This week marked a momentous occasion as the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) made its historic first port call in South Africa since the force's establishment after World War II. The arrival of the JMSDF in Cape Town, part of this year's Overseas Training Cruise, featured two prominent vessels, JS KASHIMA and JS SHIMAKAZE – both of which were even opened to the public for a tour. Their arrival signifies not only a milestone in Japan-South Africa relations but also showcases the growing international collaboration and exchange between the two nations.
The Overseas Training Cruise
Onboard the JS KASHIMA and JS SHIMAKAZE are a total of 570 officers and crew members, including 200 newly commissioned officers who graduated from the Maritime Officer Candidate Training School earlier this year. Departing Japan on May 20, 2024, the squadron is set to return on November 11, 2024, after an intensive period of rigorous training through real-life experience at sea.
The primary objective of the Overseas Training Cruise is to develop the seamanship skills of the newly commissioned officers through various trainings, fostering their international perspectives. This mission not only aims to enhance the professional capabilities of the officers but also to promote friendly relationships with the cities they visit.
A Grand Welcome in Cape Town
The squadron's arrival in Cape Town on July 2 was met with great enthusiasm and ceremonial grandeur, including a 21-gun salute. His Excellency Ambassador USHIO Shigeru, of the Embassy of Japan in South Africa, and Rear Admiral NISHIYAMA Takahiro, Commander of the Japan Training Squadron, along with the Honourable Consul General Katamoto-san and the local consulate staff, extended a warm welcome to members of the South African maritime forces, local government figures, and esteemed guests to celebrate the momentous occasion. Nihongo no Niwa also had the pleasure of receiving an invitation to the reception, for which we were deeply honoured. The event took place on the stern of the flag ship, JS KASHIMA, on July 3.
ヒゲ先生 was even kindly asked to take part in the ceremonial opening of the sake barrels alongside Ambassador Ushio-san, Speaker for the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, Mr Daylin Mitchell, Commander of the Japan Training Squadron, Rear Admiral Nishiyama-san, Rear Admiral Musawenkosi "Kop" Nkomonde, and Vice President of the African Bonsai Association, Mr Willem Pretorius. The evening was filled with many fascinating insights and exchanges, not to mention a skilled Jūdō demonstration by two JMSDF officers and some of the best yakitori and mochi delights we have ever sampled! The kindness of the officers was also evident as we chatted with them about local sites and attractions for them to visit, as well as what they hoped to experience in cities to come. The officers were even kind enough to gift us each a commemorative medallion to mark the occasion (pictured in this article's cover image).
Rear Admiral Takahiro Nishiyama, together with the other esteemed speakers, emphasized the significance of such visits in fostering international friendships and mutual understanding. The Overseas Training Cruise serves as a bridge, connecting Japan with the world through shared cultural experiences.
Cultural Exchange and Celebrations
The following day, Thursday, July 4, was marked by one such vibrant cultural exchange event, held at the V&A Waterfront. The JMSDF officers worked together to display a music concert and a martial arts exhibition, and their efforts were met with great support.
The JMSDF's performance included the powerful beats of Taiko, traditional Japanese drums that created an electrifying atmosphere for their spellbound audience, not to mention other special musical ensembles, including a fun rendition of Shikira's Waka Waka. The grand finale saw the JMSDF join forces with members of the South African Navy Band for a musical collaboration to sing Siyahamba, a historic Zulu folk song.
The martial arts exhibition that followed was equally impressive, featuring demonstrations of Aikidō, Kyūdō, and Kendō. These traditional Japanese martial arts captivated the audience, highlighting the discipline and skill of the practitioners.
Nihongo no Niwa's Students Join the Celebration
Among the enthusiastic spectators were students from Nihongo no Niwa. Class Wakatakakage even made the most of the open day, deciding to visit the naval destroyers and watch the cultural displays as a formal class outing! This experience provided the students with a unique opportunity to witness Japanese culture and maritime tradition firsthand, enriching their learning journey.
As the JMSDF continues its journey, we can only hope that their visit to Cape Town will be remembered as a highlight of their cruise and that the warm reception and successful cultural exchange events have set a positive tone for future interactions between Japan and South Africa. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's historic visit to Cape Town not only showcases the strengths and discipline of its officers but also underscores the importance of international cooperation and cultural exchange in building a more connected and harmonious world. We wish them all fair winds and following seas as they continue on the next leg of their journey towards Dakar (Senegal) and beyond.
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