Glory and Tradition- Hungarian Achievements in Japan

As a prelude to the Osaka World Expo, the Liszt Institute Tokyo organized the exhibition Glory and Tradition – Hungarian Expo Success (1851–2025), showcasing Hungary’s achievements at World Expos and the Hungarian Pavilion. Alongside the highly successful exhibition, the institute also hosted a sold-out concert featuring Ueda Mizuki, a cellist who studied in Hungary. Wine enthusiasts were also treated to a fully booked Hungarian wine tasting, held in the institute’s welcoming space in celebration of International Furmint Day.

The Liszt Institute Tokyo's exhibition Glory and Tradition - Hungarian Expo Success (1851-2025) showcases Hungary's pavilion for the 2025 Osaka World Expo, as well as the country's prior World Expo triumphs. The exhibition provides insight into the history of Hungary’s most renowned pavilions and award-winning creations, from the first World Expo in London to the most recent one in Dubai in 2021. Visitors can also gain knowledge about the architectural concept, interior design, and primary features of the Hungarian Pavilion in Osaka. Meanwhile, the Event Jinny picture gadget, a Hungarian creation, enhances Japan's popular selfie experience. This antique telephone-shaped special event technology allows attendees to capture images and films with custom backdrops, which can then be accessed and downloaded from an online gallery via a QR code. One of the highlights of the exhibition is two tables set with special Herend Porcelain, symbolizing the relationship between Hungary and Japan. The show, which has attracted a considerable number of visitors, will be displayed at the Liszt Institute Tokyo until February 28. As part of the exhibition, on February 13, master painter László Tartó from Herend led a painting workshop and demonstration for those interested in Herend porcelain. The event was organized in partnership with Hoshi Shoji, the exclusive distributor of Herend porcelain in Japan. The master artist painted iconic Herend porcelain patterns, offering visitors the opportunity to observe the intricate process up close. Due to high demand, the workshop was held three times, allowing nearly one hundred people to gain insight into the secrets of Herend porcelain painting.

On January 16, cellist Ueda Mizuki gave a sold-out, highly successful concert at the institute, accompanied by pianist Maki Hanako. The evening featured works by Hungarian composers as well as pieces by Frédéric Chopin, David Popper, Josef Suk, and Max Bruch. The performance was enriched by personal stories shared by the musicians, creating an intimate atmosphere for the audience. Ueda Mizuki graduated with honors from the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music in Hungary. She continued her chamber music studies at the Vienna State University of Music and later became a member of the Hungarian State Opera Orchestra and the Győr Philharmonic Orchestra. Today, she resides in Dresden.

On January 22, the institution collaborated with the Hungarian Wine and Pálinka Association to hold a Hungarian wine tasting event in honor of International Furmint Day. Krisztina Merényi, the institute's director, launched the session with a quick introduction to Hungary. Following this, guests learned about the key aspects of furmint wine and had the opportunity to taste three different furmint varieties. The exceptionally lively evening attracted nearly fifty visitors.