Although some people will be relaxing under the cherry blossoms this weekend, others may be drawn to a ground-level attraction in Nagoya's Kiso Sansen Park, which is celebrating one of Holland's most attractive exports — the tulip.

The annual Tulip Festival runs until April 20, with more than 258,000 blooming bulbs and some 121 different varieties. Kiso Sansen Park's vast and colorful flower beds are the main draw for the crowds, but those who are not so horticulturally minded can also enjoy an array of other family-orientated attractions. In addition to stalls selling Dutch produce, Miffy — the well-known Dutch rabbit cartoon character from Dick Bruna's picture books — will be making personal appearances to pose for photos with those lucky enough to see her. Numerous shows will also be taking place on various days up to April 17, including concerts hosted by some NHK stars, a Dutch folk dance show and a Miffy family show.

The Tulip Festival takes place at Kiso Sansen Park till April 20. Open Mon-Fri, 10a.m. till 6 p.m. (Sat, Sun. from 8 a.m.) Admission is free. A free shuttle bus from Ogaki, Kuwana and Yoro Tetsudo Tado stations is available at weekends. For more information, visit www.nic-nagoya.or.jp.