“Cultural DestiNAtions”

Athens International Airport offers visitors a small taste of Japan’s mysterious allure, bringing a bit of light from the Land of the Rising Sun, on Friday 15th November 2024.  

A flute melody highlights the Japanese Zen aesthetic, while a dynamic Taiko drumming performance sets the rhythm for a primal celebration. Dancers from the “Fotis Metaxopoulos” Dance School in traditional attire, draw inspiration from the Japanese tradition of Hanami (flower viewing), blending it into a choreography that incorporates hip-hop elements. Accompanied by electric piano, a soprano portraying Madama Butterfly performs nostalgic arias from the renowned opera. A Zen Garden installation and an exhibition of Japanese Ikebana flower arrangements create a scene of harmony, as the giant LED WALL displays haiku poetry and videos from Japan, enriched with impressions from well-known influencers. At the photobooth, visitors and travelers can have their picture taken dressed in kimonos or transformed into ninjas. Others play a quiz on Japan’s unique customs or through VR, take a virtual stroll through the streets of Tokyo, departing with a handmade origami souvenir from a live demonstration. Subtle tastes of authentic Japanese cuisine uniquely enhance the immersive experience.  

The Cultural DestiNAtions programme, a cultural initiative by Athens International Airport in collaboration with the social cooperative enterprise “PHELLOE”, continues to inspire! 

 Destination: “Japan”! Departures upper Level, Entrance 3, All Users Area Duration of the programme: 12:00 – 13:00 hrs