Ireland-Japan 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations
2017 marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan. An exciting programme of cultural, political, community and sporting events was planned to commemorate this important milestone, as well as to deepen the existing positive relationship between the two countries.
In addition to the events planned by the Embassy of Ireland in Japan, and the Embassy of Japan in Ireland, civil society groups and individuals took it upon themselves to celebrate the anniversary in creative ways. In the tabs below you'll find more information about the events that were planned.
Hello, and welcome to the Embassy of Ireland in Japan's dedicated web page for the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan. As Ireland's Ambassador to Japan, it is my pleasure to preside over this important milestone in the rich and vibrant history between our two countries.
Japan is an important partner for Ireland in Asia. We are likeminded, we share the same values both at home and abroad on the international stage, and we are committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes. The Ireland-Japan relationship spans a wide area of activities in the political, business, economic and cultural spheres. On a people-to-people level we have thriving exchanges through the very successful working holiday and JET programme. The numbers of Irish and Japanese people visiting each other's countries continues to grow each year, and there are active Irish and Japanese interest societies in both countries.
60 years in the Asian Zodiac denotes the transition to a new cycle, or rebirth. I hope that the coming year of celebratory events will give impetus to our ever growing links and increase even further the warm relations between our two countries. I invite you to participate in some of our events this year and to help us to celebrate this important landmark.
Sincerely,
Anne Barrington
Ambassador of Ireland to Japan
Here you will find useful resources about the Ireland-Japan relationship.
Ireland in Japan 2017
This short leaflet outlines the history of Ireland-Japan relations and highlights some of the events taking place in Japan to mark the 60th Anniversary
Infographic: the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Ireland and Japan
Find out some interesting facts about Ireland-Japan links!
W.B. Yeats and the Noh Tradition Stamp
To mark the 60th Anniversary, An Post issued a stamp commemorating Yeats and the Japanese Noh that influenced him.
IIEA Study: Celebrating 60 Years Ireland - Japan Diplomatic Relations
This report by the Institute of International and European Affairs, commissioned by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, examines relations between Ireland and Japan across politics, economics, trade and investment, tourism, education and culture.
January
Friday 13 January
ICC Film Screening: 1916 The Irish Rebellion
International Community Center, Waseda University
www.waseda.jp/inst/icc/news/2016/12/09/7142
February
Thursday 16 February
Celtic Noh "At the Hawk's Well"
The esteemed Irish playwright William Butler Yeats was profoundly influenced by Japanese Noh theatre, and it inspired his 1916 creation At the Hawk's Well.
First performed in 1917, and later transported to Japan as The Hawk Princess, this play presents a unique and fascinating blend of Irish and Japanese theatrical traditions.
The classic story features a young Cú Chulainn, who journeys to a magic well to find the legendary water which bestows eternal life upon those who drink it.
All does not go smoothly for the protagonist, however, and he must face a cast of unusual characters in pursuit of his goal.
This latest performance will feature a star cast of Japanese Noh actors, and music for the acclaimed Anúna Celtic Choir.
If you are interested in attending At the Hawk's Well, please visit their website for more information: www.plankton.co.jp/takahime/e/index.html
Sunday 19 February
Irish Harp Festival
Japan Harp Association
Enquiries: TEL 090-2675-9015 Email enjoyharp@gmail.com
March
Wednesday, 1 March – Monday, 20 March
Ise Oo-Torii Gate Green Light-up
Irish Network Japan Mie
www.inj.or.jp/group/inj-mie
Saturday, 4 March
Irish Traditional Music Ceremony at Ise Shrine
Irish Network Japan Mie
www.inj.or.jp/group/inj-mie
Saturday, 11 March – Sunday, 12 March
Irish Festival in Matsue
Irish Festival in Matsue Organising Committee / Matsue City
Sunday, 12 March
St. Patrick's Day Parade Motomachi, Yokohama 2017
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Motomachi, Yokohama Committee
Monday, 13 March – Monday, 20 March
Saint Patrick’s Day 2017 in Ito-Yokado
Special Event at Seven Park Ario Kashiwa
Wednesday, 15 March – Sunday, 19 March
Ireland Modern Plays: "The Shadow of the Glen" "The Full Moon"
Theatre Company Haishou
Saturday, 18 March
The Emerald Ball Tokyo 2017
A celebration of all things Irish! A night of music and Craic!
Saturday, 18 March
Ireland Festival in Osaka 2017
Irish Network Japan Osaka
https://irishnjosaka.web.fc2.com
Saturday, 18 March
St. Patrick’s Day Party
International Exchange Association Niseko Friends
www.facebook.com/nisekokokusaikouryuu
Saturday, 18 March
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Kumamoto
Kumamoto Ireland Association
Saturday, 18 March
Irish Festival [St. Patrick’s Day 2017]
Okinawa City Centre Shopping District Promotion Association, Okinawa City
Sunday, 19 March
St Patrick’s Festival Nagoya
Irish Network Japan Nagoya
www.inj.or.jp/group/inj-nagoya
Sunday, 19 March
St. Patrick's Day Parade in Okayama
Okayama St. Patrick’s Day Committee
Sunday, 19 March
St. Patrick's Day Parade in Fukuoka
The Celtic Society of Japan
Sunday, 19 March
St. Patrick's Day Parade Tokyo 2017
Irish Network Japan Tokyo
For over twenty years the Irish community in Japan has celebrated St. Patrick's Day with parades and in 2017 we hope they will be bigger and better than ever. Everyone is welcome to get involved, and with 12 parades across Japan in 2016, there's a good chance that there's a parade somewhere near you.
www.inj.or.jp
Saturday, 18 March - Sunday, 19 March
I love Ireland Festival 2017
This family-friendly festival, featuring Irish food producers, local Irish bars, traditional and modern Irish acts performing throughout the day and a whole lot more, is a must for anyone looking to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in 2017 in style.
The I Love Ireland Festival, or ILIF for short, attracted over 50,000 visitors in 2016, and 2017 promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Taking place in Yoyogi Park, the ILIF will be the centrepiece of celebrations in Tokyo on St. Patrick's weekend. If you would like to get involved as a volunteer or as an official sponsor, please visit the ILIF website for more information: www.iloveireland.net
Sunday, 19 March
Warm Hearts - Seibo Charity Concert
Seibo Japan
Monday, 20 March
The 6th Takamatsu Ireland Festival
Shikoku Irish Network Japan / Irish Pub The Craic
www.shikokuirishnetworkjapan.jimdo.com
www.facebook.com/groups/Shikoku.INJ
Sunday, 26 March
Fukui Patrick’s Day Festival
Fukui Patrick’s day Committee
www.facebook.com/fukuipatricksday
April
Sunday, 2 April – Sunday, 11 June
Fun Culture Exchange: Irish Lecture Series
International Exchange Association Niseko Friends
Venue: Niseko Chomin Centre, Training Room 5
www.facebook.com/nisekokokusaikouryuu
May
Wednesday, 3 May – Friday, 5 May
Barakura Paradise Garden Irish Dance Lesson & Dance Party
Barakura English Garden
www.en.barakura.co.jp
Thursday, 11 May – Sunday, 28 May (closed on Mondays)
Exhibition: A Lonely Impulse of Delight
This exhibition of paintings is inspired by the writings of the Nobel prize-winning Irish author and poet, William Butler Yeats, and is coming to Japan in May 2016. Taking its name from An Irishman foresees his Death, the exhibition will expose a Japanese audience to both the literary genius of Yeats, and a range of Irish and international artists inspired by his works.
Venue: Tokyo University of the Arts, CHINRETSUKAN Gallery
Saturday, 13 May – Sunday, 4 June
Exhibition: Celtic Vision
Tir na nog Gallery
www.tirnanogtokyo.com
June
Saturday 3 June
Lecture Event Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Japan-Ireland Diplomatic Relations “Japan, the Land of the Kami as Perceived by Lafcadio Hearn”
Meiji Jingu Intercultural Research Institute
Venue: Meiji Jingu Sanshuden
www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/miri/info
Friday, 16 June – Sunday, 18 June
Féile Tokyo 2017
Comhaltas Japan (CCÉ Japan)
Venue: Tokyo Concerts Lab.
Saturday, 17 June /Saturday, 24 June
Rugby Test Matches ‘Lipovitan D Challenge Cup 2017’ Japan vs Ireland
In June 2017, the senior men's international rugby team will travel from Ireland to Japan to play a series of test matches. With Ireland riding on the crest of a wave following their historic win over New Zealand in November 2016, and the Japanese team setting their sights on glory in their home Rugby World Cup in 2019, this promises to be a tour to remember, with plenty at stake for both sides.
Saturday, 17 June, 14:00 at ECOPA Stadium, Shizuoka
Saturday, 24 June, 14:40 at Ajinomoto Stadium, Tokyo
Tuesday, 27 June – Sunday, 10 June 2018
IRELAND - A Treasury of Literature - Irish Writers of the Same Era as Hearn -
Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum
Co-organisers: Matsue City, NPO Matsue Tourism
Cooperation: Dublin Writers Museum
July
Saturday, 1 July
Irish Music Salon Concert
Organised by KANAK
Venue: Café Amarphe Piano Salon
Sunday, 2 July
2017 INTERNATIONALFESTIVAL in KAWASAKI “Ireland Corner”
Organised by 2017 INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL executive committee
Venue: Kawasaki International Centre
Saturday, 8 July – Monday, 17 July
The 26th Rainbow Reel Tokyo (Tokyo International Lesbian & Gay Film Festival)
Organised by Rainbow Reel Tokyo Committee, NPO Rainbow Reel Tokyo
Venue: Cinemart Shinjuku and Spiral Hall
From Saturday, 29 July
Film: Secret of Kells
Venue: Ebisu Garden Cinema and more
August
Friday, 4 August – Sunday, 5 November
Yokohama Triennale 2017 “Islands, Constellations & Galapagos”
(Kathy Prendergast is participating from Ireland)
Organised by City of Yokohama, Yokohama Arts Foundation, Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK),The Asahi Shimbun, Organizing Committee for Yokohama Triennale
Venue: Yokohama Museum of Art and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse No.1
September
Friday, 1 September – Sunday, 10 September
Waiting for Godot performed by Mouth on Fire
In honour of the long-standing relationship between Theatre X (Cai) and Ireland, especially the wonderful troupe Mouth On Fire, and marking the new publication in Japanese of Samuel Beckett's Theatrical Notebooks, a new production of Beckett's seminal work, Waiting for Godot, will be performed in September. The performance, directed by Melissa Nolan and Cathal Quinn, will be a collaboration between Irish and Japanese actors and will be staged at Theatre X in Ryogoku www.theaterx.jp (1-5 September), and in Kyoto's Zoukei University (9, 10 September). For bookings: www.theaterx.jp/17/170901-170905p.php (Tokyo), http://k-pac.org/?p=3331 (Kyoto)
Saturday, 2 September
Irish Culinary and Celtic Music Seminar
Organised by ICEJ (International Culture Exchange Japan)
Venue: Hattori Nutrition College
Friday, 8 September
Irish Day
Organised by Yokohama Steiner School
Venue: Yokohama Steiner School, Tokaichiba Building
Saturday, 9 September / Saturday, 16 September / Saturday, 7 October
Global cultural understanding seminar: Stories and Music from Ireland, Irish Harp Recital and Irish Dance Workshop
Organised by Kawasaki International Centre
Venue: Kawasaki International Centre
Tuesday, 26 September – Tuesday, 3 October
Lafcadio Hearn Project & “Music Documents” in Japan and Ireland
Organised by nothing but music
Venue: Ryogoku Monten Hall, Sacred Heart International School, Berrick Hall, Matsue Kitahori Museum
Saturday, 30 September - Sunday, 5 November
Awaji Art Circus 2017: Irish dance duo ‘Trinity Lace’
Organised by Awaji Art Circus Executive Commitee
Venue: over 15 venues in Awaji Island, Hyogo
http://awajiartcircus.com/
October
Saturday, 7 October
Ireland Meets Japan: W.B. Yeats, Lafcadio Hearn and Kyogen in Hikone
Organised by Promotion Committee of the 410th Anniversary Celebration of Hikone Castle
Venue: Hikone Castle Museum
http://hikone-410th.com
Saturday, 7 October
Green An-don Workshop
Organised by Junior Chamber International Matsue
Venue: Matsue Castle
www.matsuejc.jp
Monday, 9 October
Celtic Market in Autumn
Organised by THE MUSIC PLANT
Venue: Asakusa Lion Studio
www.mplant.com/celticmarket
From 14 October
Film: The Price of Desire
Venue: Bunkamura Le Cinema and more
14 October 2017
Ireland Trophy Stakes
The Embassy is delighted to confirm that the Ireland Trophy will return in 2017, with the support of the Japan Racing Association. For the first time the race has been upgraded to a Grade 2 status, and in 2017 we look forward to welcoming racing fans to a very special day at Tokyo Racecourse. Stay tuned for more information as the day approaches.
Saturday, 14 October
Concert: Irish Harp, Uilleann Pipes and Irish Dance
Organised by Kawasaki International Centre
Venue: Kawasaki International Centre
Saturday, 14 October – Sunday, 15 October
The 34th International Conference, IASIL Japan
Organised by IASIL (International Association for Studies of Irish Literatures) Japan
Venue: Kindai University (Higashi-osaka Campus)
Tuesday, 31 October
'Different voices: Irish composers and their traditions'
Lecture Concert by Dr. Martin O’Leary at Rikkyo University
Organised by College of Intercultural Communication, Rikkyo University
Venue: Room 5342, Building 5, Rikkyo University
http://icc.rikkyo.ac.jp/english/
November
Saturdays 4 and 18 November
Féile mhór
Organised by Yoshio Takahata
Venue: Clare Home & Garden (4 November, Tokyo), Studio & Gallery timeblue (18 November, Osaka)
www.oberon-kingdom.jp
Saturdays 11 and 18 November
Japan-Ireland 60 at Toyo
Organised by Department of English and American Literature, Toyo University
Venue: Inoue Enryo Hall / 125 Memorial Hall, Toyo University
www.toyo.ac.jp
Monday, 20 November – Friday, 24 November
Symposium: Current trends in Optical and X-Ray metrologies of key enabling nanomaterials/devices for the Ubiquitous Society, Renewable Energy and Health
Okayama Convention Centre
http://www.ec.okayama-u.ac.jp/~sense/OptoXNANO/
Tuesday, 28 November
Seminar “Women leaders: taking on challenges and finding solutions”
Tsuda University
Tuesday, 28 November
Ireland Meets Japan: W.B. Yeats, Lafcadio Hearn and Kyogen in Matsue
Organised by Sanin Japan Ireland Association, Culture Foundation of Shimane Prefecture, Shimane Prefectural Government
Venue: Shimane Civic Centre
www.sanin-japan-ireland.org
November-December
Celtic Christmas 2017 - The Chieftains 55th Anniversary tour
Join in the celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan by coming to see the world's greatest traditional Irish music band, the Chieftains! These legends of traditional music will mark 55 years on the road together in 2017, and on this long awaited return visit to Japan are sure to be a huge attraction for the many, many fans of Irish music here!
www.plankton.co.jp/chieftains
Tuesday 5 December
Ireland-Japan 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations. Book Launch Lecture “Ireland and Japan: 1957-2017”
Co-Organised by Embassy of Ireland, Waseda University (Institute of Irish Studies, ICC, International Division)
Venue: Waseda University, Okuma Auditorium
https://www.waseda.jp/top/en-news/55932
Monday 11 December
Talk with the Irish Ambassador
Organised by Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
Venue: Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
http://www.tufs.ac.jp/event/gakunai/post_1116.html
Saturday 16 December
Conor’s Lecture for International Understanding: Ireland, Beautiful Nature
Organised by Kanagawa Plaza for Global Citizenship (Earth Plaza)
Venue: Kanagawa Plaza for Global Citizenship (Earth Plaza)
http://www.earthplaza.jp/english/
Irish Traditional Music Workshop and Christmas Live by John John Festival
Organised by Sanin Japan-Ireland Association
Venue: (Music Workshop) Karakoro Art Studio, (Live) Gallery Matsue Seikoin-shita
www.sanin-japan-ireland.org
As part of the preparations for this year of friendship, a public competition was held to select the official anniversary logo.
Selected out of the 548 entries submitted, the winning design was created by Mr Peter McBride, a graphic designer and photographer who lives in Dublin. The "Harp-Sun" logo symbolises Japan (Sun) and Ireland (Harp) in equal harmony, united to represent solidarity. The Sakura growing beautifiully between the shamrocks on the pillar represents the Irish welcome of the growth of Japanese culture. Likewise, the Irish Harp leaning confidently against the Sun represents the strong support shown by Japan towards Ireland.
The logo will be used throughout 2017, and for all communications related to events associated with the anniversary. Officially recognised events commemorating the anniversary will be entitled to use the official title "Commemorative event of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan" and the logo in all publicity materials.
Event Endorsement Guidelines for the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan in 2017.
Organisers of events will be entitled to use the official name "Commemorative event of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan" in all publicity materials including posters, pamphlets, websites, signboards, and banners. The terms for the granting of official recognition are as follows:
Eligibility
- Events should take place in Ireland or Japan between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017.
- Events should aim to promote and strengthen Ireland-Japan relations in various fields.
- Events should not advocate any particular principle, ideology or religion. They should not violate public order or standards of decency.
- Events should not be mainly profit-oriented.
- Costs must be fully borne by the organisers.
Privileges of the Event's Recognition
- The recognised event will be allowed to use the title of "Commemorative event of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan" as well as the official logo of the 60th anniversary in respective publicity materials (posters, pamphlets, websites, billboards, banners, etc.)
- The recognised event will be registered in the Official List of the "Events commemorating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan". (It will be publicised on the Embassy website etc.)
How to get approval
- The necessary documents together with the following documents should be submitted to the Embassy of Ireland in Japan (in the case of events held in Japan), or the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland Commemorative Events Steering Committee (in the case of events held in Ireland) 1 month prior to the date of the planned event.
- The Embassy of Ireland in Japan or the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland Commemorative Events Steering Committee, after such review, will report to the applicant in written form.
- Within one week following completion of the event, please submit several photographs (for use on the Embassy website etc.).
- With three months following expiration of the date of the event, please submit a summary report. (If it is not possible to submit a summary report within three months for organisational reasons, you are required to submit an interim report and an explanation of the reason why it is not possible. A summary report must be submitted when it becomes possible to do so.)
- Application Form, Pledge Form and Pledge Logo Form. Applications must be submitted in English unless specified.
- Details of the event (outline/description of the event)
- Information on the organiser (outline/description and statute of the organisation, past activities)
- Associated profits and expenses
Please contact the Embassy for further information.
The Embassy of Ireland in Japan or the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland Commemorative Events Steering Committee will review the application based on the General Guidelines.
Address for submission of applications and enquiries
(1) For events held in Japan:
Embassy of Ireland in Japan
Ireland House, 2-10-7, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan
Tel: +81-(0)3-3263-0695
Fax: +81-(0)3-3265-2275
(2) For events held in Ireland:
60th anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Ireland Commemorative Events Steering Committee
Embassy of Japan in Ireland
Nutley Building, Merrion Centre, Nutley Lane, Dublin 4, D04 RP73, Ireland
Tel: +353-(0)1 202 8300
Fax:+353-(0)1 202 8350
Please also see: www.ie.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000330.html
Notes
- We are unable to return applications, so we recommend you to keep a copy for your own reference.
- Any enquiries regarding the screening process will not be responded to.
- Should the event be cancelled or in the case of a substantive change which does not comply with the criteria for endorsement, the endorsement and permission for use of the logo and official title may be withdrawn.
- The organiser will be fully responsible for all aspects of the event.