By V. Sivaji
It was a sea of colours, culture and tradition when the Malaysian Japanese Society hosted its Aki Matsuri festival gathering at The TOP where some 300 guests gathered over the weekend.
The celebration attracted Japanese nationals and expatriates in Penang and surrounding areas.
State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai took time to make his presence/
Meanwhile, many guests come attired in Japanese traditional costumes. Organising chairman, Choo Shing Lai and his committee were on hand to ensure the programme went smoothly.
Lending support was the Consulate General of Japan in Penang Mr Kawaguchi and his team.
Among the highlights were traditional dance performances, Origami and Kirigami workshop, Japanese cultural performances, Miss Aki Matsuri contest, Miss Yukata dressing experience, Anime, Masks, Figurines, appearance of Ms Bon Odori 2019 finalist, Yukata wearing experience, lucky draw among other highlights.
Other events included Taiko drum performance, Yosakoi Sa-ran performance, the announcement of Miss Penang Aki-Matsuri 2023 winner.
Representatives from Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) were also present to lend support.
There were also Japanese food stalls serving traditional dishes and cookies.
Aki Matsuri is an Autumn Festival in Japan.
A great Japanese culture event 2023 that replaced The Bon Odori which was not held this year.