Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata

[Japan’s Tiny Cars That Changed Urban Mobility]

Japan developed a unique category of ultra-compact vehicles known as kei cars (“lightweight”cars) to make car ownership affordable and practical for everyday use. Introduced in 1949, these cars follow strict size and engine limits, making them much smaller and more efficient than regular vehicles. Their design is especially suited to Japan’s narrow roads, limited parking spaces, and densely populated cities. Features like compact bodies, convenient function such as Fold-flat seats and sliding doors, and low running costs have made them popular among a wide range of users, from families to delivery workers. Today, kei cars are also influencing the future of transportation, as their energy-efficient design and smaller environmental footprint make them an important part of sustainable mobility.

Click here to know more: https://web-japan.org/trends/11_tech-life/202510_compact-cars.html

【The Japanese Wedding Kimono: A Bride in White, A Bride in Colour】

Kimono is a traditional garment and the national dress of Japan. However, most Japanese wear Kimono on special occasions, such as at wedding ceremonies, on New Year’s Day and so on.

In traditional Japanese weddings, the bride often wears two very different kimono — each with its own meaning. The white kimono, called shiromuku, represents purity and the idea that the bride is ready to “take on the colours” of her new family. It is simple, elegant, and entirely white, including accessories. Later, she may change into a colourful kimono such as the iro-uchikake, richly decorated with cranes, flowers, or seasonal motifs. This second outfit symbolizes joy, prosperity, and a new beginning.

Together, these two looks tell a quiet story — of leaving one life behind and stepping into another.

Click here to know more: https://kimonofest.com/the-cultural-significance-of-wedding-kimonos-in-japan/

【Enjoy Japanese Films at Home! ✨】
Have you ever watched a Japanese film online on JFF Theater?
Japan Foundation offers Indian residents an incredible opportunity to watch a wide range of Japanese movies on its FREE streaming platform!
No downloads. No payments! Explore the art of Japanese cinema with just one click.

How about enjoying Japanese cinema from the comfort of your home this hot summer?

For more detail and registration, please check the JFF Theater website https://en.jff.jpf.go.jp/.

[Consul General ISHIKAWA Visits Netaji Birthplace Museum]

On May 20, Consul General ISHIKAWA visited the Netaji Birthplace Museum in Cuttack, Odisha.
He was deeply moved to learn how Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, born in Cuttack, travelled across the world in pursuit of India’s independence and established deep ties with Japan.

【Consul General ISHIKAWA visits Factory of Toray MAS Apparel India Private Limited】

On May 19, Consul-General ISHIKAWA visited Toray MAS Apparel India Private Limited (TOMA) in Odisha, a joint venture between Japan’s Toray Industries Inc. and Sri Lanka’s MAS Holdings. He was briefed on the garment factory, which is expected to begin operations January 2027, and toured the facility currently under construction.

【Seasons Reflected in Water: Japanese Artist Toyoto FURUHASHI’s Watercolour Exhibition in Kolkata】

Experience the beauty of Japan’s changing seasons through the serene watercolour landscapes of Japanese artist Mr. Toyoto FURUHASHI at Waterscapes- an exhibition depicting delicate riversides, light, shadow, and seasonal colours, which offers a glimpse into the beauty of the natural world.

All are welcome!

【Courtesy call on Hon’ble Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha】

On May 20, 2026, Consul General ISHIKAWA Yoshihisa paid a courtesy call on Hon’ble Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha. They discussed ways of strengthening relations between Japan and the State of Odisha, covering investment by Japanese companies, economic cooperation, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

On the following day, May 21, he held talks with Mrs. Anu Garg, Chief Secretary of Odisha, and discussed people-to-people exchanges in greater detail.

【A Gel That Could Change Surgery】

Click here to know more: https://www.japan.go.jp/kizuna/2025/08/next-generation_gel_transform_future.html

【Learn to Teach Japanese Language Professionally】
The Japan Foundation, New Delhi has announced admissions for the 11th batch of the Teacher’s Training Course A (TTC-A). This 360-hour course is designed for existing and aspiring Japanese language teachers who wish to develop fundamental Japanese language teaching skills.
🗓 Course Duration: 3 August 2026 – 12 March 2027
🕘 Schedule: 3 weekdays (9:30 AM – 4:30 PM)
📍 Mode: Online
📌 Application: 17 June 2026
The course focuses on teaching methodology and practical classroom training for those interested in teaching Japanese language in the future. Please read the application guidelines carefully before applying.
🔗 Details & Application: https://nd.jpf.go.jp/three-fields/japanese-language/workshop-training-programme/workshop-training-program-ttca/

【Four Seasons, Four Vegetables: Japan’s Love for Seasonal Food】

In Japan, the idea of eating ingredients at their seasonal peak is called shun, and many vegetables symbolize different times of the year. In spring, bamboo shoots (takenoko) appear briefly and are often simmered with soy sauce or cooked with rice. In summer, cucumbers become common for their refreshing taste and are frequently served in simple salads or pickles to cool the body. In autumn, sweet potatoes (satsumaimo) are a seasonal favourite and are often roasted as yakiimo, a warm street snack. In winter, daikon radish is widely used in comforting dishes like soups and hot pots (nabe). These seasonal vegetables highlight freshness, nutrition, and the deep cultural connection between food and the changing seasons.

Click here to know more: https://sakura.co/blog/japanese-seasonal-vegetables-greens-for-every-season