On June 1, 2025, more than 50 members of Saga University Center for Promotion of International Exchange enthusiastically participated in the “Sō Odori” dance performance. This diverse group included international students, Japanese students, and staff members. Their vibrant performance livened up the 54th “Sakae no Kuni Festival,” an annual event held in Saga City. While the festival is usually held in August, the day was fortunate to have beautiful early summer weather, making the festival even more enjoyable. Wearing matching Happi (traditional Japanese festival coats), the global team of international and Japanese students delivered a lively finale, performing three songs: “Hagakure Bon-uta,” “Saga ha yokatoko (samba style),” and “Sakae no Kunikara.”

The international students who participated in the festival danced and talked with local residents, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the festival as part of their cross-cultural exchange experience. Unfortunately, we did not win any prizes, but the students’ faces were full of smiles and a sense of accomplishment.

Group photo in front of Saga Balloon Museum