A Japanese film fest, a poster exhibit and a bamboo star festival of wishes in Baguio City will mark this year’s celebration of Philippine-Japan Friendship Day.

Titled “Over the Milky Way,” the cultural exchange program takes its cue from the Tanabata Festival celebrated every 7th of July in Japan. Among the activities lined up are:

1. Japanese Film Festival

Twelve selected Japanese films will be screened until July 15 at the following universities: Benguet State University, University of Baguio, Saint Louis University, University of the Cordilleras and University of the Philippines-Baguio. Another film showing will run from July 18 to 27 at the Baguio Museum.

2. Photo Exchange/Poster Exhibition

Runs July 8 to July 30 at the Baguio Museum. The exhibit features 15 scenic shots taken in Japan by Filipino photographer Kidlat de Guia, as well as 15 Philippine landscape photos taken by Japanese photographer Yasuhiko Naoi. Japanese posters will also be on display.

3.  Tanabata (Bamboo) Star Festival 2

Children will be asked to write their wishes on colorful strips of paper to adorn bamboo trees, akin to decorations hung on Christmas trees. Origami will also be taught, followed by the much-anticipated cosplay. Runs July 8-30 at the Baguio Museum.