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Richness of Japanese culture in Northern Ireland celebrated

Bernadette AllenBBC News NI
News imageBBC Five people are standing in a row holding Japanese swords. The person in the centre is wearing traditional Japanese multi-coloured armour. The other four are wearing blue clothingBBC
A display at the 30th anniversary of the Japanese Society in Northern Ireland

A day of vibrant music, song and dance has been held to celebrate the richness of Japanese culture in Northern Ireland.

The 30th anniversary of the Japan Society in Northern Ireland was marked with a family-friendly matsuri festival that featured performances, workshops, demonstrations and activities.

The Japanese Ambassador to the UK, and social media personality, Hiroshi Suzuki was in attendance and said he was excited to be there.

"For me this is extremely important – because there are a number of Japanese companies invested and operating in and around Belfast in Northern Ireland – and we have a mutually beneficial economic partnership," he said.

News imageA man in a black suit, white shirt and red tie is holding a teddy bear with a blue coat and red hat.
The Japanese Ambassador to the UK, Hiroshi Suzuki, brings Paddington Bear with him when he travels

'Paddington is my partner'

Suzuki often carries around a Paddington Bear toy, and frequently posts pictures of it on social media, when he is travelling around the UK.

"Paddington is my partner, he helps me go around the UK – and thanks to Paddington I am a little bit popular on my X ( social media)," he said.

"My activities can be seen through Paddington, so I hope many people who can't be here today will get to see what kind of fantastic time we've had at Japan matsuri through my X, through the power of Paddington."

The event was held at W5 Belfast and featured storytelling, drama performances and sumo wrestling.

News imageA man with black glasses and grey hair. He is wearing a black shirt and blue coat.
Sean Greer is the secretary of the Japan Society in Northern Ireland

Sean Greer is the secretary of the Japan Society in Northern Ireland. He said the society was founded for people who are Japanese and live in Northern Ireland, but also for people from Northern Ireland who have lived in Japan:

"These days people are travelling to Japan more and more and becoming more aware of Japanese food and things like cherry blossoms. Japanese pop culture is big here in Northern Ireland as well."

News imageA woman and a man stand by side and are smiling. They are wearing dark sweaters.
Nicole Murray and her husband attended the Matsuri festival to meet people

Nicole Murray attended the event with her husband and said they wanted to meet new people at the festival:

"Belfast is becoming a really multi diverse city. For us it was just something we really wanted to check out – and we really enjoy the culture. So far, my favourite bit has been the Taiko drumming. "

News imageA woman stands next to a boy. She is wearing light blue clothes. He is wearing dark blue clothes with a black lapel. There is white writing on the lapel.
Junko McNeely and her 15-year-old son Joel

'It is really interesting to see the heritage'

Junko McNeely is originally from Japan and attended with her son 15-year-old Joel. McNeely said the event showcased the connection between Japan and Northern Ireland.

"There are a variety of clubs associated with Japanese culture. The public can enjoy seeing what is available in Northern Ireland."

Joel said the event was important for him and others who have Japanese heritage.

"It's really interesting to see the heritage on my mum's side and get to know more, as growing up here – I don't get to experience as much of my Japanese side."