Düsseldorf is also known as "Japan's capital on the Rhine" - and quite rightly so. Over 8,000 Japanese live and work here. One of the largest communities in Europe. In our quick tips for short trips, discover five places and events that will bring you closer to Japanese culture and Japanese life in Düsseldorf. From the big Japan Festival to the Garden of Reflection.
Tip 1Garden of contemplation
Filigree black pines, Japanese fan maples and traditional stone carvings - every tree, every pond and every stone in the "Japanese Garden on the Rhine" has a deeper symbolic meaning according to Far Eastern mythology. The trees here are called the "tree of the upright walk", for example, and the island in the pond symbolises an island of the immortals. A circular path leads visitors through the park - and to themselves.
www.visitduesseldorf.de/attraktionen/japanischer-garten
Tip 2Japanese culture in the EKŌ-Haus
The EKO House in the Niederkassel district is the religious and cultural centre in Düsseldorf. Here you will find a Buddhist temple, Japanese gardens and a house in traditional Japanese style with a tea room. Why not drop by - for a tea ceremony or a workshop in Japanese arts such as ink painting or calligraphy.
www.visitduesseldorf.de/attraktionen/eko-haus
Tip 3Japan Day
Every year, Düsseldorf celebrates a big festival in honour of German-Japanese friendship. There are stage shows and hands-on activities such as manga workshops and kimono try-ons right on the Rhine during Japan Day. The Rhine embankment promenade then becomes a promenade - with delicious Japanese cuisine. The highlight is a Japanese themed firework display at the end of the day.
Tip 4Feasting in Little Tokyo
Tokyo or Düsseldorf? Anyone longing for the vibrancy of Asian metropolises will find it around Immermannstraße in the Japanese quarter. Nowhere else in Europe is Japanese life so concentrated. Here you will find the tastiest ramen snack bars, restaurants, bookshops, supermarkets and izakayas - Japanese pubs. Whether manga fans, foodies or business people - everyone comes together here for sushi, sake and Altbier.
https://www.visitduesseldorf.de/erleben/sehenswertes/little-tokyo-duesseldorf
Tip 5Cherry blossom race day
The Düsseldorf racecourse combines its first race day of the year with the Japanese tradition of Hanami, where cherry blossom festivals are celebrated every spring. A supporting programme provides an insight into Japanese culture.
www.duesseldorf-galopp.de
