Horseback Riding Event Blends Tradition, Adventure at Hira Cultural District

The event was held as part of the "Summer of Hira" activities. SPA
The event was held as part of the "Summer of Hira" activities. SPA
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Horseback Riding Event Blends Tradition, Adventure at Hira Cultural District

The event was held as part of the "Summer of Hira" activities. SPA
The event was held as part of the "Summer of Hira" activities. SPA

A thrilling horseback riding event has captivated visitors to the Hira Cultural District, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure.
The event, held as part of the "Summer of Hira" activities, has revived the spirit of traditional Arab horsemanship in a family-friendly atmosphere.
By showcasing the grace and power of Arabian horses, the event has highlighted the deep connection between humans and animals. The competition-style format has ignited a sense of challenge and camaraderie among riders of all ages.
The event also contributed to Makkah's tourism, showcasing the city's rich heritage, and positioning the Hira Cultural District as a vibrant destination for visitors.



Hayy Matsuri in Jeddah Celebrates Japanese Culture

A group of tourists look at chopsticks products at the Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo on January 10, 2025. (Photo by Philip FONG / AFP)
A group of tourists look at chopsticks products at the Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo on January 10, 2025. (Photo by Philip FONG / AFP)
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Hayy Matsuri in Jeddah Celebrates Japanese Culture

A group of tourists look at chopsticks products at the Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo on January 10, 2025. (Photo by Philip FONG / AFP)
A group of tourists look at chopsticks products at the Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo on January 10, 2025. (Photo by Philip FONG / AFP)

The second edition of the Japanese Hayy Matsuri cultural festival, held under the theme "Saudi Celebrates Japan," was inaugurated on Thursday in Hayy Jameel, Jeddah.
The festival, which runs until January 11, aims to enhance cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and Japan, emphasizing the vital role of art in fostering communication and promoting mutual understanding among cultures.
This year's festival provides a cohesive cultural experience that blends tradition with creativity. It features a diverse range of activities, including musical performances by both Saudi and Japanese artists, with highlights such as the Kingdom's premiere of "Electronicos Fantasticos!" and performances by Daisuke Tanabe.

Visitors can also participate in interactive workshops to explore the arts of origami, Japanese calligraphy, and Ikebana, the art of flower arrangement.
In addition to live performances, the festival includes screenings of Japanese manga and films, traditional tea ceremonies, and a variety of anime-related projects. Attendees can also enjoy cosplay competitions, a board games zone, printmaking activations, and traditional live demonstrations celebrating Japanese cultural and artistic practices.
A cultural market showcasing over 30 vendors offers products inspired by Japanese culture and authentic Japanese cuisine, allowing visitors to experience the rich flavors of historical Japanese culinary traditions.
The festival celebrates the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan, reflecting the profound cultural ties between the two nations. It fosters mutual understanding and creates connections through cultural and artistic exchange.