(VOVworld) – A cherry blossom (Sakura) festival called “A Japanese Cultural Feature in Ha Long” opened Thursday in Ha Long city, Quang Ninh province, attracting a large number of locals and visitors. This is part of activities to mark the 40^th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties and the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Year.

Japanese dance is featured in the opening ceremony. (Photo: giadinh.net.vn)

Dang Huy Hau, Vice chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, highlighted achievements in cooperation between the province and Japan’s organizations and localities, which has contributed to local socio-economic development. He said: "The Sakura festival creates a chance for local people and visitors to go deeper into Japan’s culture and people. It also helps Japanese get closer to Vietnam, a beautiful country, and the hospitality of Quang Ninh residents. We thank Japanese friends for coming a long way to bring 100 beautiful cherry trees to the festival today. They will deepen the fine Vietnam-Japan friendship".
Festival goers will also be treated to specialties of Japan and Quang Ninh province, a Japanese tea ceremony, and a tuna cooking demonstration by Japanese chefs. The festival will close on Saturday.

Festival goers are interested in tuna cooking demonstration by Japanese chefs. (Photo:giadinh.net.vn)