An exhibition to promote Japanese culture in France is set to wrap up this month after attracting a total of 3 million visitors.

Japonismes 2018 opened in July last year to commemorate 160 years of friendship between Japan and France.

More than 70 programs have been organized, including an exhibition of Ito Jakuchu, an 18th-century artist. The Eiffel Tower was also lit up in colors reflecting Japanese culture.

On Wednesday, a reception was held at the official residence of the Japanese ambassador in Paris to celebrate the success of the event and mark its closing.

Hiroyasu Ando, president of the Japan Foundation, said he hopes the networks formed through the event between Japan and France will be strengthened and friendship will develop further.

French foreign secretary-general Maurice Gourdault-Montagne said he hopes the spirit shared between the two countries will last for many years to come.

An exhibition of the painter Tsuguharu Fujita is currently on display in the French capital. He lived in the city from the early 20th century and earned his reputation in France.

One woman said she enjoyed the works of both Fujita and Jakuchu. She said she was able to be immersed in Japanese culture thanks to the Japonismes exposition.

NHK