Cherry Blossom Festival: Spring Scenery in Coria del Rio

Coria del Río is a city in the Andalusia region of Spain, located in the province of Seville. Known for its beautiful scenery and historic architecture, it sits about a 20-minute drive from the city of Seville.

In Coria, the cherry trees planted last year by Ms. Mayuzumi, Mr. Ota, Mr. Kimura, Mr. Wada, and others, as well as the cherry trees from Choir Hagi and JCH Tomo, were in bloom. The city’s first cherry-blossom viewing event was a great success. At the park featuring the statue of Hasekura Tsunenaga, visitors enjoyed karate and kickboxing demonstrations, as well as traditional bon odori performed by women in yukata. Local children created drawings of the cherry blossoms, filling the venue with the vibrant scenery of trees in full bloom.

Women studying flamenco and Spanish in Seville also joined the festivities and performed the traditional Tankō Bushi dance in yukata. Their graceful presence was warmly received, and many local residents joined in as well.

Later in the evening, members of the Japón families attended a reception together with the Kaze no Wa Concert participants. Around twenty Japón family members were welcomed, and the event featured a special performance by professional soprano Natalie, whose dynamic rhythms and joyful expressions energized the entire venue.

This year’s 8th Kaze no Wa Concert will be joined by nine members of the Japón family and their relatives, as well as the city librarian and his wife—making the event something to look forward to even more. Moments of surprise and joy passed quickly, but the memories created were truly unforgettable.

Additional Note

On February 28, 1985, Crown Prince Akihito and Crown Princess Michiko made an official visit to Spain. As part of their itinerary, they visited the University of Salamanca—one of Spain’s most prestigious and historic universities, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.This visit played an important role in strengthening the friendship between Japan and Spain and promoting cultural exchange. A commemorative inscription remains on the walls of the University of Salamanca to mark the occasion. Visits and exchanges of this kind continue to play a key role in deepening ties between the two nations.