The Vietnam - Japan Festival kicked off in Tokyo on June 13under the themed “Hand in Hand”, attracting thousands of visitors in theopening day.

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

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

Meanwhile,Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Doan Xuan Hung thanked the Governmentand people of Japan for supporting Vietnam over the past years. Hesaid he hopes through the festival, people of both countries will getdeeper mutual understanding.

The two-day event consists ofdiverse 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 servingVietnamese and Japanese traditional food, is also a highlight of thefestival.

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