Five things you didn’t know about Dusseldorf

1. There is a large Japanese population in Dusseldorf, owing to the fact that Japan tapped into the city’s steel industry in an effort to rebuild itself after World War II. As a result, there are lots of sakura trees. And each July, pyrotechnicians from Japan are brought in for a huge Japanese festival.

2. All around the city, you will see life-sized sculptures of ordinary people standing tall on pedestals. They are known as the Pillar Saints, a 2001 project by local artist Christoph Poggeler. There are nine sculptures in total. See if you can find The Photographer, The Bride and The Tourist, among others.

3. “Konigsallee”, the name of the poshest thoroughfare in Dusseldorf, means “King’s avenue”. It used to be called Chestnut Avenue because it was lined with chestnut trees – until horse manure was thrown at King Friedrich Wilhelm IV in 1848. Its name was then changed in an effort to placate the monarch.

4. In contrast to the upscale Konigsallee, the street of Kiefernstrasse is known for its alternative culture. It boasts colourful, elaborate wall murals that cover entire buildings, including a crossword-puzzle house.

5. In the Altstadt (Old City) you will find St Lambertus Basilica, which looks whimsically distinctive because of its twisted tower. It was built in the 13th century. Legend has it that when a bride lied about her virginity at the altar, the tower either turned away in shame or was twisted by the hand of the devil himself. They also say that when a real virgin is married in the church, the tower will straighten. Nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more.

Singapore Airlines now flies directly to Dusseldorf three times a week.