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TUMON, Guam– The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) welcomed cultural performance groups from Japan and Taiwan to the island for the 82nd Liberation Day celebrations, reinforcing decades-long cultural ties while showcasing the role of tourism in strengthening international friendships.
The visiting delegations participated in a series of performances and community events culminating in a special Liberation Day edition of the Tumon Night Market on July 21, where thousands of residents and visitors celebrated Guam’s heritage through music, dance, local cuisine, and cultural traditions.
Three groups headlined the international cultural exchange: Japanese yosakoi dance team AMATA, Japan-based CHamoru cultural dance group Guma’ Taotao Kinahulo’ Atdao na Tåno’, and the Taiwan Falun Dafa Waist Drum Team.
“Our visitors were honored to welcome AMATA, Guma’ Taotao Kinahulo’ Atdao na Tåno’, and the Falun Dafa Band back to our island during this year’s Liberation celebration,” said Régine Biscoe Lee, President and CEO of the Guam Visitors Bureau.
“Their performances reflected more than entertainment by showcasing the genuine friendships and deep cultural connections that have linked Guam with both Japan and Taiwan for generations. Moments like these remind us that our traditions and Håfa Adai spirit strengthen the bonds between our communities, promote enduring peace, and create meaningful experiences for both residents and visitors.”
International Performers Return to Guam
AMATA, a yosakoi performance group based in Hokkaido and Tokyo, returned to Guam after appearing at the Liberation Weekend Block Party in 2024. The group also earned first place in the Contemporary Division at the inaugural Guam International Dance Festival held in December 2025, further strengthening its connection with the island.
Joining AMATA was Guma’ Taotao Kinahulo’ Atdao na Tåno’, a CHamoru cultural dance group based in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Led by Asami Nohira and guided by CHamoru cultural master Frank Rabon, the organization became Japan’s first officially recognized CHamoru dance group in 2011.
Its members, ranging from children to adults, are dedicated to preserving and promoting CHamoru traditions through dance and cultural education.
Taiwan Delegation Returns for Third Consecutive Year
The Taiwan Falun Dafa Waist Drum Team, consisting of approximately 70 performers, arrived on Guam on July 18 and spent several days performing across multiple villages and venues throughout the island.
This marked the group’s third consecutive year participating in Guam’s Liberation Day celebrations.
Beyond its colorful waist drum performances, the delegation described its visit as a gesture of friendship and solidarity, expressing support for Guam’s continued recovery following recent typhoons. Members also demonstrated traditional Falun Dafa exercises while promoting cultural understanding between Taiwan and Guam.
Cultural Exchange Beyond the Stage
During their stay, members of Guma’ Taotao Kinahulo’ Atdao na Tåno’ participated in a CHamoru cultural workshop conducted by Master Frank Rabon at the Barrigada Mayor’s Office and Community Center.
The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of CHamoru traditions while strengthening relationships with Guam’s cultural community.
Meanwhile, the Taiwan Falun Dafa Waist Drum Team continued its island-wide performances, bringing traditional music and cultural demonstrations to communities beyond Tumon.
Tourism Through Culture
The Guam Visitors Bureau said the participation of the visiting groups reflects its ongoing strategy of using cultural exchange to strengthen relationships with Guam’s key tourism markets, particularly Japan and Taiwan.
By supporting cultural performances and community events, GVB aims to increase international awareness of Guam’s history, traditions, and Håfa Adai spirit while encouraging meaningful connections between residents and visitors.
The bureau also thanked the performers, families, cultural leaders, event organizers, and community partners whose collaboration made the international participation in the 82nd Liberation Day celebration possible.
For Guam, the annual Liberation Day festivities continue to serve not only as a commemoration of the island’s history but also as an opportunity to celebrate the enduring friendships that connect the Pacific through culture, tourism, and shared traditions.
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