As spring gathers momentum and cherry blossoms bloom in all their beauty, it becomes a moment worth sharing. On April 23 at 1:30 PM, in the “Bičiulių Garden” (Didlaukio St. 55, Vilnius), Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) invites students, faculty, administrative staff, and guests to come together for a cozy Cherry Blossom Gathering.

It will be a time to connect, enjoy the spirit of spring, and take a break from the pace of everyday life. During the event, you will be able to enjoy tea and traditional Japanese treats, watch a performance by the Vilnius Aikido Club “Sūkurys,” try your creativity in a “Japan Cafe” origami workshop, and hear a welcome address from MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė.

Cherry blossoms, which symbolize spring and renewal, have also bloomed in the “Bičiulių Garden” established at MRU. Planted 10 years ago near the MRU Social Innovation Laboratories Center (MRU LAB), this garden has become a special place for the university community. It features 39 trees, each named with values such as “Freedom,” “Courage,” “Respect for Human Rights,” “Peace,” “Justice,” and others representing universal human ideals.

The garden concept was created by Kęstutis Ptakauskas, a pioneer of Japanese gardens in Lithuania. The cherry trees symbolize dignity, nobility, and renewal, while the Japanese rowan trees represent inner beauty, privacy, peace, and refuge. Together, they create a living cycle of the seasons: cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and in autumn the garden is painted in spectacular colors.

Each tree in the garden carries its own symbolic meaning and dedication to the university and the people who contributed to its creation. Patrons are commemorated on a special memorial plaque.

To help us plan the event smoothly, you are kindly invited to register here by April 20.