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Cherry Blossom Festival Brings Asian Tradition to Berlin

April 15th, 2014
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News from Berlin - On Sunday, April 13th it was time again to celebrate the beginning of spring, indicated each year by the blooming of cherry blossom trees. The tradition has its origins in Asia, but has become quite popular in Europe over the past few years.

The event took place in East Berlin’s “Gärten der Welt” (Gardens of the World). Last year, due to a long and cold winter, the participants were not able to enjoy the beauty of the plants, however this year made up for it, with sunny weather and spring flora adding to the general feeling that spring was in the air.

For the eighth time, more than 15,000 visitors strolled around the gardens which span 20 hectares. Different programs were on offer throughout the day, both to celebrate the occasion and to give Berliners an insight into East-Asian culture.

Since China is the event’s partner country this year, there were special performances in the Chinese Garden. Visitors could enjoy Chinese choirs, fashion shows, dances, and theater performances. Those interested in Japanese culture could experience traditional ways of Taiko – a form of drumming which teaches you to control your body – or be immersed in the art of tea making. Korean representatives invited the guests to attend various performances, including of the Korean Mandolin-Ensemble, Korean dancers and even of Taekwondo-Fighters.

Equally as impressive was the increasing amount of visitors who personally take part in adding to the atmosphere by wearing Cosplay costumes and dressing up like characters from Japanese Manga comic books. There was something on offer for everyone with Berliners enjoyed the experience of Asian culture in the sun. News from Berlin – Berlin Global