



DUBAI: A wonderful Japanese traditional event was held on Jan. 17 at Konjiki Hototogisu restaurant in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates. Organized by Al Dahlia Kimono, the event featured kimonos, kakizome (Japanese calligraphy), and origami.
“It was a new year event with Japanese-style celebrations,” Motoko, founder of Al Dahlia Kimono, said about the event. “In Japan, the first 3 days of the new year are the most common time for everyone to wear a kimono, visit shrines, and offer prayers for good wishes in the new year ahead. This occasion was the main inspiration for this event, as there aren’t many places that provide this type of event here in Dubai.”
“We find it quite difficult to decide the event details, especially finding a location that can accommodate enough space for free so that I do not have to charge entrance fees to our guests for events. Coordinating with multiple parties also meant there were many last-minute changes; because of this, there was not enough time to advertise before the event. If we could plan events in advance, we can focus more on improving the event itself and enhancing it, providing more options, and making it the best experience for our clients,” she added.
About the response and feedback from the people who came to the event, Motoko said: “Many people love Japanese culture, and many guests asked questions and were happy to interview a native Japanese person directly. We are the first company in the UAE to bring the authentic kimono experience to these events. Many are happy to see and experience the full kimono style for the first time in Dubai. Many are amazed at the beauty and details of high-quality kimono fabric, which they’ve never seen before with their own eyes.”
Regarding her upcoming activities, Motoko said, “I’m planning to do more events following traditional Japanese celebrations around the year, like Setsubun (bean-throwing ceremony), Hinamatsuri (Japanese doll festival), Tanabata (star festival), etc. that still rarely happen in the UAE.”
“At each event, we can explain the meaning behind the celebration and how it is celebrated in Japan, so people can learn more about our traditional culture, little by little. We are really happy to share our culture with everyone,” she added.