23rd Bulgaria Fair: Savor the Richness of Bulgaria

In Japan, Bulgaria is perhaps best known for its yogurt, but that is far from the only charm the country has to offer. It is often said that a nation with excellent wine also boasts excellent cuisine—and Bulgaria is a perfect example. Its diverse culinary tradition, influenced in part by Turkey, is both delicious and well-suited to the Japanese palate. Beyond its food, Bulgaria’s magnificent natural landscapes and rich culture have long been cherished by many in Japan; likewise, there are many people in Bulgaria who hold a deep affection for Japan.

To foster a deeper understanding of Bulgarian culture, the Japan-Bulgaria Society—with the support of the Josai University Educational Corporation and the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Japan—hosts an annual “Bulgaria Fair.”

Traditional Bulgarian folk dolls in embroidered costumes displayed at the 23rd Bulgaria Fair exhibition

This year’s fair featured a compelling program. During a session titled “How Do You Say It in Japanese? And in Bulgarian?”, Hristian Thomas Kirk—winner of the 32nd Japanese Speech Contest in Bulgaria—took the stage. Participants were visibly impressed by the fluent Japanese of Hristian, who is only 18 years old and still in high school. His fresh, youthful perspective on his own culture offered a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of young Bulgarians.

Hristian Thomas Kirk speaking in Japanese at the “How Do You Say It in Japanese? And in Bulgarian?” session at the 23rd Bulgaria Fair

The fair also featured a concert titled “Weaving Thoughts of Bulgaria Through the Piano,” which showcased a Steinway piano that had long been kept at Josai University. Pianist Hiroyuki Oda, a part-time lecturer at Toho Gakuen School of Music, performed works inspired by Bulgaria—including pieces by Scarlatti and Grieg—while the final selection was a piano duo by the Bulgarian composer Pancho Vladigerov, performed by Mr. Oda and his wife, Naho Sogawa, who is also a pianist and an associate professor at Tsuru University. Pancho Vladigerov is well-known for establishing a national school of musical composition and for having been the teacher of the renowned pianist Alexis Weissenberg. The piano duo performance was a masterful rendition of a piece that truly captured the essence of Bulgarian culture.

Pianist Hiroyuki Oda performing on a Steinway grand piano at the “Weaving Thoughts of Bulgaria Through the Piano” concert

Hiroyuki Oda and Naho Sogawa performing a piano duo by Pancho Vladigerov at the 23rd Bulgaria Fair

At the reception, guests were served authentic Bulgarian cuisine—rarely found in Japan—such as Shopska salad prepared with yogurt. Following the meal, traditional Bulgarian dances were performed. H.E. Madam Marieta Arabadzhieva, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Japan, who was in attendance, joined the circle of dancers and displayed some impressive footwork.

H.E. Madam Marieta Arabadzhieva, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Japan, speaking at the 23rd Bulgaria Fair

Looking ahead, the world-renowned Bulgarian pianist Maestra Jenny Zaharieva will visit Japan this November to hold workshops and concerts. Additionally, the 4th Bulgarian Language Speech Contest is scheduled for December 5th. There will be many more opportunities to explore the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes of Bulgaria.

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