Cherry blossoms herald festival of Japan

The cherry blossoms are in bloom just in time for this year’s South West Festival of Japan.

Bunbury will turn Japanese tomorrow when the 10-day culture-packed festival takes over the city.

Kicking off tomorrow night, the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery will play host to a Japanese film festival with special guest Naoki Semmyo, Deputy Consul-General of Japan in Perth, opening the event.

“There will be a lot going on over the 10 days,” City of Bunbury senior international engagement officer Carol McDowall said.

“The opening event on Saturday will feature a Japanese tea ceremony, Japanese dancing, market stalls and plenty of food.

“Virtual workshops will be running from Monday to Friday and physical workshops for kids and adults will take places in the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery.

“Businesses in the CBD will also be holding events like anime screenings and karaoke and the Burlington Hotel as well as origami and calligraphy workshops.”

As part of the event there will also be a stamp rally.

“You can collect your stamp rally map from the Bunbury Visitors Centre, Victoria Street Deli or Rusticana,” Mrs McDowall said.

“Simply follow the map to discover Japan in Bunbury’s CBD and collect your virtual stamps along the way by scanning the QR codes. Collect all stamps and go into the raffle to win cool prizes.

“The festival is a great way to have some fun while experiencing the Japanese culture.”

The program will be available at the Bunbury council administration office and visitors centre.