Bula! Welcome to Min-On’s Music Journey! Today we’re traveling to a paradise floating in the South Pacific, the Republic of Fiji, alongside the Embassy of the Republic of Fiji in Japan.
“Bula” is a word used in Fiji as a greeting. In daily life, it’s often spoken to say hello or wish someone health and happiness. The friendly nature of the Fijian people, who cheerfully greet travelers from overseas with a smile and a “Bula!” is part of its charm.
• Try the traditional drink “kava” at the market in Suva • Experience a Meke show at the Fijian Cultural Village in Nadi • Listen to music from Vude, a dance music genre originating in Fiji
Fiji is an archipelago nation comprising over 330 islands. Known as one of the world’s premier resort destinations, it boasts a warm, comfortable climate and vibrant, surreal landscapes. On today’s journey, please enjoy a beautiful experience island-hopping through Fiji accompanied by the country’s music and dance.
Viti Levu
The largest of Fiji’s islands, Viti Levu is home to the majority of the country’s population. The capital city of Suva lies in the southeast, while the tourist hub of Nadi is located on the west coast, each offering distinct character.
Capital of Suva
Suva serves as the political and economic hub of Fiji, home to a number of international organizations and commercial facilities. Here, modern architecture and lush greenery converge to create a compelling cityscape.
ymgerman/iStock
Highlights include Thurston Gardens and the adjacent Fiji Museum, which showcases Fiji’s history from prehistoric times over 3,700 years ago.
Leamus/iStock (left) and ymgerman/iStock (right)
For a deeper cultural experience, visit the Suva Municipal Market near the main wharf or the Suva Handicraft Centre. Here, you’ll discover local seasonal vegetables, fruits, handicrafts, artwork and other unique items found only in Fiji.
Kava is a traditional Fijian beverage made by grinding the root of a pepper plant and mixing it with water. It has a unique calming effect and is used as both a refreshing drink and medicine, while also being an essential part of ceremonies. Some tours in Fiji may include participation in a kava ceremony, where observing proper etiquette and greetings is encouraged.
Nadi
This city thrives as a tourism hub and location of Fiji’s main international airport. It features a number of facilities highlighting Fijian culture. At VOU Hub Fiji, where you can experience local performing arts, the signature show is “Fiji Untold,” a fusion of storytelling, myth and dance.
Another highlight of Nadi is the Fiji Culture Village, where you can immerse yourself in traditional culture. From fire-making and pottery to mat weaving and a traditional Meke dance show, local Fijian culture stimulates all of the senses.
Distinctive islands
In Fiji, you can travel between islands by boat, and short island-hopping tours lasting just a day or overnight are quite popular.
Vanua Levu Island
The second-largest island in Fiji, Vanua Levu is a resort destination renowned for its untouched nature and beautiful coastline. Marine sports enjoyed against breathtaking scenery let you fully experience the appeal of warm, welcoming Fiji.
Ovalau Island
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Levuka is a port town on Ovalau Island that was once Fiji’s capital. Today it’s registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Historic Port Town of Levuka. It flourished as a trading hub for the British Protectorate in the early 19th century. However, when the capital was moved to Suva just a few years later, it became a historically valuable area where colonial buildings from that era remain preserved.
Other islands
Fiji is home to many species of birds. On Taveuni Island and Kadavu Island, you can enjoy birdwatching while surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This is a rare opportunity to encounter unique endemic species like the Orange Dove, the Fiji Swiftlet and the collared lory.
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Other unique experiences include crossing the International Date Line on Taveuni Island and witnessing the fire ceremony on Beqa Island.
Fiji is also a happy country, frequently ranked #1 in surveys like the “World Happiness Report.” The fundamental spirit that thrives in Fiji is “Kere Kere,” indicating sharing and mutual support. In Fiji, the value that “something isn’t truly yours until you share it” is deeply ingrained, fostering relationships where people readily ask each other for favors. There is also a culture of community-wide childcare, and locals tend to be kind and friendly toward visiting children.
Fiji’s music culture
Fiji is often called the “Crossroads of the South Pacific” and it’s home to diverse ethnic groups and cultures that coexist peacefully. Similarly, the music of Fiji blends regional traditions with elements from many diverse areas, creating a rich cultural tapestry.
Meke dance
This traditional dance involves men and women conveying stories of history, mythology and rituals through song and choreography. Characterized by performances using clubs, fans, spears and other props to the rhythm of the wooden slit drum called the “Lali,” it can be enjoyed at many locations throughout the country.
chameleonseye/iStock (left) MWayOut/iStock (right)
Vude
Vude is dance music originating in Fiji blending traditional music like Meke with Western genres such as reggae and pop. A prominent artist is Laisa Vulakoro, often called the Queen of Vude. Her appeal lies in songs that fuse modern music with the rhythms and melodies of Fiji.
In closing, please enjoy some performances by Fijian musicians.
- “Warrior of Love”- George “Fiji” Veikoso
- “Noqu Vanua”- KUKI
- “Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac – Covered by Marama
What did you think of your music journey to Fiji? There are still many more places to go! Please look forward to our next destination.
(Produced in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Fiji in Japan, who also provided photos.)
Min-On Concert Association
–Music Binds Our Hearts–