Cante Alentejano, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, made its way to Japan. On 10 and 11 May, the Rancho de Cantadores de Vila Nova de São Bento gave deeply moving performances, bringing to Expo 2025 Osaka the earthy strength of a tradition born of community.
To mark this participation, the Alentejo Regional Coordination and Development Commission curated a three-day programme — from 9 to 11 May — to honour the region’s cultural heritage and longstanding connection with Japan. The programme introduced the Japanese public to the Alentejo’s rich intangible heritage, with particular emphasis on Cante Alentejano.
On 10 May, the Rancho de Cantadores de Vila Nova de São Bento performed in their own name, sharing the power of an oral tradition still very much alive in the communities of Lower Alentejo. With no instruments — just voices blending in unison and counterpoint — they moved the Japanese audience with faithful renditions rooted in centuries-old customs.
To mark this participation, the Alentejo Regional Coordination and Development Commission curated a three-day programme — from 9 to 11 May — to honour the region’s cultural heritage and longstanding connection with Japan. The programme introduced the Japanese public to the Alentejo’s rich intangible heritage, with particular emphasis on Cante Alentejano.
On 10 May, the Rancho de Cantadores de Vila Nova de São Bento performed in their own name, sharing the power of an oral tradition still very much alive in the communities of Lower Alentejo. With no instruments — just voices blending in unison and counterpoint — they moved the Japanese audience with faithful renditions rooted in centuries-old customs.
The following day, singer António Zambujo took to the stage at the Portuguese Pavilion, joined by the Rancho de Cantadores de Aldeia Nova de São Bento, in a performance that bridged tradition and modernity. This unique moment brought together the authenticity of Cante with the emotive energy of fado, creating a fusion of musical roots that deeply touched the audience.
“Unforgettable, magical moments at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan! António Zambujo and the Rancho de Cantadores de Aldeia Nova de São Bento enchanted the audience with a deeply moving performance that blended Alentejo tradition with the vibrant energy of fado. The powerful voices and captivating stage presence transported everyone to the roots of Portuguese music, showcasing the richness of our culture on an international stage,” shared the artist on social media.
The programme also featured replicas of the Namban screens — a symbol of cultural exchange between Portugal and Japan — as well as traditional practices such as Arte Chocalheira (rattle-making), Bonecos de Estremoz (clay figures), and the Festas do Povo de Campo Maior (Campo Maior folk festivals), all of which are also recognised by UNESCO.
Through this powerful presence at Expo 2025 Osaka, the Alentejo showed that cultures meet in voice and emotion — and that Portugal’s intangible heritage holds a meaningful place on the world stage.
Watch the video.
“Unforgettable, magical moments at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan! António Zambujo and the Rancho de Cantadores de Aldeia Nova de São Bento enchanted the audience with a deeply moving performance that blended Alentejo tradition with the vibrant energy of fado. The powerful voices and captivating stage presence transported everyone to the roots of Portuguese music, showcasing the richness of our culture on an international stage,” shared the artist on social media.
The programme also featured replicas of the Namban screens — a symbol of cultural exchange between Portugal and Japan — as well as traditional practices such as Arte Chocalheira (rattle-making), Bonecos de Estremoz (clay figures), and the Festas do Povo de Campo Maior (Campo Maior folk festivals), all of which are also recognised by UNESCO.
Through this powerful presence at Expo 2025 Osaka, the Alentejo showed that cultures meet in voice and emotion — and that Portugal’s intangible heritage holds a meaningful place on the world stage.
Watch the video.
