Cherry Blossom Festival at the Japanese Garden in Hasselt

On March 25, the Cherry Blossom Festival was held at the Japanese Garden in Hasselt, in attendance of Ambassador Hayashi, his spouse and Ms. Kono. Following the speeches by Hasselt Mayor Ms. Nadja Vananroye and Deputy Mayor Ms. Karolien Mondelaers, Ambassador Hayashi said that the Japanese Garden, which is located in Hasselt, sister city of Itami, is one of the most prominent in Europe and is loved not only by the citizens of Hasselt but by Belgian people in general. It is being beautifully maintained and is a symbol of the friendship relations between Japan and Belgium. The speeches were followed by the ceremonial opening of a sake barrel, allowing visitors of the garden to enjoy sake produced in Itami. At the garden, art works by Belgian artist Ms. Roos Van de Velde, who is inspired by Japanese culture, were exhibited, so visitors could enjoy the garden together with the artworks.