Official Swiss event kicks off at Roppongi Hills. From food to live music, it's packed with attractions

Feb 7, 2014

To commemorate the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Switzerland, the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan will hold the official event "Swiss Days" from February 6th to 9th at the Roppongi Hills Arena in Tokyo. The opening ceremony took place on the first day, during which visiting Swiss President Didier Burkhalter spoke of his country's appeal, saying, "Switzerland is not just a country with the mountains and lakes that appear in 'Heidi,' but also a country that combines high-tech technology and industry. I hope you enjoy this rare opportunity to see Switzerland in the heart of Tokyo." Five goodwill ambassadors also appeared, including entertainer Christine Haruka, whose mother is Swiss; former head chef of the Japanese Embassy in Switzerland, Kiyomi Mikuni; and Isamu Tatsuno, who successfully climbed the north face of the Eiger and is now president of the outdoor brand Mont-bell. After the ceremony, a live performance by Eliana Burki, a traditional alphorn player, and a demonstration of Swiss wrestling, "Schwingen," took place.

Throughout the event, the stage will host live performances by artists from various genres and a Schwingen show. In the evening, a giant screen will project 3D images of the Alps and other mountains, along with an LED light show. The food and beverage corner will offer coffee, wine, Lindz chocolate, and other local specialties.

In addition, Tokyo Tower will be illuminated until the 9th in celebration of Swiss Days. A special program featuring the Swiss flag will illuminate the Diamond Veil. Special stamps (800 yen per sheet), featuring designs shared between Japan and Switzerland, are also available in limited quantities at post offices nationwide.
くまがいなお
  • The President, Christine Haruka and others enjoying drinks at Swiss Days
  • Opening ceremony of the Embassy's official event "Swiss Days"
  • Opening ceremony of the Embassy's official event "Swiss Days"
  • Opening ceremony of the Embassy's official event "Swiss Days"
  • The President enjoying a food stall at Swiss Days
  • Alphorn live performance on the "Swiss Days" stage
  • Swiss Sumo demonstration on stage at Swiss Days
  • President Burkhalter delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of Swiss Days
  • Ambassador Urs Butel of Switzerland to Japan delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of Swiss Days
  • Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Takao Makino delivering remarks at the opening ceremony of "Swiss Days"
  • Urs Kessler, CEO of the Jungfrau Railway Group, giving a speech at the opening ceremony of Swiss Days
  • Logo commemorating the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Switzerland
  • Alphorn performance on the "Swiss Days" stage
  • Alphorn performance on the "Swiss Days" stage
  • Schwingen demonstration on the stage at Swiss Days
  • Schwingen demonstration on the stage at Swiss Days
  • The President, Christine Haruka and others enjoying drinks at Swiss Days
  • Opening ceremony of the Embassy's official event "Swiss Days"
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