THE VIETNAMESE EMBASSY IN JAPAN ORGANIZES A PROGRAM TO EXCHANGE AND INTRODUCE VIETNAMESE AO DAI IN TOKYO

           On May 30, 2026, at Shimizu Kimono School (Tokyo), the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan hosted a program to exchange and introduce Vietnamese Ao Dai. The program was honored with the participation of the leadership of the Asian Pacific Women's Organization (ALFS), the wives of ambassadors from various countries, and teachers and students of the school. The program was organized in active cooperation with the Association of Vietnamese Traditional Arts and Culture in Japan (BETORAKU).

          The program began with a dance performance titled "The Quintessence of Vietnam," offering the audience a vivid glimpse into the beauty and cultural identity of the Vietnamese nation. Speaking at the event, Mrs. Thai Thu Hong, wife of the Ambassador, gave a brief overview of Vietnam and its people, while also sharing the history and development of the ao dai – a traditional garment associated with the image of Vietnamese women through many generations. From traditional values ​​preserved over time to modern, creative designs today, the ao dai has continued to affirm its enduring vitality in contemporary life.

          The highlight of the program was the fashion show of ao dai collections diverse in materials, styles, and designs. The audience was particularly delighted to learn about typical traditional costumes from the three regions of North, Central, and South Vietnam, such as the four-panel dress of Northern Vietnam, Hue royal court attire, the ao ba ba of Southern Vietnam, along with traditional costumes of the Thai, Ede, and many other ethnic communities. The colors, patterns, and distinctive lines of each costume contributed to portraying the rich and diverse cultural landscape of Vietnam – a country of 54 ethnic groups.

          In addition, the program also showcased many unique ao dai designs such as handcrafted silk ao dai, high-end silk ao dai, velvet ao dai, lotus-embroidered ao dai, artistic bejeweled ao dai, along with modern designs. The collections celebrated the elegant and graceful beauty of the Vietnamese ao dai, while also demonstrating the creativity and adaptability of traditional attire in contemporary life.

           In particular, the appearance of children from the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan in vibrant traditional ao dai created a joyful, intimate, and emotional atmosphere. Their innocent and adorable images not only won the hearts of the audience but also represented the continuation and preservation of national cultural values ​​across generations.

          The program concluded with an interactive activity and a chance to wear ao dai for Japanese students. Many students enthusiastically donned the traditional Vietnamese ao dai, capturing memorable moments and expressing their admiration for the elegant and refined beauty of Vietnamese traditional attire. Held in a warm, lively atmosphere and rich in cultural exchange, the program left a positive impression on the guests, teachers, and students in attendance. Beyond promoting the image of Vietnam, its people, and culture to Japanese friends, the event also served as a bridge to strengthen people-to-people exchanges, foster mutual understanding, and deepen the friendly relations between Vietnam and Japan./.