(VOVworld) - Cherry blossoms are showcased in downtown Hanoi as part of activities to expand the Vietnam-Japan comprehensive strategic partnership. Addressing a ceremony on Friday night, Nguyen Doan Toan, Vice Chairman of Hanoi People’s Committee, stressed the significance of the event: “The Japanese cultural exchange program and cherry blossom exhibition are one of practical activities to boost mutual understanding and relations between Vietnam and Japan. They illustrate Japan’s interest in Vietnam and Hanoi.”

Hanoiains enjoy cherry blossoms as it drizzles on March 11

150 cherry blossom trees and 7,000 cherry blossom branches imported from Japan are being put on show at Ly Thai To statue garden until Sunday. Le Thi Tam is one of the visitors: “It’s marvelous to watch the cherry blossoms this year. The flowers are fresh and festival is big. This program makes Hanoi more beautiful and forges friendship between Vietnam and Japan.

Besides the display of cherry blossoms, there will be traditional art performances by Vietnamese and Japanese artists. A workshop will also be held during the event to promote tourism investment between Hanoi and Japan.