Riyadh, 12th November 2024 – The Saudi Culinary Arts Commission, one of 11 sector-specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture, has successfully concluded the Taste of Saudi Culture festival in Tokyo. With 23 food kiosks, the event showcased a glimpse of Saudi’s vast culinary heritage and reflected the Kingdom’s vibrant culture.
Held in Ariake Garden, the culinary pop-up festival acted as a cultural bridge between Saudi Arabia and Japan, offering a taste of the Kingdom’s culinary culture in the streets of Tokyo. From popular street food to traditional dishes including kbeibat hail, balilah with condiments and haneeth served with rice and honey, the Taste of Saudi Culture paved the way for guests to discover new flavors and culinary craftsmanship.
The CEO of the Culinary Arts Commission, Mayada Badr, said:
“The Taste of Saudi Culture highlighted the Kingdom’s culinary heritage, allowing visitors to experience our nation’s vibrant flavors and cultural traditions. We hope Tokyoites and visitors enjoyed discovering Saudi culinary artistry which celebrates both our heritage and innovations.”
During the event, Tokyoites observed firsthand pastry chefs make delicate kleija, filling them with dates grown in the Kingdom. Guests also discovered traditional Saudi coffee, served in the Kingdom as a symbol of hospitality, while a small bazaar provided the opportunity to take home Saudi products including spice mixes, various kinds of dates, honey from the Aseer region, kleija biscuits and rosewater made from Taif roses.
Visitors admired Saudi artisans palm weaving, a craft which uses the leaves of the date palm tree to create items such as baskets, and craftsmen intricately assembling colorful flower crowns from the Aseer region.
The Taste of Saudi Culture in Tokyo transformed Ariake Garden into a bustling festival, highlighting the spirit of cultural exchange and displaying some of the nation’s culinary traditions. The three-day event provided a cultural bridge between Saudi Arabia and Japan through the universal language of food and provides a glimpse of what’s to come at the Saudi Pavilion during Expo 2025.
