On 14th April, the Embassy of Malta in Tokyo inaugurated an exclusive screening of the documentary ‘Forging Bonds: The Restoration of Samurai Armour’, offering a rare glimpse into the meticulous art and history behind these iconic artifacts.  This special event took place at the Hibiya Library in Tokyo.

‘Forging Bonds: The Restoration of Samurai Armour’ took viewers on a journey through workshops where master craftsmen painstakingly revived damaged and worn armour, bringing it back to its original glory. Through interviews and detailed footage, the documentary illustrated the techniques passed down through generations, emphasizing the blend of artistry and historical understanding crucial to each restoration project. The dedication and skill required to restore these historical treasures also highlighted the cultural significance and enduring legacy of the samurai.

In his speech, H. E Ambassador Spiteri underlined that the documentary was not merely a work of art but a testament to the relationship between Malta and Japan, one based on trust, long standing friendship, and respect. The documentary also allowed viewers to gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in creating samurai armour and the vital role played by Heritage Malta and Japanese restorers in safeguarding cultural heritage. Over one hundred distinguished people attended the screening, including high level officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, members of the diplomatic corps, the media, history enthusiasts, art aficionados as well as the Maltese community living in Japan.