Sapporo Soprano Singer Ittetsu: Over a Decade of Weaving Musical Bonds with Taiwan

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, which was officially established in 1868 during the Meiji period as a planned modern city. It is now internationally famous for hosting the 1972 Winter Olympics, its annual Snow Festival featuring massive ice sculptures, and as the birthplace of Sapporo Beer, with its brewery opening in 1876.

Taiwan is an island territory in East Asia with a complex history of indigenous cultures, Chinese settlement, and periods of Dutch, Spanish, and Japanese rule. It is known for its vibrant democracy, technological industry, and stunning natural landscapes ranging from tropical beaches to mountainous forests. The island’s capital, Taipei, is home to cultural landmarks such as the National Palace Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts.

The Japan-Taiwan Friendship Choral Concert is not a physical place but a recurring cultural event that promotes goodwill and cultural exchange through music. It was established to strengthen the unofficial but close ties between Japan and Taiwan, reflecting their shared history and deep mutual affection that has persisted since the post-war period. These concerts feature performances by choirs from both nations, serving as a harmonious bridge for diplomacy and people-to-people connection.

The Sapporo Concert Hall Kitara is a premier concert venue in Sapporo, Japan, which opened in 1997. It was built to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Hokkaido Development Agency and is renowned for its world-class acoustics. The hall serves as the home of the Sapporo Symphony Orchestra and is a major cultural hub for classical music in northern Japan.

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost and second-largest island, historically inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people before significant Japanese settlement began during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century. Today, it is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including national parks, hot springs, and world-class ski resorts, as well as its distinct seasonal climate and agricultural production.