Latest news with #JapanCulturalDays
Leaders
06-03-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Ithra Secures Mostadam's Diamond Certification for Building Sustainability
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has recently secured the highest level of certification from the government's green building rating system, Mostadam. Remarkable Milestone This remarkable milestone has made Ithra Saudi Arabia's first project to achieve the top level of certification in the operations and existing buildings category, according to Ithra. Commenting on the certification, Abdullah Al-Buqami, technical services manager at Ithra, stated that the recognition stands as a testament to the management's dedication to making Ithra a model of sustainability. In this regard, Al-Buqami noted that innovation in design and environmental practices is the key factor of shaping the future. 'Being the only project receiving a certification in this category in Saudi Arabia is a major milestone in our sustainability journey, reinforcing our dedication to leading by example and inspiring others to elevate sustainability standards across the Kingdom,' he added. Mostadam Certification Ithra Secures Mostadam's Diamond Certification for Building Sustainability Basically, Mostadam awards its certification to existing projects that meet the highest environmental standards and mirror local values. This scheme represents a significant benchmark for environmental and social impacts. Moreover, it boosts sustainable practices through various aspects, as follows: Fostering energy and water efficiency Promoting environmental performance Improving resource management Decreasing carbon footprint Crucially, participating projects can secure one of five ratings, from green to diamond, based on their commitment to the sustainability criteria. Developed by the Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs and Housing, the Mostadam program is tailored to the local climate and environmental conditions. Interestingly, the program enhances sustainability in building practices. In addition, it seeks to foster the efficiency of energy, water as well as resource usage. In line with the Saudi Vision 2030, Mostadam also strengthens economic growth and creates job opportunities as well. Related Topics: Celebrating Identity: Ithra to Host 11th Saudi Film Festival in April Japan Cultural Days Attracts Over 200k Visitors at Ithra Japanese Vintage Car Exhibition Draws Visitors at Ithra Short link : Post Views: 4
Leaders
25-02-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia, Japan Celebrate 70-Year Anniversary with Naval Reception
Ambassador of Japan to Saudi Arabia Yasunari Morino has celebrated the nation's 70 years of ties with the Kingdom in collaboration with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Capt. Shinsuke Amano, according to Arab News. Both officials hosted a special reception on Feb. 23, on board the Japanese vessel JS Bungo. Therefore, the event played a pivotal role in deepening the ties between the JMSDF and the Royal Saudi Naval Forces. It highlighted the attendance of various government officials, naval officers, as well as businesspeople. Morino described the reception as a 'significant event,' marking the ship's first visit in seven years. He also noted that it stands as a testament to the friendly relations between the two countries.' Meanwhile, Amano expressed his delight at visiting the Kingdom and described it as 'leading the Arab and Islamic world and playing a pivotal role in peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond.' Amano also stressed Japan's dedication to maintaining regional stability and prosperity and developing the safety of maritime navigation. Related Topics: Japan Cultural Days Attracts Over 200k Visitors at Ithra KAUST Secures Japan Prize for its Advanced Marine Ecosystem Research Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Highlights Strengthening Defense Cooperation Short link : Post Views: 64 Related Stories
Arab News
08-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Ithra's Japan Cultural Days draws more than 200k visitors to Dhahran
DHAHRAN: Ithra's Japan Cultural Days concluded on Saturday after a dynamic 17-day run, offering visitors a deep and immersive experience into Japanese arts, traditions and contemporary culture. The event, which began on Jan. 23, attracted more than 200,000 visitors in its first 10 days. Japanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Morino Yasunari toured the exhibitions, engaged with artists and cultural representatives, and highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties between the two countries. His visit underscored the significance of the festival in fostering dialogue and mutual appreciation. The program featured a wide range of activities for both children and adults, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages. Families took part in hands-on craft workshops, traditional calligraphy, origami and manga drawing sessions, while younger visitors enjoyed storytelling sessions featuring Japanese folktales and legends. One of the most anticipated performances came from Drum Tao, the globally renowned Japanese drumming ensemble known for its powerful stage presence and theatrical performances. The group combined traditional taiko drumming with modern choreography and lighting effects, delivering a high-energy spectacle that captivated audiences. A metaverse experience in Ithra's plaza allowed visitors to explore virtual Japanese markets and cultural celebrations. The festival also explored Japanese storytelling through literature and anime. Several sessions on Japanese literature highlighted its unique introspective nature, referencing authors like Haruki Murakami. Music played a central role in the festival, with performances ranging from the meditative tones of the shakuhachi flute to high-energy drum ensembles. Visitors also explored Japanese culinary traditions, gaining insights into the precision and artistry behind dishes such as sushi and wagashi. One of the most celebrated workshops covered kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. Attendees were invited to transform shattered ceramics into decorative pieces, embracing the philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection. Ithra's Japan Cultural Days featured many other activities, ensuring that visitors could engage with Japan's cultural heritage through a variety of creative, educational and interactive experiences.
Arab News
07-02-2025
- Automotive
- Arab News
Japanese car exhibition zooms into Ithra
DHAHRAN: Ithra, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, is presenting a special vintage car exhibition, which began on Thursday. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ The exhibition is part of the Japan Cultural Days event, hosted at Ithra headquarters in Dhahran to celebrate 70 years of Japan-Saudi relations. The exhibition is being held outdoors in the Energy Exhibit area, which provides a distinctive setting for this unique display. Maha Abdulhadi, creative programs specialist at Ithra, told Arab News: 'With help from Japanese classic car enthusiasts Ali Aldhamin and Nazar Alqlaf, we curated this display to showcase a broad range of vehicles that represent a significant chapter in the history of the Japanese car industry, which is highly appreciated in Saudi Arabia.' The exhibition features 13 cars, most of which are owned by private collectors in Qatif, and spans a variety of classic models, modern designs, and concept vehicles. 'This is a rare opportunity for car enthusiasts in the Kingdom to experience Japanese engineering and design up close,' Abdulhadi said. The display highlights the design, technology and innovative features of Japanese vehicles, with the cars available for viewing from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day. 'This unique exhibit showcases Japan's innovative designs, precision engineering, and passion for performance, enhancing the festival experience,' Abdulhadi said. 'A Japanese car show as part of the Japan Cultural Days highlights Japan's rich automotive heritage, fosters community engagement, and promotes cultural exchange. It also attracts car enthusiasts.' The exhibition ends on February 8, marking the conclusion of the Japan Cultural Days celebration.
Arab News
05-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Ithra hosts screening of Japanese indie horror hit
DHAHRAN: As a part of Japan Cultural Days in Dhahran, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Ithra, recently hosted a special screening of the 2017 film 'One Cut of the Dead.' It was followed by an exclusive Q&A with director Shinichiro Ueda. 'One key point is that this film was created as part of an acting workshop we conducted, and then we made a film with the participants,' Ueda told the crowd. 'As a result, there were no casting costs. We also assembled a strong team from within the workshop, which helped keep the budget low,' he said. The event gave audiences a rare opportunity to explore the film's creative process, behind-the-scenes secrets, and the journey that turned this indie film into an international phenomenon. 'For the protagonist's house, we used my own home, and as for the baby … that was my own child." 'Yes, 'One Cut of the Dead' was indeed shot in one continuous take,' he confirmed, earning applause from the audience. At first glance, it seems like a typical horror movie — a film crew shooting a bloody zombie film in an abandoned location, complete with exaggerated movements and endless screams — only to find themselves caught in a real zombie outbreak. Chaos ensues as they struggle to survive, all while the cameras keep rolling. However, nothing is as it seems. Before the screening, audiences at Ithra were advised not to be deterred by the seemingly chaotic and confusing beginning. 'You will be rewarded after the first 40 minutes, and it will all make sense,' an announcement assured viewers before the 96-minute film began. The film's innovative structure and execution have made it a favorite among directors who appreciate smart and unconventional filmmaking. American filmmaker and actor Quentin Tarantino called it one of his favorite films of the year. Edgar Wright, director of 'Shaun of the Dead,' highlighted its clever storytelling, and Rian Johnson, director of 'Knives Out' and 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi,' praised its creativity. For the discussion, Ueda wore a Saudi thobe and shemagh, joining several of the film's actors, along with a moderator and translator. They explored how the film defied genre conventions, blending horror and comedy with an inventive storytelling structure that surprised audiences worldwide. The film won multiple honors, including the Audience Award at the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival and Best Director at the Fantaspoa International Fantastic Film Festival. Dammam resident Ahmed Albather shared his excitement with Arab News about finally watching the 2017 classic he had heard so much about. 'I heard about this screening and came specifically to watch it. The film is said to be one of the best Japanese indie zombie films of the last decade, if not longer. I love Japanese movies, so I had to come,' Albather said. 'This is my first visit to Ithra's Japan Cultural Days, and I am really impressed by it and how they brought the director to talk to us here,' he added. The film is being showcased in its original Japanese with Arabic and English subtitles. For those who missed the event, 'One Cut of the Dead' will have another screening at Ithra Cinema on Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m., without the director's talk. Tickets can be purchased through the Ithra website or at the venue.
