Cherry blossom festival spreads Dien Bien’s cultural identity (Photo: VOV)

10 years ago, Japan gave Dien Bien province 1,000 cherry trees, which have grown well in the local soil and climate. The cherry blossom festival has strengthened exchanges and enhanced solidarity and friendship between the two countries and introduce the image, culture, and people of Japan to Vietnam. It has also created investment cooperation opportunities and promoted the image and cultural identity of Dien Bien province's ethnic groups.

A variety of festival activities showed off the cultures of Japan and Vietnam’s northwestern region – an art exchange, a "Sake-Mong Pe" liquor party, Thang Co-O Den hotpot, local markets, and an exhibition of Dien Bien’s agricultural products.

Dao Hoai Nam, Vice Chairman of Dien Bien Phu city’s People's Committee and the festival’s chief organizer, said: "The festival attracted a large number of visitors. They enjoyed folk games and culinary exchanges and bought some high quality products."

The 3-day festival, which ended on Sunday, drew tens of thousands of Vietnamese and foreign visitors.

"I can feel the close bond between Vietnam and Japan. I’m surprised by the beautiful cherry blossom festival in Dien Bien. It’s very exciting. It has made me love my homeland more, " said Quan Thi Luyen, a visitor. 

"Despite the rain, everyone is excited about the festival. We’re impressed with Japanese culture and understand it better now.,' said Dang Thi Huong Giang. 

Cherry blossom festival-Dien Bien inaugurated political, cultural, and tourism activities to celebrate Dien Bien National Tourism Year, the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory, and the 115th founding anniversary of Dien Bien province.