committee vice chairman Nguyễn Văn Sửu on April 19.

“Performing in Việt Nam’s capital is an honour for the art troupe. We hope to enhance the relationship of Toshima Prefecture and Tokyo with Hà Nội as well as between Japan and Việt Nam,” Jinichi said.

He presented a letter written by the Toshima Prefecture chairman to Hà Nội authorities at the meeting. The letter said people in Toshima wished to welcome more Hanoians to discover their culture and strengthen friendship between the two sides.

Speaking at the meeting, Sửu affirmed the long-term relationship between the two countries and two cities in many fields. He said Hanoians, too, were eager to welcome international visitors, including Japanese tourists, to Hà Nội City.

“Recently, Sakura Festival was held successfully at Lý Thái Tổ Garden, making a strong impression on Hanoians and foreigners alike, he said, adding that the Yosakoi dance would be the highlight of the weekend.

Yosakoi is a traditional Japanese dance originating in Kochi Prefecture. The history of this dance form dates back to 1590. Today, there are many versions of Yosakoi, including hip-hop, samba, rock and hula-dance, among others.

The Yosakoi dance is one of main components of the Fukuro Festival, which is one of the major dance festivals in Japan. This year, the Fukuro Festival will be held in October at Toshima Prefecture in Tokyo.

The Japanese dancers from Tokyo Yosakoi Association will perform in front of the city Post Office building from 3pm to 5pm. — VNS