IBUKI DAY: Celebrating Japanese Culture and Vietnam–Japan Friendship at NTTU
NTTU – The energetic chant of “Yoisho!”, captivating Iaido sword demonstrations, and the lively rhythms of Bon Odori dancing brought Nguyen Tat Thanh University (NTTU) students on a vibrant journey into Japanese culture – right on their own campus.
The Nguyen Tat Thanh University (NTTU) Foreign Languages Center, in partnership with KL Consulting Company and a delegation of Japanese partners, recently hosted “IBUKI DAY – Heartbeat of Vietnam and Japan,” a cultural exchange event that drew wide participation from the NTTU student community.
Representing the university was Dr. Huynh Tan, Director of the NTTU Foreign Languages Center and Assistant to the President, alongside Ms. Le Ngoc Thao Lam, Founder and CEO of KL Consulting. Joining from Japan were Mr. Nakaseko Takashi (known by his Samurai name, O-den), Chairman of the Board of Nagoya Nakatec; Ms. Nagae Ayaka, Brand Director of fashion label SYSORUS; and representatives from F.A.S, Chuoh Publishing, and several other partner organizations. The event also saw strong turnout from NTTU students, who participated actively across all cultural exchange activities throughout the day. The program was organized as part of the university’s ongoing efforts to enrich the campus experience through international engagement, offering students meaningful opportunities to connect with the Japanese language, culture, and professional values in an immersive and approachable setting.
The event was organized as part of the university’s ongoing efforts to enrich the campus experience through international engagement, offering students meaningful opportunities to connect with the Japanese language, culture, and professional values in an immersive and approachable setting.
Bringing Japanese Culture Closer to NTTU Students
IBUKI DAY featured a full lineup of Japanese cultural activities, including an Iaido (sword art) demonstration, a traditional dance performance, Shuji calligraphy, Anime culture discussions, and a traditional Mochi rice cake pounding session.
The centerpiece of the program was the Iaido demonstration delivered by Master Nakaseko Takashi (O-den), Chairman of the Board of Nagoya Nakatec. Through a series of focused, precise swordwork sequences, Master Takashi offered students a compelling introduction to the Samurai spirit and its core values of discipline, composure, and perseverance — principles that remain deeply relevant in both Japanese culture and the modern workplace.
Master Nakaseko Takashi (O-den) performing an Iaido demonstration at IBUKI DAY
NTTU students trying the “newspaper cutting” challenge under the guidance of the Japanese sword master
Artist Nagae Ayaka, Brand Director of fashion label SYSORUS, delivered a graceful performance of “Chiyo no Matsu,” a traditional Japanese dance that showcased the subtlety and artistry of Japan’s classical performing arts tradition.
Artist Nagae Ayaka performing the traditional dance “Chiyo no Matsu”
Among the most popular activities of the day was the traditional Mochi pounding session, where students joined international guests in a lively, hands-on experience filled with chants of “Yoisho!” The activity created an informal and genuine atmosphere of cross-cultural exchange that resonated strongly with participants.
NTTU students joining international guests in the traditional Mochi pounding activity
Calligraphy workshops and Anime culture sessions rounded out the program, giving students additional insight into the breadth of Japanese cultural life — spanning traditional arts, contemporary popular culture, and everything in between.
Supporting NTTU’s International Vision
Beyond the activities themselves, IBUKI DAY served as a platform for strengthening NTTU’s ties with Japanese partners, including representatives from F.A.S, Chuoh Publishing, and other collaborating organizations. These connections support the university’s broader goals of expanding student exchange, internship, and joint training opportunities with Japanese institutions and businesses.
NTTU students exploring Shuji calligraphy at the event
Students, faculty, and guests coming together for the Bon Odori circle dance
Programs like IBUKI DAY complement formal language study by placing students in real intercultural settings where they can practice communication, build confidence, and develop an appreciation for different cultural perspectives. This kind of experiential learning is central to NTTU’s approach to preparing students for careers in an increasingly globalized workforce.
The university has been steadily expanding its international partnerships in recent years, and events of this nature reflect that commitment — bringing global experiences directly to students on campus while also laying the groundwork for deeper academic and professional collaboration in the future.
IBUKI DAY reflecting NTTU’s commitment to international cultural exchange and a globally enriched campus environment
Spreading the Spirit of Vietnam–Japan Cultural Connection
The program concluded with a Bon Odori circle dance, with students, faculty, and guests participating together in a lively and inclusive finale. The event then closed with the traditional Japanese Ippon-jime clapping ceremony — a symbolic gesture of unity and goodwill that brought the day to a warm and memorable end.
IBUKI DAY was a meaningful addition to NTTU’s calendar of international activities, demonstrating the university’s commitment to building a campus culture that is open, globally aware, and enriching for every student. As NTTU continues to grow its network of international partnerships, events like this play an important role in preparing students not just academically, but as well-rounded individuals ready to engage with the world.
Translated by: Department of Global Engagement
Photos: Media
