BJA Friendship Committee: Hanami festival in the Japanese Garden of Hasselt

The BJA Friendship Committee (FCOM) is happy to invite you for a cheerful afternoon at the beautiful Japanese garden of Hasselt on Saturday, 28 March.

Experience hanami in one of the largest Japanese gardens in Europe designed by Japanese landscape architect Inoue Takayuki. After a scenic stroll amidst the scenery of big rocks, bridges and a tea house, we can have a well-deserved rest under no less than 225 cherry trees. While gazing at these beautiful yet short-lived blossoming trees, we may reflect on the importance of cherishing our lives and our loved ones, as life is merely a series of fleeting moments.

Let us together celebrate 160 years of Friendship between Japan and Belgium under the gorgeous ‘Sakura’ trees – join us with your families and friends!

When?

Saturday, 28th of March 2026, 13:00 to 16:00

Where?

Japanese garden: Gouverneur Verwilghensingel 15, 3500 Hasselt

(Click here for more information on accessibility and parking at the garden)

Meeting point

At 13:00, at the main entrance gate

Participation fee

BJA Members: Free of charge (online registration is mandatory)
Non-members: 15 €

Please note: the garden entrance fee is payable by participants on the spot.

The first drink is offered by FCOM; additional drinks and finger food can be purchased by participants.

Program

13:00	Welcome at the main entrance gate
13:15	Walk & Talk through the Garden together
14:00	Refreshment break near the Garden Pavilion and the Sakura trees (FCOM will offer the first drink)
16:00	End of gathering with a further opportunity to walk through the garden

This is a family-friendly event — partners and children are more than welcome to join and enjoy the festive spirit together.

Contact or Questions

Stephy: 0470 72 09 88 or bja.fc.organiser@gmail.com

Please make your reservation latest by 20 March.
Registration may be closed before this date once it is full.
Registrations are made automatically upon completion of the online form, on a first come, first served basis, with limited capacity.
Cancellations with refund are accepted until 24 March.