Vietnam Trainees In Japan Celebrate Lunar New Year
Vietnamese technical intern trainees in Japan have celebrated the Lunar New Year at a Buddhist temple north of Tokyo.
More than 30 Vietnamese trainees, including some who have lost their jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic, are staying at the Daionji Temple in the city of Honjo in Saitama Prefecture. The temple's priest is a Vietnamese woman.
They celebrated the Lunar New Year, called "Tet" in Vietnam, on Friday.
The trainees greeted Vietnamese residents from the local community and handed out celebratory items. Visitors were also treated to a Vietnamese noodle dish called "bun."
Some of the trainees cannot return home even after their training period has ended because of Vietnam's strict entry controls amid the pandemic.
They were seen using their smartphones to make video-calls to family members back home.
Hua Tuan Khoa, who is 37 years old, came to Japan four years ago. He asked his parents if they are well, and told them not to worry as he is doing well. He said he missed them but was happy to be able to speak with them.
The temple's priest, Thich Tam Tri, said she prayed that those who are without jobs and waiting to return to Vietnam will be able to do so quickly. She said it is important for both Japanese and foreigners to help each other during such difficult times.