Japan dolls debut in Cambodia

PHNOM PENH (Kyodo) Japanese dolls were introduced for the first time to Cambodia on Tuesday as part of activities to mark Mekong-Japan Exchange Year 2009.

At the launch of the Japanese Dolls Exhibition in Phnom Penh, Kazuo Chujo, a councilor at the Japanese Embassy, said he hopes many Cambodians view the traditional, beautiful Japanese dolls that will be exhibited until Sept. 21.

"Traditional appreciation for dolls has resulted in a belief that dolls are not only children's toys but also works of art to be displayed and admired," he said.

He said Japan enjoys a rich culture of dolls, each with its own distinct meaning and purpose deeply connected to daily life.

According to Chujo, Japanese dolls are characterized by serene and delicate facial expressions and beautiful colors that show the richness of ancient costumes and pageantry.

The exhibition features about 70 dolls depicting Japanese traditions such as the Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) and noh and kabuki dramas.

Yan Ny, director of Santhormuk Primary School, one of the largest schools in Phnom Penh, said at the exhibition he was impressed by the Japanese dolls as they are completely different from Cambodian ones in terms of character and style.

For Mekong-Japan Exchange Year 2009, various cultural events, including academic forums and youth programs, are being held in Japan and Mekong-region countries Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar.

Source: The Japan Times