HÀ NỘI — Over 150 Japanese cherry blossom trees will be on show during the Việt Nam-Japan Cultural Exchange Programme and cherry blossom exhibition that will take place at Lý Thái Tổ Garden on March 10-12.

Together with trees that are being transported to Việt Nam from Japan by sea, about 7,000 cherry blossom branches are also being flown into Việt Nam for the cultural programme.

According to Trương Minh Tiến, the deputy director of Hà Nội’s Department of Culture and Sports, the event aims to introduce and promote the image and cultural beauty of Japan to the people of Hà Nội. At the same time, it is an opportunity for both countries to exchange experiences and enhance collaboration in culture, tourism and economics. Mutual understanding, trust and solidarity between Hà Nội and Japan will be strengthened.

“The activities within the programme will improve understanding among the people of Hà Nội about Japanese people and culture as well as tightening the relationship between the two countries,” he said.

The opening day of the Việt Nam-Japan Cultural Exchange Programme will feature performances of traditional arts by both Vietnamese and Japanese artists like Japanese drum dancing or Việt Nam’s xẩm or ca trù (ceremony) singing, in addition to a photo exhibition of cherry blossoms and display of a Japanese tea ceremony. A modern fire engine, a gift from Japan to Hà Nội, will be on show during the programme.

Also on the occasion, a seminar on investment and tourism co-operation between Hà Nội and Japan will be organised at Melia Hotel.

“After the event, 150 cherry blossoms will be taken care of by Hanoi Green Park Joint Stock Company. We hope to organise next year’s programme close to the lunar New Year so that both Vietnamese peach flowers and Japanese cherry blossom can be showcased together,” Tiến said. — VNS