Pakistan Japan Culture Association - Sindh

28/07/2026

PJCA Celebrates Japanese Cultural Heritage through Waka, Music, Dance and Ikebana

Karachi: Under the patronage of the Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi, the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh, in collaboration with the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, organised a unique cultural programme on Monday, 16 December 2024, celebrating the rich artistic heritage of Japan through a fusion of traditional Waka poetry, Pakistani classical music, classical dance, and the Japanese floral art of Ikebana.

The event was graced by Mr. HATTORI Masaru, Consul General of Japan in Karachi, as the Chief Guest. The programme highlighted the enduring cultural ties between Japan and Pakistan by presenting Japanese literary traditions in harmony with Pakistan’s classical performing arts.

A number of distinguished artists contributed to the success of the evening. Mr. Shahzad Niaz was recognised for his elegant Urdu translations of Waka poetry, while Ustad Mehboob Ali Khan was appreciated for composing and performing music that beautifully complemented the translated verses. Renowned vocalists Katherine Shad and Moeed Farooqi delivered captivating performances, and Pakistan’s celebrated classical dancer Ms. Sheema Kermani enthralled the audience with a graceful dance presentation inspired by the poetic compositions. The programme also featured a live Ikebana demonstration by Professor Asifa Ataka, whose artistic floral arrangements added a distinctive visual dimension to the cultural experience.

The event received an enthusiastic response from a large audience, who praised the innovative integration of Japanese poetry with Pakistani music, dance, and visual arts. The programme showcased the power of cultural exchange in fostering mutual appreciation and strengthening the longstanding friendship between the people of Japan and Pakistan.

In his remarks, Consul General HATTORI Masaru commended the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh for its continued efforts to promote Japanese culture in Pakistan. He appreciated the creative presentation of Waka poetry through local artistic traditions, noting that such initiatives play an important role in bringing the people of the two countries closer together.

Ms. Sadia Rashid, President of PJCA Sindh, expressed her gratitude to the Consul General for his continued encouragement and support of PJCA’s educational, literary, and cultural initiatives. She also thanked Mr. Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, for his valuable cooperation and partnership in hosting the programme, which contributed to another successful celebration of Japan-Pakistan cultural friendship.

28/07/2026

37th Annual Urdu Haiku Mushaira Celebrates the Literary Bond Between Pakistan and Japan

Karachi, 19 February 2025:The Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh, in collaboration with the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi and under the patronage of the Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi, successfully organised the 37th Annual Urdu Haiku Mushaira at the Husain Ahmed Hall, Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi.

The prestigious literary gathering brought together renowned poets, literary personalities, diplomats, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the shared appreciation of poetry and the enduring cultural friendship between Pakistan and Japan. The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran by Mr Saleem Ahmed.

President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, Mr Muhammad Ahmad Shah, attended the ceremony and expressed his appreciation for PJCA Sindh’s continued efforts in promoting cultural and literary exchanges between the two countries. While he was invited to preside over the Mushaira, he respectfully handed over the chairmanship to senior poet Mr Jamal Naqvi, emphasising that, according to the tradition of literary gatherings, the honour of presiding over a Mushaira should be given to a poet.

The Honourable Consul-General of Japan in Karachi, Mr Masaru Hattori, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

President of PJCA Sindh, Ms Sadia Rashid, welcomed the distinguished guests and highlighted the importance of the Urdu Haiku Mushaira as a unique platform that connects the literary traditions of Pakistan and Japan. She stated that such cultural initiatives play a significant role in strengthening people-to-people relations and mutual understanding between the two nations.

Addressing the gathering, Consul-General of Japan Mr Masaru Hattori expressed his pleasure at participating in the Mushaira once again. He appreciated the beautiful fusion of Japanese and Pakistani literary traditions and acknowledged the efforts of PJCA Sindh in promoting Haiku poetry in Pakistan. He also highlighted the contribution of the Japanese Consulate in encouraging the appreciation of Haiku in Pakistan since the 1980s.

Mr Hattori particularly appreciated the efforts of Mr Azmat Ataka and other PJCA members for their dedication towards cultural promotion. He also acknowledged the continued cooperation of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi in organising various Japanese cultural programmes, including Japan Festival and Japanese Film Festival.

A significant highlight of the evening was the presentation of selected Haiku by renowned Japanese poetess Nakamura Teijo, translated into poetic Urdu by celebrated poet Mr Shehzad Niaz. He introduced the Japanese poetess and presented his creative Urdu renditions, which received great appreciation from the audience.

The formal Mushaira featured participation by a distinguished group of poets, including Dr Jamal Naqvi, Yasir Chughtai, Akhtar Saeedi, Syed Meraj Jami, Syed Anwar Javed Hashmi, Wazahat Naseem, Shadab Ehsani, Naseem Nazish, Zeb-un-Nisa Zaibi, Shahida Asrar, Shehzad Niaz, Rubina Tahseen Beena, Shair Ali Shair, Nadeem Naqvi, Afroz Rizvi, Tahir Azeem, Hamida Kashish, Sehar Ali, Shazia Alam Shazi, Dr Abida Ghanghro, Naheed Azmi, Sadaf Bint-e-Izhar, Kazu Nori Matsuda, Sarwar Shamail, Syed Muhammad Shahid, Shahid Fahad, and Shaukat Kamal Cheema.

One of the unique features of the Mushaira was the presentation of Haiku in Saraiki and Sindhi languages by Mr Shehzad Niaz and Dr Abida Ghanghro. The multilingual presentation added diversity and cultural richness to the literary evening and was warmly received by the audience.

Concluding the event, Mr Muhammad Ahmad Shah highlighted the history of intellectual, literary, and cultural collaboration between Pakistan and Japan. He appreciated the strong partnership between PJCA Sindh, the Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi, and the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, while assuring continued support for future cultural initiatives.

Senior poetess Ms Wazahat Naseem skillfully performed the duties of the host and conducted the proceedings with grace and professionalism.

The audience appreciated PJCA Sindh, the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, and the Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi for organising a memorable evening that celebrated the beauty of poetry and further strengthened the cultural friendship between Pakistan and Japan.

Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) SindhKarachi20 February 2025

27/07/2026

A Beautiful Celebration of Pakistan-Japan Cultural Friendship
Soprano Recital by Junko Matsuoka — An Evening of Japanese Music and Poetry

Karachi, 22 November 2025: Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Japan in Karachi, organised a captivating “Soprano Recital (Performance of Nostalgic Japanese Songs)” featuring renowned Japanese soprano singer Junko Matsuoka.

The cultural evening was held at the Japan Information and Culture Centre, Consulate General of Japan, Karachi, with the aim of promoting cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Japan.

The programme commenced with the national anthems of Japan and Pakistan, followed by a mesmerising performance by Ms. Junko Matsuoka, who presented a selection of nostalgic Japanese songs, including “Sōshunfu (Early Spring), Oborozukiyo (A Hazy Moonlit Night), Hamabe no Uta (Song of the Seashore), Kōjō no Tsuki (Moon Over the Ruined Castle), Sakura Sakura (Cherry Blossoms), Hatsukoi (First Love), and Furusato (My Home Town)” among others.

In his message, Hattori Masaru, Consul General of Japan in Karachi, expressed his pleasure in hosting the recital and highlighted that music serves as a universal language that connects hearts and transcends borders. He appreciated Ms. Matsuoka’s efforts in bridging Japanese traditional music with Western classical expressions.

Ms. Sadia Rashid, President of Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh, welcomed the audience and stated that art and music play a vital role in strengthening cultural ties and promoting friendship between nations. She appreciated the continued support and cooperation of the Consulate General of Japan in Karachi for cultural initiatives.

A graduate of the Osaka College of Music, Junko Matsuoka is an accomplished soprano singer known for her remarkable interpretations of Japanese traditional songs, art songs, and classical music. Her graceful performance offered the audience a glimpse into the beauty, emotions, and rich cultural heritage of Japan.

The event was attended by distinguished guests from diplomatic, cultural, educational, and social circles, who highly appreciated the enchanting musical evening.

Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh continues its efforts to strengthen people-to-people connections and promote cultural harmony between Pakistan and Japan through meaningful artistic and cultural programmes.

27/07/2026

CELEBRATING THE 66TH BIRTHDAY OF HIS MAJESTY EMPEROR NARUHITO OF JAPAN

Karachi, Tuesday, 3 February 2026 – The 66th Birthday Reception of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan was held at the Marriott Hotel, Karachi, jointly organized by the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA-Sindh) and the Consulate General of Japan in Karachi. The event commemorated the National Day of Japan and celebrated the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Japan and Pakistan.

The reception was hosted by the Consul General of Japan in Karachi, Mr. HATTORI Masaru, and attended by eminent personalities from the diplomatic corps, government, business, academia, and cultural sectors. The Chief Guests were His Excellency Mr. Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori, Governor of Sindh, and Mr. Saeed Ghani, Provincial Minister for Local Government, Government of Sindh, together with diplomats, senior government officials, members of the Pakistan–Japan community, and other distinguished guests.

Among the prominent attendees was Ms. Sadia Rashid, President of the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA-Sindh), whose continued leadership has played a significant role in strengthening cultural, educational, and people-to-people relations between Pakistan and Japan. Through the Association's initiatives, PJCA-Sindh continues to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries.

In his welcome address, Consul General HATTORI Masaru expressed his pleasure in hosting the National Day Reception and reflected on the longstanding cordial relations between Japan and Pakistan. He highlighted recent initiatives aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation and reaffirmed Japan's commitment to working closely with both the federal and provincial governments to promote sustainable development and shared prosperity. He also emphasized Japan's valuable contributions to Pakistan's socio-economic development, particularly in the fields of disaster risk reduction, healthcare, and education.

In his remarks, Governor Sindh, H.E. Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of Japan on the occasion of the Emperor's Birthday. He acknowledged Japan's longstanding support for Pakistan, including opportunities for Pakistani students and professionals, and emphasized the importance of further expanding cooperation between Sindh and Japan in the areas of trade, investment, education, technology, and cultural exchange.

The celebration also featured elegant displays of Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement, and Bonsai, showcasing the richness of Japan's cultural heritage. These cultural exhibits were greatly appreciated by the guests and added a distinctive Japanese touch to the evening.

The event concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting, followed by a dinner featuring an exquisite selection of Japanese and Pakistani cuisine. The reception reflected the enduring friendship, mutual respect, and growing partnership between Japan and Pakistan, while reaffirming the shared commitment of PJCA-Sindh and the Consulate General of Japan in Karachi to further strengthening bilateral relations through cultural and people-to-people engagement.

06/07/2026

Inquiry no. The Japanese Language Course is 03331300457 WhatsApp Only.

24/06/2026

THIRTY-EIGHTH ANNUAL URDU HAIKU MUSHAIRA ORGANIZED BY THE PAKISTAN JAPAN CULTURAL ASSOCIATION (PJCA-SINDH)
The 38th Annual Urdu Haiku Mushaira, organized by the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA-Sindh) under the auspices of the Consulate General of Japan in Karachi and in collaboration with the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, was held on Saturday, 31 January 2026, at the Haseena Moin Hall, Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi.
The literary gathering was coordinated by Ms. Wazahat Naseem and presided over by renowned poet Mr. Firasat Rizvi, while the Honourable Consul General of Japan in Karachi graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Among the distinguished guests was Ms. Sadia Rashid, President, Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA-Sindh), whose continued leadership has played a significant role in promoting literary and cultural exchange between Pakistan and Japan.
The proceedings commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Mr. Saleem Ahmed, General Secretary, PJCA-Sindh. This was followed by a welcome address by Mr. Azmat Ataka, First Vice President, PJCA-Sindh. In his remarks, Mr. Ataka expressed his sincere appreciation to the Honourable Consul General of Japan for his continued patronage and unwavering support for cultural and literary initiatives. He also conveyed his gratitude to Mr. Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, for his consistent cooperation and generous support in facilitating PJCA-Sindh's literary and cultural programmes. Mr. Ataka further thanked Mr. Firasat Rizvi for presiding over the Mushaira and acknowledged his valuable contribution to the occasion.
Mr. Ataka also expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Sadia Rashid, President, PJCA-Sindh, for generously sponsoring gift hampers for all participating poets through the Hamdard Group. Her continued encouragement and support, together with Hamdard Group's contribution, were greatly appreciated and played an important role in the successful organisation of the event.
The Mushaira featured the participation of twenty-one distinguished poets, in addition to the presiding poet, Mr. Firasat Rizvi. The participating poets, listed in alphabetical order, were: Dr. Abda Ghanghro, Afzal Hazarvi, Hameeda Kashish, Dr. Jamal Naqvi, Kazunori Matsuda, Khalida Uzma, Naseem Nazish, Rubina Tahseen Bina, Dr. Saeed Ahmed Saadi, Sarwar Shamal, Seher Ali, Shah Fahad, Shahabuddin Shahab, Shahida Israr, Shahzad Niaz, Shair Ali Shair, Sohail Ahmed Siddiqui, Syed Meraj Jami, Wazahat Naseem, Yasmeen Yas, and Zahid Hussain Zahid Jauhri. Each poet presented original Urdu haiku, reflecting the elegance, brevity, and artistic spirit of this distinctive Japanese poetic form.
The event concluded with the presidential address by Mr. Firasat Rizvi, who also presented a recital of his own haiku. The Mushaira was attended by a large gathering of poets, literary scholars, writers, and admirers of Urdu literature. The programme was widely appreciated for its excellent organisation, high literary standards, and its valuable contribution to strengthening the cultural and literary ties between Pakistan and Japan through the continued efforts of PJCA-Sindh

18/06/2026

Karachi - The Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi proudly announces that Mr. Muhammad Azmat Shigeyuki Ataka, the First Vice President of the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Sindh, has been awarded the Foreign Minister’s Commendation for his exceptional contributions to promoting Japan-Pakistan relations.

During the awarding ceremony, Consul General HATTORI Masaru congratulated Mr. Muhammad Azmat Shigeyuki Ataka, on receiving the Foreign Minister’s Commendation Award. Recognized for his lifelong dedication to promoting Japanese culture in Pakistan, Mr. Ataka has played a pivotal role in popularizing Japanese Haiku and Waka by creatively integrating them with local traditions such as Mushaira and Raag. His efforts have established these poetic forms as distinct literary genres in Pakistan, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the friendship between Japan and Pakistan. The award underscores the honoree’s vital role in fostering mutual understanding and enhancing cooperation between the two nations.

The Foreign Minister’s Commendation is presented to individuals who have made notable contributions to strengthening Japan’s international relations. This year’s honoree joins a distinguished group whose efforts continue to shape a brighter future for Japan-Pakistan relations.

The Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi remains committed to promoting diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between Japan and Pakistan through a wide range of initiatives in education,

12/06/2026

The 40th Japanese Language Speech Contest, hosted by the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association, Sindh (PJCA), took place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Students from PJCA’s Japanese language courses impressed the audience and judges with their eloquent and heartfelt speeches.
Consul General HATTORI lauded the contestants’ dedication and commended PJCA and the language instructors for their unwavering support. 🙌
President of PJCA Sindh, Madam Sadia Rashid highlighted the power of language to transcend borders and foster understanding.
The event concluded with a ceremony honoring all participants and celebrating the winners with certificates and awards

12/06/2026

Consul-General of Japan in Karachi, HATTORI Masaru, joined the Taste of Japan culinary discovery session by Biz Today as Chief Guest, celebrating the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine and the shared love for spices that connect Japan and Pakistan. The event was also graced by Japanese spice expert NAITO Naoki from Osaka, Japan who shared his insights from the fascinating world of Japanese cuisine

12/06/2026