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Buenas tardes!
Let’s Learn about the “Countries” in Shinagawa! |
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A Fascinating Country Overflowing with Diversity
The Republic of Colombia
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The shoreline of San Andrés |
The Republic of Colombia is one of sixteen foreign countries with an embassy/consulate office in Shinagawa City. We introduce them in this series. Famous for its coffee, Colombia has the most diverse culture in South America. We asked H.E. Mr. Gabriel Duque, Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia to Japan, about the country’s wonderful culture.
Inquiries: International Affairs, Community Promotion Section
Tel: 5742-6691, Fax: 5742-6878
Reference: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and materials from the Embassy of the Republic of Colombia
Photos provided by: PROCOLOMBIA
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Ambassador Gabriel Duque |
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The Andes cross through Colombia, and the country has a variety of climates in different regions—the Caribbean area, the Pacific Ocean side, the mountain area and the Amazon. Since the mountains divide the country in terms of transportation, Colombia is rich in diverse natural scenery and culture as well. There are many attractive locations, with culture—such as music, dance, festivals and cuisines that display the roots of each area—as well as beautiful natural scenery and historical sites.
Colombia’s multiethnic population includes African, European immigrants and indigenous peoples, and the national character is overflowing with gentleness and hospitality. People love to dance here. In addition, most people are hard workers, so I think we are very much like the people of Japan.
I’m very happy to be stationed in Shinagawa City as the ambassador. There are many parks here that are rich in natural greenery as well as wonderful restaurants. I think all types of Japanese cuisine are wonderful. It is also fun to leisurely ride my bicycle along the Meguro River.
And one other thing: My heart is full of gratitude toward Shinagawa City because they offer facilities and cooperation whenever we conduct independence festivities or disaster prevention drills. I hope we can respond to such kindness by participating in local events and strengthening our friendly ties.
The Ambassador’s Residence of the Republic of Colombia
The residence of the Ambassador of Colombia is located in a quiet residential neighborhood near Meguro Station. Inside the elegant building is a gold-crafted replica from the culture of indigenous people, as well as furniture that blends Japanese and Western style, creating a beautiful atmosphere. Within the property, there is also a Japanese home with the ambience of a Japanese garden with beautiful cherry blossoms, which apparently is used as a guesthouse. |
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Let’s Learn Some Basic Facts about Colombia!
Country: The Republic of Colombia
Capital: Bogotá
Population: About 48 million (according to the World Bank’s 2014 survey)
Language: Spanish
Area of land: 1,139,000 km2 (about three times the size of Japan)
Currency: Peso
Each Region Has Diverse, Attractive Qualities
Colombia has much worth seeing and experiencing—the azure sea and beautiful coastline, the tropical jungle, the vast grassy plain and desert, and the mountain range that stretches for miles—as well as the culture born from these nature-rich surroundings.
Cartagena’s old town |
A bird’s-eye view of Bogotá
ⓒJulian Santacruz |
A colorful street in Guatapé
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Cartagena de Indias
This popular resort area once prospered as a port town along the Caribbean coast. In the port and the old town built during Spanish colonial days in 1533, fortresses stretch across about 11 kilometers, and there are clusters of monuments, such as private homes, the monastery and a church. They are registered as World Heritage Sites, creating an atmosphere of having traveled back in time. |
Bogotá
Colombia’s capital city, Bogotá is located on a high plane 2,600 meters above sea level. It is an international city with a population of about 9.5 million people. You can enjoy the historical district where buildings from Spanish colonial days still stand, as well as the Museo del Oro. |
Medellín
This city is a center of industry and commerce in the west. With a moderate climate, it is also known as “the town of eternal spring.” The cityscape of Guatapé, which is about an hour’s drive away, looks like a scene from a colorful picture book. |
World-Famous Products
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Coffee
Colombian coffee, which boasts the world number three ranking in production, is well known for its high quality and aroma. Although drip coffee is the mainstream in Colombia, Ambassador Duque is an enthusiastic fan of Japan’s can coffee (product of Colombia).
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Cut Flowers
Colombia ranks number two in the world in the production of cut flowers, and cultivates orchids that boast the top ranking in the world for the number of varieties, as well as hydrangeas and chrysanthemums.
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Emeralds
Colombia ranks number one in the mining of emeralds. The history of digging for these precious gems can be traced back to indigenous times. The quality of Colombian stones is high, and the characteristic is the deep green without a hint of blue.
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And There’s More!
Famous Colombian Products Make Their Way to Japan
Cacao: Along with coffee, Colombia’s cacao is world-class quality. Chocolate made from this high-quality cacao using Japanese technology won gold in 2015. It is such a favorite of Ambassador Duque that he claims to be an addict.
Pitaya: In recent years, Colombia, the kingdom of tropical fruits, has started to export pitaya (also known as dragon fruit) to Japan. The yellow, powerfully sweet pitaya is a mainstream product of Colombia. |
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