Tag Archive for: Dublin

Business Briefing ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work’

On Thursday, 2nd May, the IJA invited members to join the business breakfast briefing on ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work’. This event was organised in collaboration with the IJA corporate member Cpl and Cpl’s Future of Work Institute.
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From L-R: Elysia Hegarty, Associate Director at Cpl’s Future of Work Institute, Cormac Reid, Program Manager, ElectroRoute, H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, Managing Director, ATTS, Raymond Hegarty, CEO, IntaVal and Ferenc Gál, Digital Marketing Director, Cpl.

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H.E. Mr Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, addressed event participants with a welcome speech followed by a panel discussion led by Elysia Hegarty, Associate Director at Cpl’s Future of Work Institute.
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Special thanks go to our panel of guest speakers – Raymond Hegarty (CEO, IntaVal), Catherine Grennell-Whyte (Managing Director, ATTS), Cormac Reid (Program Manager, ElectroRoute) and Ferenc Gál (Digital Marketing Director, Cpl) – for sharing their valuable insights and offering a glimpse into the world of AI and its inevitable impact on businesses and our professional lives right now and in the future.
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Panel discussed how Artificial Intelligence technologies can fundamentally revolutionise our workplaces and propel collaboration to new heights, fostering exciting innovations, driving new efficiencies, and enabling sustainable transformations. Thought-provoking details were also discussed about challenges we might face in the future, and how AI may reshape our lives in unexpected and potentially frightening ways.
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We thank everyone who joined us in person and remotely for this very exciting and insightful discussion.
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This event was organised in cooperation with:
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Experience Japan 2024 | Join the celebrations of Hanami Festival!

Experience Japan festival will be returning to the wonderful Farmleigh House, Phoenix Park, Dublin on Sunday, 28th April 12 – 4 PM.
Hanami Festival is a free, family-friendly day out where you can enjoy and celebrate Japanese – Irish culture!
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Join us in the beautiful grounds of Farmleigh House to witness performances, demonstrations, seminars, and traditions both old and in the making! All events are free and everybody is welcome!
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This year’s programme is packed with amazing events for everyone! 
  • Get ready to be dazzled by a mixture of Irish and Japanese music and dance performances.
  • A mixture of Japanese food vendors, from sweets to savoury. Of course, expect some classic options as well!
  • Demonstrations from a mixture of styles which originated in Japan, and are practised here in Ireland!
  • Enjoy a Treasure Hunt aimed at children or a more challenging Scavenger Hunt for adults!
  • Take a tour of traditional Japanese crafts which have found a home in Ireland.
  • Our tradition of reading verse under the cherry blossom continues this year.
  • A dedicated area in the Pleasure Gardens for practising your Japanese language skills, and meeting new friends!
  • An opportunity to see our many cosplayers all in one place! Taking place on the Martial Arts stage.

Please note that as a community festival, organisers cannot guarantee all activities and persons will be available on the day.

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HOW TO GET THERE?

The Hanami Festival 2024 is located in Farmleigh House, at the back of Phoenix Park, Dublin.

Please visit Experience Japan website for more details!

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Follow Experience Japan for more updates and news!
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Business Seminar ‘Driving Business Growth through Sustainability’ | PHOTO GALLERY

On 21st February, Ireland Japan Association and Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce (IJCC) invited their members to participate in the business seminar ‘Driving Business Growth through Sustainability’ which was hosted in Dublin by the IJA and IJCC member PwC Ireland. This was our second collaboration event with the Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce.

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From L-R: Dominic Keogh, IJCC, Mary Honohan, PwC Ireland, David Swan, Chief Operations & Sustainability Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, Jeff Aherne, CEO at EVHACS, Ruairi Williamson, Managing Director at Hitachi Energy, and Caoimhe Giblin, Commercial Director at ElectroRoute.

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H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, opened the event, and we were delighted to welcome a list of experts for the panel discussion: David Swan, Chief Operations & Sustainability Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, Caoimhe Giblin, Commercial Director at ElectroRoute, Jeff Aherne, CEO at EVHACS, and Ruairi Williamson, Managing Director at Hitachi Energy. Event was moderated by Dominic Keogh, IJCC.

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During event our experts shared examples and case studies of how their companies are using sustainability as a driver for business growth and what the future holds for sustainability, offering first-hand access to industry leading practices that can be adapted for businesses across Ireland. Discussions were followed by Q&A session and networking.

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H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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David Swan, Chief Operations & Sustainability Officer, SMBC Aviation Capital

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Jeff Aherne, CEO, EVHACS

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Ruairi Williamson, Managing Director, Hitachi Energy

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Caoimhe Giblin, Commercial Director, ElectroRoute

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Moderator of the event: Dominic Keogh, IJCC

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We would like to thank our partners – Dominic Keogh and his team at the IJCC, and our wonderful hosts – Mary Honohan and her team at PwC Ireland for all their support and work to make this event such a great success.

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Photos: Azumi Uchitani

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IJA Bounenkai End of Year Party 2023 | Photo Gallery

On 30th November the IJA members and friends joined our annual Bounenkai End of the Year Party which was hosted at one of the most popular and authentic Japanese restaurants in Dublin – Daruma.

Hiro Ino, IJA Council, thanked the guests for their support to the association and invited everyone to enjoy themselves and celebrate the end of the year at Daruma. We were delighted that H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Japanese Ambassador to Ireland, and Ms. Keiko Nakata, Embassy of Japan, joined our Bounenkai celebrations. Ambassador Maruyama addressed event guests and wished everyone a wonderful evening.
Event guests were treated to a traditional Japanese Izakaya style dinner and had the opportunity to taste variety of Japanese sake.
We would like to thank everyone  – our individual and corporate members as well as friends and supporters who attended this event. We appreciate your continued support to the IJA throughout this year, and we are looking forward to many other occasions to meet in 2024!
A very big thanks goes to Hiro Ino, IJA Council, for his time, support and help to make this event such a great success, and the wonderful team at Daruma for hosting our event and making sure everyone had the best time during the evening.
Photos: Tsugumi Yamamoto, Kevin O’Neill

Business Seminar ‘Preparing for the next world EXPO in Osaka, Japan’ | PHOTO GALLERY

On 11th October, Ireland Japan Association and Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce (IJCC) invited their members to participate in the business seminar ‘Preparing for the next world EXPO in Osaka, Japan’ which was hosted in Dublin by the IJA and IJCC member PwC Ireland.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and Dominic Keogh, IJCC Director

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The panel of guest speakers included H.E. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, Yushi Tanaka, Executive Advisor to the Japan Association for the 2025 World Expo, John Concannon, Director General, Global Ireland, Department of Foreign Affairs, and Brian O’Brien, Commissioner General for EXPO Osaka, The Department of Foreign Affairs.

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From left: Yushi Tanaka, Executive Advisor to the Japan Association for the 2025 World Expo; John Concannon, Director General, Global Ireland, Department of Foreign Affairs; H.E. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland; Brian O’Brien, Commissioner General for EXPO Osaka, The Department of Foreign Affairs, and moderator Dominic Keogh, IJCC Director.

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Our guest speakers discussed Global Ireland strategy, reviewed the experience at Expo Dubai 2020, and introduced Expo Osaka 2025 sharing the latest information on the Irish Pavilion. Conversations were moderated by Dominic Keogh, IJCC Director. Presentations and discussions were followed by networking opportunities.

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We would like to thank our partners – Dominic Keogh and his team at the IJCC, and our wonderful hosts – Mary Honohan and her team at PwC Ireland for all their support and work to make this event such a great success.

 

This event was organised by:
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This event was supported by:

 

PHOTO GALLERY

(Please click on the image to enlarge it!)

Photos: IJA Council and IJCC archive

Summer Ikebana Workshop | PHOTO GALLERY

To celebrate summer and all the beautiful seasonal flowers, the IJA Council organised a beautiful, seasonal Summer Ikebana Workshop for our members. The workshop was presented by the IJA member and Ikebana instructor Mrs. Tomoko Ozaki on 26th August.

 

Workshop participants had a unique opportunity to learn about Ikebana traditions and principles, make their own Ikebana arrangement and change the way how they think about floral displays. We would like to thank everyone who attended this event and hope it was a great experience and learning opportunity for everyone.

A wonderful surprise for our workshop participants was the visit by H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, and Ms. Keiko Nakata, Embassy of Japan in Ireland.

 

 

We would like to thank Eva Reavley, IJA Council, for all her work and support to make this event such a success, and our event hosts – Oomi Travel – for welcoming us at their cosy and beautiful office, and looking after us during this event, and Gopan Bakery for very tasty Japanese baked treats.

 

Join Japanese Summer Fest celebrations this summer!

Mark your calendars and gather your friends and family for a day filled with Japanese cultural delights at the Japanese Summer Fest. Whether you’re a Japan enthusiast, a food lover, or simply curious about other cultures, this festival promises an unforgettable experience.

Experience the vibrant summer traditions and rich cultural heritage of Japan right here in Ireland!

Date: Saturday, 1st July 2023
Time: 12 – 4 PM
Venue: Cherrytree Pub, Walkinstown Cross, Walkinstown, Dublin 12, D12 EY19
Admission: FREE / Please note that there may be a charge for some activities.

 

 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and cultural delights of Japan with a plethora of exciting activities!

Mouthwatering Japanese Cuisine
Savor the delicious flavors of Japan with a selection of authentic Japanese dishes. We have carefully curated a menu featuring a few tantalizing Japanese delicacies that will transport your taste buds to Japan. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Japan!

Bon Odori (盆踊り) – Traditional Japanese Dance
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as we celebrate Bon Odori, a traditional Japanese dance performed during the summer festival season. Join the spirited circle dance with fellow festival-goers. Let the rhythm of the music guide your steps and experience the joy of this cultural tradition.

Origami and Calligraphy Workshop
Discover the beauty of Japanese art forms through our origami and calligraphy workshop. Learn the art of folding intricate origami designs and master the graceful strokes of calligraphy. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process.

Tanabata – Make Your Wishes Come True
Participate in the enchanting Tanabata celebration, where you can write your wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches. Feel the magic in the air as the festival brings together people’s hopes and dreams, creating a tapestry of aspirations.

Sushi Demonstration
Ever wondered how to create perfect sushi rolls? Attend our sushi demonstration and watch as our skilled sushi chefs unveil the artistry behind this beloved Japanese culinary delight. Learn the techniques, appreciate the precision, and gain insights into the world of sushi-making.

Suikawari – Watermelon Splitting Game
Cool down with a fun and refreshing game of Suikawari, a traditional Japanese activity where participants are blindfolded and attempt to split a watermelon with a stick. Unleash your inner competitor and see if you can strike the sweet spot!

Japanese Language Theatre – Ordinary People 普通の人々
Be captivated by the magic of Japanese language theatre as talented performers take the stage to showcase traditional and contemporary plays. Let the expressive gestures and melodious tones transport you to the world of Japanese drama and storytelling. Please book a ticket here!

 

For more information and event programme:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/japanese-summer-fest-in-cherrytree-pub-tickets-649911963177

Japanese Calligraphy Workshop 2023 | Photo Gallery

On 22nd April, the IJA organised Japanese Calligraphy Workshop together with artist, educator and writer Azumi Uchitani. Participants were invited to learn the ancient wisdom and value of Japanese symbols, unplug from every day’s hustles and bustles, and experience a ritual with a brush and ink on paper.
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During the workshop everyone had a chance to learn basic principles and techniques of calligraphy, including different brush strokes, practice body movements and mindful meditation, as well as practice calligraphy and create their own calligraphy art.
Huge thanks to our inspiring teacher Azumi san for bringing everyone on a mindful journey to discover this very unique and wonderful part of Japanese culture, and sharing her knowledge, skills and passion! Calligraphy workshop was followed by a tea & coffee break, and wonderful musical performance on violin by Kevin O’Neill.
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Our event was hosted by ElectroRoute, IJA Patron member, and we would like to thank our hosts for welcoming us and looking after everyone on the day.
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(Click on the images to enlarge!)

Japanese Film Festival 2023

The Japanese Film Festival 2023 returns for its 14th edition this April, with an exciting programme that will bring the best of Japanese cinema to audiences across Ireland.

Ireland’s only truly national film festival will showcase more than 20 films this year, from the latest anime hits to exciting indie discoveries. The festival will run from April 8 – 28, with screenings in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Sligo, Waterford, Dundalk and – for the first time – Wexford town.

 

 

The festival includes screenings of powerful drama A Man, which recently won eight awards – including Best Film – at the Japan Academy Film Prize ceremony in Tokyo, the acclaimed superhero reboot Shin Ultraman, and exciting new anime titles such as Blue Thermal and The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes.

Whether you’re a festival regular or have never been before, we can’t wait to welcome you at our screenings.

Dundalk – An Táin Arts Centre: April 8
Limerick – Belltable: April 12-13
Sligo – Sligo Film Society @ The Model Arts Centre: April 13
Cork – Triskel Christchurch: April 15 and Gate Cinema: April 24-27
Waterford – Garter Lane: April 18-19
Wexford – Wexford Arts Centre: April 20 & 25
Galway – Pálás: April 20-23 and Eye Cinema: April 24-28
Dublin – Light House Cinema: April 20-27

The full list of film screenings is available here: https://www.jff.ie/screenings.html

 

“As the newly appointed ambassador, I am delighted to hear that Irish audiences have enjoyed previous Japanese Film Festivals in Ireland. I am looking forward to visiting Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Sligo, Waterford, Dundalk and Wexford where the 2023 Japanese Film Festival is taking place and seeing many of the films on offer this year. I would like to thank access>CINEMA for all their commitment and hard work devoted to making the Japanese Film Festival such a successful annual event since we started our collaboration in 2008. I hope that everyone will enjoy this year’s films and get to know more about Japanese life and culture.” – Mr Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

 

 

“After the disruption of the past 3 years, we’re excited to be finally able to return our Festival activity to pre-pandemic levels, and are grateful to everyone who loyally supported us during that difficult period. JFF has always been about bringing the diversity of contemporary Japanese cinema to Ireland, and this year we’ve pulled out all of the stops to ensure that the programme has something for everyone. As ever, we’re delighted to be able to bring the Festival to sites across Ireland – with Wexford a new addition to the schedule this year. Whether you’re a Festival regular or have never been before, we can’t wait to welcome you at our screenings nationally.” – Maeve Cooke, director of access>CINEMA

 

More information: https://www.jff.ie/

JFF 2023 is co-organised by The Embassy of Japan and access>CINEMA .

Evening with Japanese renowned writer and film director Kōji Fukada in Dublin

On Thursday, 30th March, IJA members had a rare and unique opportunity to meet Japanese renowned writer and film director Kōji Fukada during his first visit to Ireland. He was one of the special guests at the East Asia Film Festival Ireland, attending his film screening and masterclass in Dublin.

Our members and invited guests met with director Fukada at a small and intimate meet & greet event in Dublin city centre, listening to stories and passion behind his films, and participating in conversations with director Fukada and Japanese Ambassador to Ireland – Norio Maruyama.

 

We would like to thank Keiko Nakata, Embassy of Japan, Azumi Uchitani, ElectroRoute and Tsugumi Yamamoto, IJA, for their support to make this event so special and memorable for everyone.

Event was organised by the Embassy of Japan in Ireland in cooperation with the Ireland Japan Association and ElectroRoute.

Photos: Embassy of Japan in Ireland

Tag Archive for: Dublin

IJA Bounenkai End of the Year Party 2024

**Stay tuned! Details coming soon!**

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We are looking forward to our annual Bounenkai End of the Year Party in Dublin. Details about the event will be announced soon and we hope you will join us for cheerful celebrations, delicious food and an amazing evening together in a Dublin city centre venue!
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Bounenkai is a Japanese tradition of celebrating the end of the year together with coworkers, friends and family. It is an evening spent together enjoying one another’s company, good food and drinks, and having fun.
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