Members of the public are invited to join students and staff of the University of Stirling at a week-long celebration of Japanese culture later this month.
Japanese Week – which runs from Tuesday 25 March to Sunday 30 March – is the University’s annual programme of events celebrating Japanese art, music, film, food, language and culture.
The programme includes a host of workshops, lectures and taster events. Highlights include a display of choreographed taiko drumming by Dojo Performance Team; introductory Japanese language sessions; a special lunch offering the chance to sample traditional Japanese cuisine; a drinks reception and concert by Edinburgh Quartet; a screening of the classic Japanese film Tokyo Story (1953); and a beginners’ calligraphy workshop held by Japanese students studying at the University of Stirling.
Kerry Bryson, Director of Development and External Affairs at the University said: "It is a great pleasure to be holding our second annual Japanese Week - to celebrate the cultural significance, global importance and aesthetic value of Japanese culture and art.
"The strong, historic links between the nations of Scotland and Japan are echoed in the successful partnerships Stirling has with several Japanese universities. Japanese Week represents another valuable contribution to the maintenance of this important relationship
"This year’s programme is packed full of exciting and thought-provoking sessions. Whether you enjoy informative discussion, inspiring entertainment, interactive presentations, or just want to learn new skills, there is something to suit all tastes and we look forward to welcoming you.
"Developing our links with international partners and building positive relationships with communities around the globe is a strategic priority. We are committed to providing members of our community with opportunities to enjoy new cultural experiences and learn about the diverse range of histories and traditions represented on campus."
The programme begins on Tuesday 25 March with a lecture by Mr Jun Arima, Director General of Japan External Trade Organization JETRO - who will discuss the Japanese economy in relation to abenomics and energy policy challenges. Audience members will be invited to attend a reception after the lecture for drinks and sushi.
The event programme is open to everyone. Most sessions are free to attend, but all should be booked in advance. See www.stir.ac.uk/events or email externalaffairs@stir.ac.uk for further information and the full programme of events.
The University would also like to thank the following sponsors of Japanese Week for their support:
- Consulate of Japan, Edinburgh
- The Japan Society of Scotland, Scotland
- The Japan Scotland Association, Japan
- The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation
- The Japan Society of the UK