Representatives of 16 ethnic groups living in the village warmly welcomed the two First Ladies with traditional gong performances and ethnic dances.

The ladies toured the Thai ethnic village, learning about traditional stilt houses, the customs of tossing the "con" ball, and the craft of making these colorful symbolic balls.

Under the guidance of local artisans, Madame Le Thi Bich Tran and Madame Ishiba Yoshiko experienced making "con" balls themselves. They then held hands with the Thai ethnic people to perform the traditional Xoe dance, symbolizing unity and joy.

The visit continued at the Xo Dang ethnic village, where the First Ladies listened to the melodious sounds of traditional musical instruments, including the t'rung and k'long put. Both Madame Tran and Madame Ishiba tried their hand at crafting a t’rung under the guidance of local artisans.

At the Cham tower complex, the ladies learned about the unique architecture and religious culture of the Cham people. They ascended the main Ka Lan tower to offer incense in a traditional ritual.

Expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality, Madame Ishiba Yoshiko voiced her hope that the cultural and people-to-people exchanges between Vietnam and Japan will continue to strengthen the bilateral relationship.

Madame Le Thi Bich Tran, in turn, thanked Madame Ishiba Yoshiko for her affection toward Vietnam and expressed her hope for another meeting in the near future.

Tran Thuong - Pham Hai