Preparing and testing the Finnish food stall.
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Marko Saarelainen prepares a test pancake for Korpela Junior.
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The taste is approved!
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The first "almost Finish Sausage" customers.
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Many food stalls selling Japanese food...
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...drinks...
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...souvernirs....
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...snacks....
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...and even coucous, enjoyed by Ariyama-san.
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Koumi Mayor Koike (left) welcomes the guests of honour, Ambassador Julin and Ousmane Sankhon.
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Mayor Koike making welcome remarks, Ambassador Julin waiting for his turn.
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Ambassador Jorma Julin addressing the participants and explaining about Finnish Midsummer traditions.
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TV cameras following the proceedings.
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Ousmane Sankhon, a former Republic of Guinea diplomat and now a popular entertainer and philanthropist, was appointed African Goowdwill Ambassador to Koumi.
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Sankhon entertaining the crowd.
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A young band and young conductor.
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Japanese ladies enjoying saurages with Finnish style home-made mustard.
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...and Finns enjoying Japanese beer!
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Ambassador Julin and Sankhon wishing ach other good luck for the coming challenge...
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Equipped like old time warriors...
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The "weapons" need to be soaked in biodiesel.
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Lighting up.
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The 'fire men' getting ready.
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A unigue task for an Ambassador to Japan, putting fire on local property.
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Ambassador Julin and Mayor Koike performing their task.
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Fire starts snd smoke rises over the beautiful landscape.
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The VIPs posing for photos.
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Marko Saarelainen assisted by his son Moris explains about the kokko tradition.
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A local chorus group.
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Hiroko and Isao Niskumura with their local friend Nakao-san (center).
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The band and two very young dancers.
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'More commitment young man...'
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The 'lake kokko' being prepared.
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A lot of candles.
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Nagano Recorder Clun entertaining.
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Putting fire on the smaller kokko.
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Sailing out on lake Choko.
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Amazing fireworks!
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Leena Kinnunen sings Finnish traditional songs.
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New and old friends.
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The lake kokko burning well.
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An impressive 'Daidougei' (street) performance.
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Man with many faces.
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Getting prepared for the finla with a 'power drink'.
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Almost as much fire as the kokkos produced!
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Ukulele player.
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Ousmane Sankhon getting his portrait drawn followed by many fans.
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A jazz band from a Yamanashi music school presenting African music.
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A full moon watching over the party.
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Last performance of the evening, a young, talented saxophone player.
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Organizers relaxing after the party.
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