As part of a cultural exchange, Japanese dance master Ueda Chiho and musician Kikuchi Yutaka arrived in Ashgabat, as reported by "Turkmenistan: Golden age". During their week-long visit, they conducted master classes for students at the conservatory, the specialized music school, and the Institute of Culture, introducing them to Kabuki theater, traditional dances, and the shamisen musical instrument.

At the open lesson, the guests were deeply impressed by the energy and spirit of the ancient Turkmen dance kushtdepdi. Their fascination quickly turned into enthusiasm – they didn’t just watch but eagerly joined the students in learning the dance moves.

Later, Ueda Chiho performed a mesmerizing sakura blossom dance accompanied by the shamisen, sharing the delicate techniques of Japanese movement. The cultural exchange concluded with a visit to the Institute’s museum, where the Japanese guests admired Turkmen embroidery, a UNESCO-listed heritage, and marveled at its ancient craftsmanship.