Ibaraki University International Students Join “Mai Ami Festival 2025”!

On Sunday, August 3, 2025, 15 international students and 2 Japanese students from Ibaraki University participated in Mai Ami Festival 2025, one of the biggest summer events in Ami Town, with the warm support of the Ami International Exchange Association. It was a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange and community engagement, leaving the students with unforgettable memories.

The day began with a dance rehearsal in preparation for the evening’s main event—the dance parade. The students practiced three dances: Ami Ondo, Shin-Ami Ondo, and the ever-joyful Matsuken Samba. Thanks to video tutorials shared in advance, the students were well-prepared and completed the two-hour rehearsal in just one hour! Still, many of them enthusiastically said, “We want to dance more!” and “Let’s practice again!”

After the rehearsal, the students had the chance to try on yukata (summer kimono), kindly provided by the Ami International Exchange Association. For many of the international students, it was their first time wearing a yukata, and their excitement was evident. As they slipped into the colorful garments, smiles and exclamations of “So beautiful!” and “Take a photo!” filled the room. Experiencing traditional Japanese culture firsthand lifted everyone’s spirits.

Upon arriving at the festival venue, the students were greeted by rows of food stalls and a lively, festive atmosphere. They enjoyed classic Japanese summer treats like kakigōri (shaved ice) and ringo-ame (candied apples). There were also food stalls offering dishes from the students’ home countries, and many were delighted to taste nostalgic flavors that reminded them of home.

The highlight of the evening was the dance parade, held on a street closed off for the event. Dressed in yukata, the students showcased the results of their practice with energetic and joyful performances. As they danced alongside local residents, calling out “Sore!” and singing “Olé, Olé, Matsuken Samba!”, their smiles lit up the night. It was a heartwarming scene that reflected how the students were immersing themselves in Japanese culture and becoming part of the local community.

During a break in the dancing, the Mayor of Ami Town kindly approached the students and engaged them in friendly conversation. They talked about life in the town and their experiences with Japanese culture, creating a memorable moment for the students. It was a warm and welcoming exchange that deepened their sense of connection with the local community.

Many international students shared their impressions afterward, saying, “It was so much fun!”, “I’m happy I got to experience Japanese culture!”, and “The local people were so kind—it really moved me.” Through this festival, the students deepened their connections with the community and gained a meaningful and colorful experience during their time in Japan.