Vietnamese in Kansai: Uphold National Identity, Strengthen Ties to Homeland's Islands

The General Association of Vietnamese in the Kansai region, Japan, recently held a meeting to summarize the success of the 2025 Vietnamese Cultural Festival and to express gratitude to accompanying individuals and organizations. Also at the meeting, a donation campaign for Truong Sa was launched.
April 15, 2025 | 12:15
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The event, held in Osaka, was attended by hundreds of delegates from associations, businesses, schools, and volunteer groups. Representatives of the Vietnamese community in Kaisai were also present.

Vietnamese in Kansai: Uphold National Identity, Strengthen Ties to Homeland's Islands
Head of the General Association of Vietnamese in the Kansai region Le Thuong (far left) expressed gratitude to outstanding individuals who have contributed to community activities.

Spread Vietnamese Culture in the Heart of Japan

In an interview with TG&VN newspaper, Le Thuong, Chairman of the General Association of Vietnamese in Kansai, shared insights on the 2025 Vietnamese Cultural Festival. The event, which was held in central Osaka last March, welcomed over 5,000 visitors.

The festival featured dozens of cultural booths, traditional cuisine, and captivating folk performances, including the conical hat dance, lion dance, quan họ singing, and áo dài showcases. These elements together painted a colorful and dynamic picture of Vietnam.

Le Thuong emphasized, “This festival is not just a celebration for Vietnamese people—it is a chance to introduce Vietnam’s rich culture and heritage to Japanese and international audiences. Through every booth, every áo dài, every folk melody, we are preserving, spreading, and continuing the essence of Vietnamese identity in the heart of the world.”

Beyond cultural promotion, the festival fostered a deep sense of pride among overseas Vietnamese, as they received warmth and appreciation from local and international guests.

During the event, the General Association held a certificate of gratitude ceremony, honoring nearly 50 individuals, organizations, businesses, and volunteer groups for their valuable contributions to the festival’s success. Though small in size, these certificates symbolized deep appreciation for those working tirelessly behind the scenes to support the community.

Reflecting on the collective effort, Le Thuong shared, “The festival’s success belongs to the entire community, not just one person. Every contribution—whether in logistics, communications, performances, or even preparing a single dish—played a vital role in bringing this event to life.”

Vietnamese in Kansai: Uphold National Identity, Strengthen Ties to Homeland's Islands
The meeting left emotional for the Vietnamese community in Kansai.

Fundraising for Beloved Truong Sa

A key highlight of the event was the fundraising campaign for Trường Sa, which saw enthusiastic participation from attendees. The donations will be directed toward essential programs supporting soldiers and residents in the Truong Sa Archipelago, helping strengthen their lives and operational needs on Vietnam’s maritime frontier.

“Though we are far from home, we have never forgotten the soldiers who tirelessly protect our seas and islands. We hope our contributions provide them with strength and encouragement. Supporting them is not only our responsibility but also a sacred connection shared by overseas Vietnamese in Kansai," said Doan Quang Linh with deep sentiment.

Kansai is home to tens of thousands of Vietnamese residents, including skilled workers, international students, and long-settled families. Over the years, this thriving community has grown stronger, contributing to the image of hardworking, friendly, and deeply connected Vietnamese people in Japan.

The General Association of Vietnamese in Kansai plays a vital role—not only in organizing annual cultural and social events but also in connecting various groups, offering legal and daily life support, guiding newcomers with essential information, and acting as a bridge between the community and local Japanese authorities.

The recent gathering was filled with emotions, inspiring the Vietnamese community in Kansai to stay united, preserve their identity, integrate fully, and remain deeply connected to their homeland.

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