This year, the city of Kobe is set to host a spectacular celebration of French culture and history. The Kobe Kitano Paris Week, scheduled from July 15th to July 20th, 2023, is an event that promises to transport you to the heart of Paris, right here in Japan.
The event is a revival of the Kobe Paris Festival, a beloved tradition that had concluded its 33-year run. Thanks to the passionate requests of chanson music fans, the festival was brought back to life in 2019 by Kobe-based chanson singer Kaoru Kaze. This year, the festival is set to transform Kitano-zaka into a mini Montmartre, with the melodies of chanson music filling the air.
During the Paris Week, visitors can enjoy live performances by musicians and singers in the restaurants, cafes, and Ijinkan around Kitano-zaka. Spaces will also be set up for attendees to sing chanson, immersing themselves in the spirit of the festival.
But the festivities don’t end there. On July 14th, the Kobe Franco-Japanese Association will be hosting the Fête Nationale Française 2023, also known as the Paris Festival. This event will celebrate the French National Day, commonly referred to as Le 14 Juillet. This year’s theme is the discovery of the history and culture of Perpignan, the hometown of Jules Irrmann, the Consul General of France in Kyoto and Honorary Advisor of the Kobe Franco-Japanese Association.
The Fête Nationale Française 2023 will take place on July 7th, from 19:00 to 21:00. The event will feature authentic Perpignan cuisine prepared according to recipes provided by the Consul General himself. Attendees will have the opportunity to savor these dishes while enjoying traditional music and beautiful scenery, truly experiencing Perpignan with all five senses.
The grand finale of the Paris Week on July 20th will be the “Chanson Festival – Kobe Paris Festival” held at the Kobe Culture Hall. Special guest Kenichi Mikawa will be welcomed, and attendees can enjoy the glamorous stage performances of singers, including those who are active in the Kansai region and former Takarazuka Revue performers.
In the hall foyer, there will be a sales corner for Parisian goods and items from sponsoring stores. So, come and experience the charm of Paris and Montmartre in the city of Kobe!
For more information about these exciting events, please visit the official websites. Details about the Kobe Kitano Paris Week can be found on the Kitano Ijinkan Net, and for more about the Fête Nationale Française 2023, please visit the Kobe Franco-Japanese Association’s website. These platforms provide comprehensive information about the events, including schedules, locations, and how to participate.
Don’t miss out on these unique opportunities to immerse yourself in French culture right here in Kobe, Japan!
