By Anica Hattingh
Japanese culture is one that emphasises the importance of heritage, tradition and etiquette. Group harmony, respect for hierarchy and elders, and politeness through indirect communication, such as bowing and punctuality, are a few of the key things in Japanese culture. On 25 October, the Stellenbosch University Japan Centre (SUJC), in collaboration with the Office of Consul of Japan in Cape Town, hosted a cultural day highlighting the various elements that are unique to Japanese culture.
Japan Day 2025, held at Die Stal in Stellenbosch, featured a vibrant programme of performances, demonstrations, exhibitions and workshops. The day opened with remarks from Masahiro Katamoto, Consul and Head of the Office of Consul of Japan in Cape Town, and Professor Scarlett Cornelissen, Director of the SUJC.
Cornelissen, shared that Japan Day was an “expression and celebration of Japanese culture.” She emphasised that the SUJC is dedicated to fostering academic, cultural and research collaboration between Japan and South Africa. The centre believes there is much to learn from Japan and its people – from their approaches to learning and working to their broader way of life. Through a range of initiatives, including cultural exchange programmes, the SUJC aims to deepen understanding and expand knowledge of Japan.
Visitors enjoyed traditional art forms such as a koto performance, karate and aikido demonstrations, as well as kyudo (Japanese archery) and kendo (swordsmanship). A highlight for many was the cosplay parade and competition, which brought modern Japanese pop culture to life.
The koto, a traditional string instrument, is one of Japan’s oldest and most elegant musical forms, often performed to evoke nature and emotion. Sumi-e, or Japanese ink painting, reflects the philosophy of simplicity and mindfulness, capturing the spirit of a subject with minimal brushstrokes. The exhibition also included a poster display commemorating 80 years since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki – an important reminder of Japan’s resilience, peace advocacy, and the global significance of remembrance.
Throughout the venue, beautifully curated exhibitions highlighted various elements of Japanese artistry and craftsmanship. Delicate bonsai displays demonstrated the patience and precision required to cultivate miniature trees, while elegant Ikebana flower arrangements showcased the refined balance, harmony and symbolism central to this ancient art form. In addition to the visual exhibitions, guests were invited to take part in a range of interactive workshops. Participants could try their hand at Mokuhanga (traditional woodblock printing), learning about the multi-step process of carving, inking and pressing their own prints. Visitors also enjoyed guided tea-tasting sessions, where they were introduced to the history, etiquette and calming ritual behind traditional Japanese tea culture.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Katamoto and Cornelissen, celebrating the success of another Japan Day – a day dedicated to deepening cultural understanding and appreciation between Japan and South Africa.
