North East Japan Caravan held in Kohima

A two- day North East Japan Caravan 2025-26, a cultural exchange initiative, organized by the Japan Foundation and the Embassy of Japan in India in collaboration with the Department of Art & Culture, government of Nagaland, commenced on March 7 at the State Academy Hall, Kohima.
A press release by deputy director, Department of Art and Culture, Teisovikuolie Therie, stated that the two-day event aimed to strengthen cultural ties between India and Japan, showcasing Japan’s rich traditions and contemporary culture.
The program included a welcome address by Adela Moa, director, Department of Art & Culture, government of Nagaland, speeches by dignitaries, a cultural performance by Vetahulu Sapu, Governor awardee, and her friend, who presented a folk song with traditional instrument, Tati, a Judo demonstration by Nagaland Judo Association, Japanese film screenings, and interactive workshops on calligraphy, origami, and Yukata.
Chief guest, K. Konngam Konyak, Advisor, Art and Culture, Government of Nagaland, stated that cultural identity forms the very heart of society and events like the North East Japan Caravan remind us that art, music, and traditions bring people together in meaningful ways, bridging geographical distances.
Takashi Kobayashi, first secretary, Embassy of Japan, said that ICCR and the Japan Foundation have collaborated to organise the Japan Caravan, which aims to bring Japanese Culture to the people of the Northeast states.
He added that through cultural exchanges like this caravan, the relationship between Japan and India is deepened, built on shared values of mutual respect and cooperation, and looked forward to continued people-to-people connections.
Kurumi Otake, director, Art and Culture, Japan Foundation, New Delhi, said that Japan’s ability to preserve ancient traditions while embracing modern innovation is something that continues to inspire the world and hoped that the caravan sparks interest in Japan’s culture among the people of Nagaland and the Northeast.
Speeches by dignitaries emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between India and Japan. The event provided a platform for people-to-people connections, especially engaging the youth of Nagaland and the Northeast region.
“The North East Japan Caravan serves as a powerful reminder that culture is one of the strongest bridges between nations,” said a spokesperson.
The event concluded with appreciation for the collaboration between the Japan Foundation, Embassy of Japan in India, and the Government of Nagaland.