With around 8400 Japanese citizens, the Japanese community in Düsseldorf is the third largest in Europe after London and Paris. Once a year, the city celebrates a big festival in honor of German-Japanese friendship. On Japan Day, around 630,000 visitors come to the cultural festival on the Rhine every year, which is characterized by a varied programme with stage shows and hands-on activities. For example, the Rhine embankment promenade is transformed into a promenade of Japanese culture and lifestyle.
More than 400 participants will present a stage program lasting around nine hours on the main stage at Burgplatz alone. Information and demonstration stands between Burgplatz and the Landtag will enable visitors to practise calligraphy, learn the secrets of the game of Go or take part in manga drawing workshops and kimono fittings. There will also be tastings of Japanese cuisine and traditional sake.
At the end of Japan Day, a Japanese themed firework display is set off every year. It is the largest Japanese fireworks display outside Japan.
