From martial arts, traditional dances, yukata, calligraphy, and Japanese cuisine to cosplay and Japanese karaoke, the Japanese cultural festival VJIT Matsuri 2026 offered students a vibrant day of cultural experiences, helping to spread the spirit of cultural exchange and international integration.
Held on May 19, the festival was organized by the Vietnam-Japan Institute of Technology (VJIT) under Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH), bringing students an immersive Japanese cultural experience right on campus. As a meaningful annual event, the program introduced the unique features of Japanese culture to students through a series of exchange activities, check in areas, traditional costume experiences, cuisine, arts, and cultural performances.
HUTECH students experienced a vibrant Japanese cultural atmosphere right on campus
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof. Le Van Canh, Vice President of the University, emphasized: “VJIT Matsuri serves as a bridge that strengthens the friendship between Vietnam and Japan while reflecting HUTECH’s commitment to the internationalization of education. Through hands on cultural activities, the University hopes students will broaden their global perspectives, develop an international mindset, and better prepare themselves for future careers.”
Prof. Le Van Canh shared his remarks at the festival
Ribbon-cutting ceremony
From the beginning of the program, activities rich in Japanese spirit quickly attracted students’ attention. The IAIDO performance, featuring precise and powerful sword movements, allowed students to better understand the discipline, concentration, and martial spirit deeply rooted in Japanese culture. The Samurai “newspaper cutting” activity also attracted many participants, offering a fun, interactive, and engaging experience.
The IAIDO performance and Samurai experiences attracted a large number of students
The festival atmosphere became even more exciting with Yosakoi and Bon Odori performances. Energetic music, synchronized dance movements, and enthusiastic cheers from students transformed the stage area into a lively cultural exchange space. Through these performances, students had the opportunity to experience the sense of community, joy, and traditional beauty found in Japanese festivals.
The Yosakoi and Bon Odori performances created a vibrant festival atmosphere filled with Japanese cultural colors
Beyond the stage performances, the cultural experience area was also a favorite destination for many students. Activities such as wearing yukata, practicing calligraphy, folding origami, and enjoying sushi, wagashi, and mochi brought students closer to everyday Japanese culture. In particular, the Wagashi making workshop and Mochi pounding activity generated great excitement thanks to their hands on nature, allowing students to directly participate in traditional culinary processes.
Students explored Japanese cultural and culinary experiences at the festival
One of the youthful highlights of VJIT Matsuri 2026 was the Cosplay contest, featuring many famous anime, manga, and gaming characters. The carefully prepared costumes, accessories, and performance styles created an energetic atmosphere strongly reflecting Gen Z creativity and enthusiasm.
The Cosplay contest brought youthful energy and impressive student performances to the festival
The program also featured exchange activities with international guests and the VJIT Voice contest with Japanese karaoke performances. The energetic and youthful performances helped bring the Japanese language closer to students while creating opportunities for them to confidently showcase their talents, build confidence, and connect with friends who share a passion for Japanese culture.
Japanese karaoke and exchange activities energized the atmosphere at VJIT Matsuri 2026

Mr. Ono Masuo emphasized the significance of the festival in strengthening the friendship between the two countries


VJIT Matsuri 2026 contributed to spreading the spirit of cultural exchange and strengthening Vietnam Japan relations
“The vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic participation at VJIT Matsuri 2026 clearly demonstrate the growing connection and mutual interest between the younger generations of Vietnam and Japan. Meaningful cultural exchange activities like this will continue to foster understanding, strengthen bonds, and nurture the strong friendship between the two countries in the future,” shared Ono Masuo.
News: Ngân Hà
Photo: Anh Khoa & Quốc Đạt
Communication Center