Austria's cultural partnership: Schönbrunn meets Himeji in Osaka!

Austria's cultural partnership: Schönbrunn meets Himeji in Osaka!

The Schönbrunn Group recently strengthened its partnership with Japan's Himeji Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This momentous event took place as part of Austria Day at Expo 2025 in Osaka, celebrated on May 23, 2025. Representatives of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism and the Schönbrunn Group set an example for international cooperation and cultural exchange. Loud Leadersnet Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and Federal Minister Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer were among those present, who underlined the importance of this initiative.

Austria has been represented at the Expo since April 13, 2025 with a pavilion under the motto “Composing the future”. The partnership between Schönbrunn Palace and Himeji will focus on cultural education, joint projects and sustainable tourism. The aim is to preserve cultural heritage for future generations and to use innovative technologies to support this mission.

Cultural education and tourism in focus

Klaus Panholzer, CEO of the Schönbrunn Group, emphasized the positive influence of the exchange of experts on both world heritage sites. Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer sees this partnership as an important impetus for Austria's strategic positioning in global cultural tourism. Alexander Palma, Head of the Cultural Heritage Section, emphasized the importance of the agreement for cultural exchange and relations between Austria and Japan.

Schönbrunn Palace itself, a popular excursion destination, offers much more than just its impressive architecture. The garden follows the principles of baroque horticulture and was closely linked to the palace architecture. The Great Parterre in particular, redesigned as part of the expansion of Schönbrunner Berg, is a particularly impressive part of the garden.

Historical elements of the garden

The garden is home to numerous statues, including mythological and historical figures such as Rhea Cybele, Alexander and Olympias, and Hercules. These were made by renowned artists such as Christian Wilhelm Beyer and Johann Baptist Hagenauer. The monument to Philipp Franz Siebold and the bronze bust that Maria Theresa commissioned in 1766 underline the historical significance of the castle and its gardens.

In addition, the extensive garden design, which was created under Maria Theresa in the 1770s, contributes to the uniqueness of the property. The Neptune Fountain, the Angels' Fountain and the Roman Ruins are just a few of the many attractions that attract visitors. The Schönbrunn Panorama Railway allows guests to explore the diverse sights of the 160-hectare world cultural heritage site.

In addition to the admired garden, Schönbrunn Palace offers a variety of cultural events, including performances in the puppet theater and concerts by the Schönbrunn Orchestra in the Orangery. Gourmets can enjoy a selection of food and drinks in various restaurants and cafés in the castle park. Loud Schoenbrunn.at The Lindt Boutique with its chocolate specialties and coffee creations is also a popular attraction.

Overall, the new partnership between Schönbrunn Palace and Himeji not only represents a symbolic step towards international cultural exchange, but also contributes to the joint preservation and promotion of cultural heritage between the two countries.