Japanese Cultural Festival ‘Hayy Matsuri’ Starts in Jeddah

The third annual Japanese cultural festival “Hayy Matsuri” began Thursday at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah.

 The festival returns with a three-day program inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Shu Ha Ri, which emphasizes learning through imitation, followed by development, and ultimately innovation and creation.

 Running until January 10, Hayy Matsuri aims to strengthen cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and Japan, highlighting the arts' role as a bridge for human connection and a platform for fostering mutual understanding.

 Hayy Matsuri offers a comprehensive cultural experience that blends Japanese traditions with contemporary creativity through a diverse program featuring musical performances, live demonstrations, an expanded film program at Hayy Cinema, and interactive activities designed for visitors of all ages.

 The festival hosts a wide range of events, including anime and manga showcases, cultural competitions, games, handicraft workshops, and activities for visual culture, poetry, and design, as well as live performances celebrating Japanese artistic and heritage practices.

 This year’s edition also marks the return of the open market, featuring Japanese culture-inspired products alongside authentic Japanese food and beverages, giving visitors the opportunity to explore Japanese cuisine in a vibrant cultural setting.

 The festival includes a dedicated interactive space for immersive music listening experiences inspired by Japan’s deep-listening environments, reflecting the evolution of sound culture and enriching visitors’ engagement within an integrated cultural and educational context.

 Hayy Matsuri’s third edition is part of the cultural model hosted by Hayy Jameel, which seeks to enhance mutual understanding and build bridges of cultural and artistic exchange among peoples, enriching local arts and celebrating cultural diversity.