2012-02-06 16:52:03 -

The Government of Japan has held "Cool Japan Presentation with KODO" as part of "JAPAN NEXT" campaign on February 4-5 in Munich, Germany. "JAPAN NEXT" campaign is designed to express Japan's gratitude to the world for its support for the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11 th 2011 (3/11) and showcase Japan's recovery through introduction of Japan's proud culture and technology which are referred to as "Cool Japan." A variety of events and festivals will be conducted under "JAPAN NEXT" campaign all over the world from February to March 2012 (See attachments).

"Cool Japan Presentation with KODO" is one of the events under "JAPAN NEXT" campaign in cooperation with performance of "KODO" in the Europe—a group of Japanese traditional drummers as a cheering group for the campaign.

At Philharmonie München in Munich where KODO performed the powerful drums, an exhibition to introduce the appeal of Japanese traditional culture and food was displayed in the venue and Japanese green tea and sweets were also served there as "Cool Japan Presentation with KODO." More than 1,300 of the audience in total for 2 days could enjoy Japanese culture with their eyes and tongue at the presentation area. The strong message from Japan that it is recovering from 3/11 was well received by a number of the audience.

"Japanese people in the damaged area of 3/11 have exerted themselves to reconstruct their home town facing the cruel reality since last March.

How strong and considering their hearts are to look at the future and support each other is very inspiring to us. By the powerful sound of our drums, we will deliver the strength of the Japanese people taking a step toward the country's recovery little by little and our sincere gratitude for world's heartfelt support to people around the world," said Mr.

Tomohiro Mitome, a representative of KODO.

The next presentation will take place at the National Concert Hall in Dublin, Ireland on February 11-12.

About "COOL JAPAN" STRATEGY


In recent years, the people in the world have praised and admired some aspects of the distinctive Japanese sense of beauty and unique tradition of culture as reflected in fashion, products, food, traditional culture, design and the arts calling them "Cool Japan." The Government of Japan considers "Cool Japan Strategy" designed to spread and deliver "Cool Japan" throughout the world as one of the important strategies for Japan's economic growth. As "Cool Japan" will also play significant roles for Japan's recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake of March 11 th 2011(3/11), the Japanese government has started to work on a policy in relation with "Cool Japan" to rebuild Japan and communicate with the world on the recovery of the country and Japan brands.

About "JAPAN NEXT" Campaign


As part of "Cool Japan Strategy", the Japanese government carries "JAPAN NEXT" campaign to deliver "Cool Japan" and express their wholeheartedly gratitude to the worldwide community for its supports, conducting various events and festivals all over the world. The strong determination of the Japanese people in overcoming the severe damage of 3/11 is infused into the word, "JAPAN NEXT" as a message.

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