More than 100 Thai and Japanese musicians are taking part in a festival to promote mutual friendship between their two countries. The event was held to commemorate the 135th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangkok and Tokyo.

The three-day festival kicked off Friday in a popular tourist shopping mall in the capital. It is one of many commemorative events the two countries have been holding this year, including business and cultural exchanges.

The event's organizer Yupharet Eakturapakal said, "I think tourism, food, music, entertainment and all of the soft power are very important for the both countries. I'd like to continue using our event to be the middle for both countries to meet together."

The organizers hope events such as this will help boost the tourism industry in both countries which have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.