Hello everyone,
I am Chisato Tateno, 2025 Miss SAKE Japan.
On Thursday, February 19, I had the honor of attending the 1st Anniversary Commemorative Party of the Asia Future Cultural Exchange Association, held at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo (Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo). The event also included a special report on the conferment of the “Nairamdal (Friendship) Medal” by the President of Mongolia.
About the Asia Future Cultural Exchange Association
The Asia Future Cultural Exchange Association (Chairman: Mr. Akira Otani) is dedicated to fostering sustainable development and shaping a shared future for Asia and Japan. The organization promotes exchange among people from diverse cultural backgrounds and works toward building a harmonious society where different values and abilities can thrive together.
Its activities span a wide range of fields, including the planning and management of international cultural exchange events and seminars, support for business partnerships with Asian countries, overseas study tours and market-entry assistance, and collaborative projects with educational institutions.
The Association also provides educational and employment support for global talent working in Japan, facilitates matching between foreign job seekers and companies, and shares information related to foreign employment systems. In addition, through donations and support initiatives for underprivileged children in Asia, it contributes to addressing social challenges. Grounded in extensive knowledge, experience, and a strong commitment to mutual understanding, the Association strives to nurture cross-border human connections and build lasting relationships in which Asia and Japan can grow together.
A New Step Forward in Japan–Mongolia Friendship
The event opened with remarks from H.E. Mr. Banzragch Bayarsaikhan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia to Japan. Referring to this year as the “Year of the Horse,” symbolizing Mongolia’s vast steppes, he expressed hopes for further dynamic progress in bilateral relations. He also spoke about Mongolia’s vision of developing as a tourism-oriented nation connecting Japan and Mongolia, particularly in light of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan’s first official visit to Mongolia last year and the opening of the new Ulaanbaatar International Airport. In this context, he emphasized the importance of cultivating human resources in the service and hospitality industries.
Mr. Akira Otani, Chairman of the Asia Future Cultural Exchange Association, then spoke about the importance for Japan—an island nation—to deepen mutual understanding with neighboring Asian countries through cultural exchange. The Association has long served as a bridge between Japan and many Asian nations, including Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, India, and Indonesia, by continuously organizing cultural exchange events.
In recognition of his longstanding contributions to international exchange and human resource development, Chairman Otani was awarded the “Nairamdal (Friendship) Medal” by the President of Mongolia. This distinguished medal is one of Mongolia’s most prestigious honors, conferred upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of friendly relations and cultural exchange. During the event, the conferment was formally reported, and a future vision was shared: to promote Japanese culture—including traditional attire, sake, and Japanese cuisine—and to contribute to world peace through the power of culture.
Deepening mutual understanding of different cultures, values, and customs fosters trust between Japan and Mongolia and lays the foundation for even stronger ties of friendship. The gathering marked a meaningful beginning, reaffirming that this shared commitment between the two countries represents an important first step toward leading the way to world peace.
Cultural Exchange as a Bridge Between Hearts
Many young Mongolians dressed in traditional attire attended the event. When I had the opportunity to speak with those working in the hotel and service industries, I was amazed by their fluent Japanese, despite having been in Japan for only two or three years. Hearing them speak so positively about their fulfilling lives in Japan brought me great joy.
They also shared with me insights into Mongolian daily culture, including traditional clothing, beverages, and cuisine. Guests were treated to airag, a traditional low-alcohol drink made from fermented mare’s milk, and buuz, Mongolian-style steamed dumplings. It was a rare and valuable opportunity to experience Mongolian culture so deeply while in Japan.
Through these cultural experiences, natural conversations emerged about both the differences and similarities between our cultures. Understanding one’s own culture, sharing it with pride, and at the same time respecting and experiencing another’s culture firsthand—such grassroots, person-to-person exchanges are what truly build bridges between nations. I felt this very strongly throughout the evening.
The party also featured traditional Mongolian performances, including khoomei (throat singing, a technique that produces two tones simultaneously) accompanied by the morin khuur, Mongolian folk songs, and traditional Mongolian dance. Toward the end of the evening, all attendees joined hands, forming a circle and dancing together to Mongolian music. In that moment, a powerful sense of unity was born—one that transcended language and cultural differences—and I once again felt the profound value of mutual understanding rooted in heartfelt connection.
Through this event, I witnessed many moments in which the power of culture transcended borders and brought people closer together. It was a valuable reminder of the importance of Japan and Mongolia deepening their trust while respecting each other’s traditions and values, and of building a sustainable friendship that will continue into the next generation. I was also reminded that even when nationalities and languages differ, trust and empathy can surely be nurtured when there is a sincere desire to understand one another.
As Miss SAKE, I will continue to share the beauty of Japanese culture—especially sake—with audiences both in Japan and around the world, striving to serve as a bridge for international exchange through culture. Cherishing every encounter, I hope to contribute, even in a small way, to connecting Japan, Asia, and the wider world.
Chisato Tateno
2025 Miss SAKE Japan
