On May 23, a group of volunteers from our katedra invited Japanese residents of Zagreb and the surrounding region, along with others who have close ties to Japan, into our school for a cultural exchange event with our Japanology students. Around 40 participants of all ages and backgrounds came together, and through cooking, handicrafts, and cultural presentations, it was a warm and lively day from start to finish.

The day featured the following four activities.

First, we held a hands-on Okonomiyaki and Onigiri making session. Participants grilled Okonomiyaki (savory Japanese pancakes) and shaped Onigiri (rice balls) together, then gathered around the finished dishes to enjoy them. As students and guests cooked side by side, conversation flowed naturally, and everyone got to experience the flavors of Japanese home cooking by both making and tasting them. So many people said “I’d love to make this myself” that the session reminded us once again how strongly our students are drawn to Japanese food culture.

Next came a workshop on making Japanese-style coasters from kimono fabric, led by Ms. Maki Yamaguchi, an exchange student from Meiji Gakuin University who is currently studying in Croatia. Using the beautiful kimono remnants she had brought from Japan, participants stitched their coasters one by one with needle and thread. Choosing their favorite cloth from an array of colorful traditional patterns, each person sewed away until they had completed a one-of-a-kind coaster.

The second half featured two presentations by our Japanology students. First, second-year student Roko Rakuljić gave a talk titled “Weddings in Contemporary Croatia.” Using photographs from his own family’s weddings, he offered a clear and engaging introduction to wedding customs, celebrations, and special dishes.
Next, first-year student Noemi Venus Vendler spoke on the theme “Japanese Dishes I Want to Learn About and Make,” sharing the Japanese foods that most interest her.
The two of them brought even more energy to the gathering, and the audience responded with lively comments, questions, and warm applause.

Through cooking, handicrafts, and exchange centered on the Japanese language and culture, this was a day when Croatia and Japan came together. The room was filled with freshly made dishes, the handmade Japanese-style coasters everyone had created, and a great many smiles. It is our sincere hope that this event will be the starting point for new and growing friendships among all who took part.

We would also like to acknowledge the considerable support we received in preparing this event — both from the Japanese volunteers who regularly assist in our Japanese language classes and from the dedicated members of our faculty. To everyone who joined and helped make the day a success, we extend our heartfelt thanks.