Hasselt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Japanese Garden in Hasselt opens early on March 1st, 2025 due to tourist demand and early cherry blossoms. Events include Kagami Biraki (March 1) and Hanami (March 8). Alderman Dehollogne announced extra staff for maintenance.
The Japanese Garden in Hasselt, the largest in Europe, will open earlier this year on March 1st, 2025. The city decided to open early because many tourists asked if they could visit in March 2025. According to officials, the cherry blossoms, are blooming earlier due to climate change.
Will Hasselt’s Japanese garden attract more than 140,000 visitors this year?
On March 1st, 2025 at 2:00 PM, they’ll have a traditional Japanese sake barrel opening ceremony called “Kagami Biraki.” Officials mentioned that visitors can watch the ceremony and even try some Japanese rice wine.
The garden will be open until October 31st 2025, from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They’ll have special hours on holidays. The garden hosts cultural events like tea ceremonies and calligraphy workshops.
Hanami, beginning on March 8, 2025. In the popular Japanese custom of hanami, or “flower viewing,” people get together to enjoy the cherry blossoms. Although the cherry trees may not be fully blooming just yet, officials said that tea ceremonies, tours, and performances will still provide an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture.
“Because of that and also because the garden is now open longer, a few more staff members have been added for maintenance and reception,”
Alderman Dehollogne added.
The Japanese Garden in Hasselt has been working hard to prepare for its extended season. They hired extra staff. Last year, a record 140,000 people visited the garden. The city hopes to continue providing a wonderful experience for all visitors with the extended season and additional staff.
