Addressing the opening ceremony, Japanese former senator and Secretary of State Matsuda Iwao said the event give a chance for boosting people-to-people contacts between the two nations.

It is becoming one of important and most awaited festivals of its kind in Japan , he said, expressing belief that with interesting activities, the festival will satisfy visitors.

Meanwhile, Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Doan Xuan Hung thanked the Government and people of Japan for supporting Viet Nam over the past years. He said he hopes through the festival, people of both countries will get deeper mutual understanding.

The two-day event consists of diverse activities, including Vietnamese traditional art performances, “ao dai” shows, as well as performances by famous Japanese artists.

At the same time, 80 booths, including 50 food pavilions serving Vietnamese and Japanese traditional food, is also a highlight of the festival.

According to the organising board, the event is expected to welcome 150,000 visitors.