Circle of Life — Water Wall Performance Planten un Blomen

In 2025, the focus of the performance on the water wall in Planten un Blomen was not yet the combination of Japanese calligraphy and audiovisual staging — Circle of Life is a premiere of the 2026 vintage. The Japanese Kirschblütenfest as a framework proceeded as usual in 2025 with fireworks over the Outer Alster, tea ceremonies in the Japanese garden, and cultural events in the park.

Hamburg has fostered its cultural connection with Japan since 1968 — initiated by the city's Japanese community, together with the Japan Sakura Foundation. German-Japanese friendship is one of the more constant themes in Hamburg's cultural calendar, and the Kirschblütenfest is its most popular expression.