BCCI takes part in the celebration of the traditional cherry blossom festival Hanami

The spring festival of cherry blossoming Hanami was held in front of the National Library "St. St. Cyril and Methodius", where Japanese cherry trees bloom. The trees were planted in 1999 on the occasion of the 90th anniversary since Japan and Bulgaria established first contacts, the 60th anniversary of building diplomatic relations between the two countries and the 40th anniversary of their regeneration. Japanese cherry trees have also been planted by the Tokai University in front of the Parliament, the Holy Synod and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Following the established tradition, the Children's Choir of the Bulgarian National Radio sang Japanese songs and greeted the participants and guests of the event, organized by the Tokai University Graduate Association for their friends in Bulgaria.

Special guest of the Hanami festival was the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan in the Republic of Bulgaria, H.E. Mr Hiroshi Narahira. A special invitation was sent to the chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Tsvetan Simeonov, who also took part in the celebration. The event was attended by representatives of the Bulgarian branch of the Tokai University Alumni Association, the SOGA Ikebana School, the Haiku Club, the "St St Cyril and Methodius" International Foundation and many friends of Japan in Bulgaria.