Dagblad Utrecht, a Local News Outlet

Dagblad Utrecht, a Local News Outlet, published this article about the upcoming season 2024-2025 of Japan Fans and the Japanese Cultural Centre Utrecht. Thank you!

Dagblad Utrecht a Local News Outlet: Japan Fans Utrecht Announces a Vibrant New Season for 2024-2025, Japanese Art & Culture Centre Utrecht
Screenshot of the Dutch publication in Dagblad Utrecht (a local news outlet)

Dagblad Utrecht (a local news outlet): Japan Fans Utrecht Announces a Vibrant New Season for 2024-2025

The Japanese Cultural Centre Utrecht, organised by Japan Fans, is proud to open its doors for a new season filled with inspiring activities and cultural discoveries. From concerts at the iconic Domkerk to interactive workshops in Japanese crafts, the 2024-2025 season promises to be a true celebration of Japanese art and culture. All events are organised under the umbrella of Japan Fans, which, through its two divisions – Bunkakai and Geijutsukai – offers a wide range of experiences for anyone interested in Japanese traditions and arts.

Highlights of the 2024-2025 Season:

  • Concerts Featuring Japanese Music: Enjoy enchanting melodies during concerts at the Utrecht Domkerk and various care homes in the region. These concerts offer a unique opportunity to experience the rich musical traditions of Japan in a stunning setting.
  • Workshops in Japanese Crafts: Discover the art of kintsugi (repairing pottery with gold), Shodo (Japanese calligraphy), sumi-e (ink painting), and origami. These workshops provide a chance to learn about traditional Japanese crafts up close and try your hand at creating something yourself.
  • Art Club and Exhibitions: Join the Art Club for engaging discussions, creative workshops like making kawaii clay animals, and various exhibitions in and around Utrecht. Geijutsukai offers a platform for artists and art lovers to share, learn, and exhibit.
  • Language Classes: Broaden your horizons with weekly language classes held on the first floor of the Leidsche Rijn Library. In addition to Japanese, classes in Korean and Dutch are now offered, with new study groups for Indonesian, Chinese, and Russian on the way.
  • Kimono and Yukata Workshops: Learn the art of wearing traditional Japanese clothing and capture the experience with photography sessions.
  • Matcha Tea Ceremony: Experience the tranquillity and beauty of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony with matcha, guided by an experienced tea master.
  • Workshops in Japanese Budo: Explore the world of Japanese martial arts such as karate, kendo, aikido, kyudo, and kobudo, and discover the discipline and philosophy behind these ancient practices.
  • Cooking and Baking Workshops: Dive into the culinary world of Japan and Korea with hands-on cooking and baking workshops that bring the authentic flavours of these cuisines to life.

A Centre of Culture and Art

The Japanese Cultural Centre Utrecht is more than just a place; it’s a vibrant hub where culture and art converge. Japan Fans Utrecht brings people together, whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a newcomer eager to explore Japanese traditions. Activities are generally free of charge, although a voluntary contribution is requested for some events to cover costs.

With a wide range of workshops, concerts, and language classes, the centre offers something for everyone. However, the ambition of Japan Fans Utrecht goes even further. In the long run, the centre dreams of establishing a full-fledged Japanese cultural centre in the heart of Utrecht, a place where Japanese art and culture can continue to flourish.

For More Information

For more details about the programme and to sign up for activities, visit: www.japanfans.nl and www.japanscultureelcentrum.nl.

Japan Fans – Japanese Arts & Culture from the Centre of Utrecht