Thousands of locals, residents and visitors have been treated to the sights, sounds and tastes of Japan at the 2025 Japan Festival in Vientiane Capital on 14-15 February
The event is the biggest Japanese festival in Laos. It has been running once every two or three years since 2011.
This long-awaited event returned to Vientiane this year with 3,500 visitors, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos.
The Japan Festival in Laos kicked off with a warm welcome from Darany Phommavongsa, Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, and Koizumi Tsutomu, the Japanese Ambassador to Laos, along with diplomats, dignitaries, and the public.
Ambassador Koizumi marked the 70th anniversary of Japan-Laos diplomatic relations, highlighting the strong ties in economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges. He expressed hope that the festival would help deepen the relationship between the two nations.
The cultural program began with a lively concert, featuring a dance performance by the Reuanglao Dance Company, followed by the Shishimai (Japanese lion dance) by Takafuji Ukon. Ukon’s performance, which included a staged lion transformation. Japanese singer Krage also performed.
On the second day, the festival featured a variety of performances, including music, dance, and martial arts by local school students and JICA volunteers. Suzuki Mohri, a calligraphy artist, displayed their work “Friendship.” Highlights also included a sake and beer tasting, a quiz on Japanese tourist spots, a talk show by Tanu Vannasin, and a Cosplay show. The event concluded with the “Lao Bon Odori,” a special dance created by Ukon, with over 200 people dancing to celebrate the Japan-Laos friendship.
During the Festival, Japanese-related organizations exhibited booths and entertained visitors with various exhibits and cultural experience activities. The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Laos and Parkson Laos hosted a Japanese food and merchandise fair, bringing food, music and art together, providing visitors with dazzlingly delightful moments at the Japan Festival.
A public school in Vientiane Capital is the first of 150 schools across Laos to install an AI-supported air quality sensor, marking a major step toward real-time monitoring of harmful air pollutants.
Launched by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Laos in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE), UNICEF East Asia Pacific’s Frontier Data Network, with support from the United Kingdom. tech company Arm Holdings through the UNICEF Office of Innovation, this initiative will deploy sensors in every district nationwide.
Laos is among the most polluted countries in Southeast Asia, yet until now, very few sensors have tracked air quality. In the broader East Asia and Pacific region, UNICEF estimates that over 100 children under five lose their lives every day to causes linked to air pollution.
By introducing advanced monitoring devices in schools, authorities will have localized data—district by district and even neighborhood by neighborhood—enabling them to protect children’s health. Recently, Thailand closed its schools due to dangerous air quality, a decision that the government was able to make based on trusted data collection, which is delivered by the AQ sensors. This also promoted action to procure air purification systems for classrooms.
The sensors measure pollutants in real-time and feed the data into public platforms like OpenAQ. School officials and local authorities can quickly identify unsafe air pollution levels and take precautionary measures, such as suspending classes when necessary. This ensures a safer learning environment and helps communities understand the risks of air pollution so they can respond proactively.
The installation of 150 sensors is accompanied by hands-on training for teachers, students, and local officials. This includes guidance on assembling and maintaining the monitors, interpreting air quality data, and applying AI-based forecasting tools where needed in the future.
Building on Regional Success
Key partners—including Maker Box Lao, Lao Telecom, and technical experts—participated in workshops led by AirGradient in Thailand to learn best practices for accurate calibration, data analysis, and AI-driven predictions. The workshops also included expert insights from representatives from Thailand Clean Air Network and National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand. These skills will help Laos create a more robust nationwide monitoring network, ensuring communities can detect pollution spikes and act swiftly.
With these sensors in place, policy decisions can be backed by reliable data, shaping long-term strategies for cleaner air and stronger climate resilience. Beyond the immediate health benefits, the system fosters community engagement: students learn about the science of air quality, local authorities refine their response strategies, and families gain vital information for safeguarding children’s health.
As this project expands, UNICEF and its partners remain committed to ensuring every district in Laos benefits from real-time air quality monitoring. Together, they aim to reduce the health risks posed by pollution, create a safer environment for students, and build a healthier future for all children in Laos.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Laos-to-Receive-AI-Sensors-for-Nationwide-Air-Quality-Monitoring.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-24 08:11:372025-02-13 08:13:31Laos to Receive AI Sensors for Nationwide Air Quality Monitoring
On 12 February, Luang Prabang authorities announced new traffic regulations and the schedule for a free public bus service trial, which will run from 24 February to 2 March. This initiative is designed to improve traffic flow and promote the use of public transportation during the trial period.
The Luang Prabang Transport Department had previously revealed plans to introduce free public bus services on three key routes: That Luang to Kuang Si Waterfall, That Luang to the Luang Prabang Train Station, and That Luang to Khan River, Mekong River, and Pak Khan Intersection.
As part of the project, three Green Bus routes will operate with designated schedules.
The first route has nine buses operating from That Luang to the Khan and Mekong Rivers from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, with a bus arriving every 10 minutes across 18 stops.
The second route has five buses running from That Luang to Kuang Si Waterfall from 6:00 am to 7:30 pm every hour, covering 43 stops.
The third route has four buses serving That Luang to the Lao-China Railway Station on the same schedule, stopping at 31 locations.
In addition to the main bus service, the project will also include a free tuk-tuk service. These tuk-tuks will operate along the route from That Luang to Pak Khan three-way-junction, running from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, with a service frequency of every 5 to 10 minutes.
To ensure smoother traffic flow during the trial period, restrictions will be imposed in the central city area.
Between 8:00 am and 12:00 pm, and again from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm, private vehicles will not be allowed on Sisavangvong road, Sakkaline road, and roads near the Khan and Mekong Rivers. Only project-approved vehicles, including buses and tuk-tuks, will be permitted in these areas. However, walking and bicycling will still be allowed.
Further regulations will also apply to tourist shuttle vans, which will be prohibited from entering the Luang Prabang heritage zone during the trial. Instead, they will be required to drop off and pick up passengers at That Luang, where travelers can transfer to the free shuttle buses to reach their destinations.
This initiative is supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as part of the Sustainable Transportation Planning Project under the Car-Free Zone Pilot Project 2. The primary goal is to encourage the use of public transportation, reduce reliance on personal vehicles, alleviate traffic congestion, and provide a better experience for tourists exploring the city.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/B79I9341-copy-1-2048x1365-1.jpg13652048Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-02-21 08:09:332025-02-13 08:11:15Luang Prabang Introduces Traffic Regulations for Free Bus Service Trial
Japan Festival Celebrates 70th Anniversary of Japan-Laos Diplomatic Relations
Thousands of locals, residents and visitors have been treated to the sights, sounds and tastes of Japan at the 2025 Japan Festival in Vientiane Capital on 14-15 February
The event is the biggest Japanese festival in Laos. It has been running once every two or three years since 2011.
This long-awaited event returned to Vientiane this year with 3,500 visitors, celebrating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos.
The Japan Festival in Laos kicked off with a warm welcome from Darany Phommavongsa, Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, and Koizumi Tsutomu, the Japanese Ambassador to Laos, along with diplomats, dignitaries, and the public.
Ambassador Koizumi marked the 70th anniversary of Japan-Laos diplomatic relations, highlighting the strong ties in economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges. He expressed hope that the festival would help deepen the relationship between the two nations.
The cultural program began with a lively concert, featuring a dance performance by the Reuanglao Dance Company, followed by the Shishimai (Japanese lion dance) by Takafuji Ukon. Ukon’s performance, which included a staged lion transformation. Japanese singer Krage also performed.
On the second day, the festival featured a variety of performances, including music, dance, and martial arts by local school students and JICA volunteers. Suzuki Mohri, a calligraphy artist, displayed their work “Friendship.” Highlights also included a sake and beer tasting, a quiz on Japanese tourist spots, a talk show by Tanu Vannasin, and a Cosplay show. The event concluded with the “Lao Bon Odori,” a special dance created by Ukon, with over 200 people dancing to celebrate the Japan-Laos friendship.
During the Festival, Japanese-related organizations exhibited booths and entertained visitors with various exhibits and cultural experience activities. The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Laos and Parkson Laos hosted a Japanese food and merchandise fair, bringing food, music and art together, providing visitors with dazzlingly delightful moments at the Japan Festival.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/02/17/japan-festival-celebrates-70th-anniversary-of-japan-laos-diplomatic-relations/
Laos to Receive AI Sensors for Nationwide Air Quality Monitoring
A public school in Vientiane Capital is the first of 150 schools across Laos to install an AI-supported air quality sensor, marking a major step toward real-time monitoring of harmful air pollutants.
Launched by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Laos in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES), the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE), UNICEF East Asia Pacific’s Frontier Data Network, with support from the United Kingdom. tech company Arm Holdings through the UNICEF Office of Innovation, this initiative will deploy sensors in every district nationwide.
Laos is among the most polluted countries in Southeast Asia, yet until now, very few sensors have tracked air quality. In the broader East Asia and Pacific region, UNICEF estimates that over 100 children under five lose their lives every day to causes linked to air pollution.
By introducing advanced monitoring devices in schools, authorities will have localized data—district by district and even neighborhood by neighborhood—enabling them to protect children’s health. Recently, Thailand closed its schools due to dangerous air quality, a decision that the government was able to make based on trusted data collection, which is delivered by the AQ sensors. This also promoted action to procure air purification systems for classrooms.
The sensors measure pollutants in real-time and feed the data into public platforms like OpenAQ. School officials and local authorities can quickly identify unsafe air pollution levels and take precautionary measures, such as suspending classes when necessary. This ensures a safer learning environment and helps communities understand the risks of air pollution so they can respond proactively.
The installation of 150 sensors is accompanied by hands-on training for teachers, students, and local officials. This includes guidance on assembling and maintaining the monitors, interpreting air quality data, and applying AI-based forecasting tools where needed in the future.
Building on Regional Success
Key partners—including Maker Box Lao, Lao Telecom, and technical experts—participated in workshops led by AirGradient in Thailand to learn best practices for accurate calibration, data analysis, and AI-driven predictions. The workshops also included expert insights from representatives from Thailand Clean Air Network and National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand. These skills will help Laos create a more robust nationwide monitoring network, ensuring communities can detect pollution spikes and act swiftly.
With these sensors in place, policy decisions can be backed by reliable data, shaping long-term strategies for cleaner air and stronger climate resilience. Beyond the immediate health benefits, the system fosters community engagement: students learn about the science of air quality, local authorities refine their response strategies, and families gain vital information for safeguarding children’s health.
As this project expands, UNICEF and its partners remain committed to ensuring every district in Laos benefits from real-time air quality monitoring. Together, they aim to reduce the health risks posed by pollution, create a safer environment for students, and build a healthier future for all children in Laos.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/02/12/laos-to-receive-ai-sensors-for-nationwide-air-quality-monitoring/
Luang Prabang Introduces Traffic Regulations for Free Bus Service Trial
On 12 February, Luang Prabang authorities announced new traffic regulations and the schedule for a free public bus service trial, which will run from 24 February to 2 March. This initiative is designed to improve traffic flow and promote the use of public transportation during the trial period.
The Luang Prabang Transport Department had previously revealed plans to introduce free public bus services on three key routes: That Luang to Kuang Si Waterfall, That Luang to the Luang Prabang Train Station, and That Luang to Khan River, Mekong River, and Pak Khan Intersection.
As part of the project, three Green Bus routes will operate with designated schedules.
The first route has nine buses operating from That Luang to the Khan and Mekong Rivers from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, with a bus arriving every 10 minutes across 18 stops.
The second route has five buses running from That Luang to Kuang Si Waterfall from 6:00 am to 7:30 pm every hour, covering 43 stops.
The third route has four buses serving That Luang to the Lao-China Railway Station on the same schedule, stopping at 31 locations.
In addition to the main bus service, the project will also include a free tuk-tuk service. These tuk-tuks will operate along the route from That Luang to Pak Khan three-way-junction, running from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, with a service frequency of every 5 to 10 minutes.
To ensure smoother traffic flow during the trial period, restrictions will be imposed in the central city area.
Between 8:00 am and 12:00 pm, and again from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm, private vehicles will not be allowed on Sisavangvong road, Sakkaline road, and roads near the Khan and Mekong Rivers. Only project-approved vehicles, including buses and tuk-tuks, will be permitted in these areas. However, walking and bicycling will still be allowed.
Further regulations will also apply to tourist shuttle vans, which will be prohibited from entering the Luang Prabang heritage zone during the trial. Instead, they will be required to drop off and pick up passengers at That Luang, where travelers can transfer to the free shuttle buses to reach their destinations.
This initiative is supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as part of the Sustainable Transportation Planning Project under the Car-Free Zone Pilot Project 2. The primary goal is to encourage the use of public transportation, reduce reliance on personal vehicles, alleviate traffic congestion, and provide a better experience for tourists exploring the city.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/02/12/luang-prabang-introduces-traffic-regulations-for-free-bus-service-trial/