Japan Days in Osh Bring Music, Dance, and Culture to Kyrgyz Students

The Embassy of Japan in Kyrgyzstan, together with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Kyrgyz Republic-Japan Center for Human Development (KRJC), have hosted vibrant Japan Days in Osh, celebrating Japanese culture through music, dance, and interactive workshops.

The two-day event kicked off at Osh State University with a screening of the Japanese film Miracles Nearby, specially curated for students studying the Japanese language, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

photo: 24kg

That evening, the Ooedodaiko Japanese drum ensemble captivated audiences with a solo concert at the Sultan Ibraimov Osh National Drama Theater, attended by regional administration officials and City Hall representatives.

Day two continued the cultural celebration with performances at Osh State University. Ooedodaiko returned to the stage, joined by a JICA volunteer group performing traditional Japanese dances to songs like Nanchu Soran Bushi and Hanagasa Ondo. Volunteers also played pieces on the komuz, a traditional Kyrgyz instrument, creating a unique fusion of cultures.

Students studying Japanese delighted the audience with a cover of Winged Swings and a traditional Japanese dance, while the band Sushi Barmak performed anime hits, inviting the crowd to sing along. The program concluded with a Kendo demonstration, showcasing Japan’s martial arts heritage.

Visitors also explored Japanese culture up close in the university foyer, enjoying calligraphy, origami, yukata (summer kimono) dressing, and traditional games. A Japanese language corner offered hands-on immersion for guests eager to practice their skills.

Hiroyuki Suzuki, Counselor of the Embassy of Japan, expressed hope that the festival would deepen friendship between Japan and Kyrgyzstan, strengthening ties with Osh and fostering cultural exchange for years to come.