HOI AN  (VNS) — This central city's art troupe will take part in the 12th annual Hoi An-Japan Cultural Festival in Osaka, Japan, on Saturday and Sunday.

City authorities said a group of 35 members, including officials, dancers, folk performers and craft artisans, will perform onstage at the festival, to be held at Xavier Park, Osyoji Street, Portus Garden and Family Garden in Sakai.

This will be the first time the festival to take place in Japan. The troupe will set up traditional art performances and community activities, including a "Try to Make a Lantern" presentation, a parade, Hoi An bingo game, photo exhibits of Hoi An, Now and Then, Sakura Flowers in Hoi An and a promotion for potential Japanese tourists.

The festival promotes a cultural exchange between Hoi An and Japan, which has had a long historic trading link with the city. The Japanese community in Hoi An City will also take part in the festival. — VNS