Japan Day in Duesseldorf

Every year in May, Japan and the citizens of the Rhine come together in the much anticipated “Japan Day,” now in its 16th year. It’s always a colorful day filled with Japanese influenced events, food and souvenirs in tents along the river Rhine  promenade.

Little groups of youths mostly in their late teens and twenties, dressed in elaborate Manga inspired costumes will fill-up the streets.  They’re either cute, zombie like or simply fascinating little characters who are  happy to pose for a photo or two.

At around 11 p.m. in the evening, the traditional firework will take place on the other side of the river. It’s a spectacular feast for one’s eyes and the highlight of the day. Every year hundreds of thousands of visitors are drawn to the fireworks like a moth to a flame.

This year’s firework orchestra was filled with delightful surprises again. Heart-shaped fireworks, flowers, palm-trees, shooting stars and waterfalls filled with golden water lit up the dark sky.

Over 6500 Japanese citizens live in Duesseldorf, making it the largest Japanese community in Europe. This year’s Japan Day took place on May 20th.