UK / Culture

01 October 2023

'Japan Matsuri' which many Japanese companies including Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V. sponsor to was held for the first time in 4 years at Trafalgar Square, in front of The National Gallery on 1st October. 'Matsuri' means 'Festival' in Japanese, and a lot of visitors enjoyed Japanese cultures at this festival.

Japan Matsuri was officially launched by Mr. Hayashi, the Ambassador of Japan with a sound of 'Wadaiko' the Japanese drums, and he led a traditional Japanese 'Kagami Biraki' which is a ceremonial opening of a sake barrel. And many distinguished British guests such as Jeremy Hunt MP, The Chancellor of Exchequer or Patricia McAllister, The Lord Mayor of Westminster attended this opening event.

This event expects that Japanese cultures add new values to multi-national culture and society in London, and various cultures such as 'Yosakoi', 'Budo' and 'Ainu' were introduced at this event. Also, Japanese cuisine represented by 'Sushi' or 'Sake' and local foods from Fukushima or Hokkaido were sold by several stands. Especially, Japanese Comedian 'Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura' who became famous for participation in Britain's God Talent 2023 greatly enlivened the audience.

Mitsubishi Electric Europe expects this event will continue to be a good bridge between Japan and U.K. as a Japanese brand having 3 bases in London.