Interested in France? Head to Yokohama.
The Institut Francais Yokohama, the Yokohama branch of the French government-sponsored culture and language centers, is turning Yokohama into all things French through July 15 for its annual Month of France in Yokohama.
Started in 2005, the six-week-long festivities, which mark the role the port city has played in the promotion of international exchange for the last 150 years, include a wide range of cultural and art events in collaboration with the city's museums, theaters, restaurants and other businesses.
Events taking place this weekend include the contemporary dance program "M!M" at the Kanagawa Arts Theater (on Friday and Saturday) featuring the French choreographer Laurent Chétouane, which delves into the political aspects of friendship. There will also be a family-friendly workshop on how to use French-made toy wooden blocks, known as Kapla, at the shopping mall Tressa Yokohama.
Upcoming events range from workshops on French-style flower arrangement and embroidery, to chanson concerts by overseas and local artists and screenings of films made by female French directors.
Month of France in Yokohama will be held through July 15. For more information, visit www.institutfrancais.jp/yokohama (in Japanese and French).