Hanami 2025

Hanami 2025: Cherry Blossom Festival at Wereldmuseum Leiden

On Sunday 23 March 2025, Wereldmuseum Leiden will celebrate the annual Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival. The day is dedicated to the deep-seeded Japanese tradition of admiring the cherry blossoms (sakura), which symbolise transience, new opportunities and enjoying the moment. 

The cherry trees at the museum entrance, donated by Japan years ago, are in full bloom on this day. This year is particularly special as it is exactly 425 years since trade relations between the Netherlands and Japan began. The Japanese ambassador, Hiroshi Minami, will open the festival, followed by an impressive Taiko drumming performance. Visitors can enjoy a diverse programme of Japanese music and dance performances, calligraphy and origami workshops, lectures on the meaning of cherry blossom and an outdoor exhibition on the Japanese nature and culture connection. DJ Yuki Hoshi will be spinning Japanese vinyl, while food trucks and stalls selling Japanese pottery and ceramics will provide an authentic atmosphere. The festival is suitable for all ages and offers a unique opportunity to learn more about Japanese traditions. Don't miss it!

Hanami 2025
Hanami 2025, Boudewijn Bollmann