Cherry Blossom, Washington, D.C. Photo: iStock
Here’s a complete guide on where to see sakura in full bloom
Spring is a magical season when nature awakens from its winter slumber and bursts into vibrant colors. One of the most mesmerizing spectacles of spring is the blooming of cherry blossom trees. These delightful trees, which originated in Japan, have now become a global sensation, with millions of people traveling far and wide to witness their beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned cherry blossom enthusiast or just looking for a new adventure, this guide will take you on a journey to some of the most breathtaking cherry blossom destinations around the world. From the enchanting cherry blossom gardens in Japan to the picturesque cherry blossom-lined streets in Washington, D.C., we’ll show you the best places to soak up the springtime splendor. So, grab your camera and get ready to be swept away by the stunning beauty of cherry blossoms!
History and significance of cherry blossoms
Cherry blossoms, also known as sakura, are a symbol of renewal, hope, and beauty in Japanese culture. The cherry blossom season is a time for celebration, as it marks the beginning of spring and the new school year. The tradition of hanami, or flower viewing, dates back to the 8th century, when the aristocracy would gather under cherry blossom trees to drink and write poetry. Today, hanami is a national pastime in Japan, with people of all ages enjoying picnics, parties, and strolls under the cherry blossom trees.
Cherry blossoms have also become popular around the world, with many countries planting cherry blossom trees in public parks and gardens. In the United States, the first cherry blossom trees were gifted to Washington, D.C. by the mayor of Tokyo in 1912. These trees have since become a symbol of the friendship between the United States and Japan and are celebrated every year during the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
Best Places For Cherry Blossom Viewing In Japan
Japan is home to some of the most beautiful cherry blossom destinations in the world. From the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, there are plenty of places to experience the magic of cherry blossoms. Here are some of the best places to visit:
Kyoto
Kyoto is a city steeped in tradition and history, with over 1,600 temples and shrines. During cherry blossom season, the city comes alive with pink and white blooms. Some of the best places to view cherry blossoms in Kyoto are the Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Tokyo
Tokyo is a vibrant and modern city with plenty of cherry blossom viewing spots. Some of the most popular places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo are Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Chidorigafuchi Park. You can also take a stroll along the Meguro River, where over 800 cherry blossom trees are illuminated at night.
Mount Yoshino
Mount Yoshino is a mountain in Nara Prefecture that is famous for its cherry blossom trees. There are over 30,000 cherry blossom trees on the mountain, making it one of the most spectacular cherry blossom destinations in Japan. The best time to visit is in early April, when the trees are in full bloom.
Best Places For Cherry Blossom Viewing In The United States
The United States is home to several beautiful cherry blossom destinations, thanks in part to the gift of cherry blossom trees from Japan in 1912. Here are some of the best places to view cherry blossoms in the United States:
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the cherry blossom capital of the United States, with over 3,000 cherry blossom trees lining the Tidal Basin. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year in March or April and includes parades, concerts, and cultural events.
Must Read: 48 Hours in Washington D.C. | Travel and Food Guide
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City is home to over 200 cherry blossom trees, including the famous Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. The garden hosts a cherry blossom festival every year in late April or early May.
Also Read: 72 Hours in New York City | Travel & Food Guide
Portland Japanese Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden in Oregon is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden features several cherry blossom trees, including the Shirofugen and the Kwanzan. The best time to visit is in late March or early April.
Best Places for Cherry Blossom Viewing In Europe
While cherry blossom trees are not native to Europe, there are several places where you can experience their beauty. Here are some of the best places to view cherry blossoms in Europe:
Bonn, Germany
Bonn is home to the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in Germany, with over 5,000 trees. The cherry blossom season in Bonn usually begins in mid-April and lasts for about two weeks.
Kew Gardens, London
Kew Gardens in London is a botanical garden that is home to several cherry blossom trees, including the Sargent Cherry and the Higan Cherry. The best time to visit is in late March or early April.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is home to several cherry blossom trees, including the Yoshino Cherry and the Shirofugen Cherry. The best time to visit is in late April or early May.
Cherry Blossom Festivals Around the World
Cherry blossom festivals are held around the world to celebrate the beauty of cherry blossom trees. Here are some of the most popular cherry blossom festivals:
National Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington DC
The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC is the largest cherry blossom festival in the United States. The festival includes parades, concerts, and cultural events and attracts over 1.5 million visitors every year.
Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, Canada
The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival in Canada is a month-long celebration of cherry blossoms. The festival includes concerts, art exhibits, and guided walks and bike rides.
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Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, South Korea
The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival in South Korea is one of the largest cherry blossom festivals in the world. The festival includes parades, fireworks, and cultural events and attracts over 2 million visitors every year.
Photography Tips For Capturing Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms are a popular subject for photographers, but capturing their beauty can be tricky. Here are some tips for getting the perfect shot:
- Use a tripod to keep your camera steady.
- Shoot in early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
- Use a shallow depth of field to create a blurry background.
- Look for interesting angles and compositions.
- Experiment with different lenses and filters.
Cherry Blossom-Inspired Recipes and Froducts
Cherry blossoms have inspired many culinary creations and products. Here are some cherry blossom-inspired recipes and products to try:
Sakura Mochi
Sakura mochi is a traditional Japanese dessert made with glutinous rice and cherry blossom leaves. The leaves give the mochi a pink color and a subtle cherry blossom flavor.
Sakura Tea
Sakura tea is a Japanese tea made by infusing cherry blossom petals in hot water. The tea has a delicate floral flavor and a pink color.
Cherry Blossom Soap
Cherry blossom soap is a popular skincare product that is made with cherry blossom extract. The soap has a subtle cherry blossom scent and is gentle on the skin.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Etiquette
When viewing cherry blossoms, it’s important to be respectful of the trees and the people around you. Here are some tips for cherry blossom viewing etiquette:
- Don’t climb or shake the trees.
- Don’t pick the flowers or break branches.
- Don’t litter or damage the surrounding area.
- Be considerate of other visitors and their experience.
- Follow any rules or regulations set by the park or garden.
Cherry blossoms are a beautiful reminder of the renewal and hope that spring brings. Whether you’re traveling to Japan, the United States, or Europe, there are plenty of places to experience the magic of cherry blossoms. From festivals and gardens to tea and soap, cherry blossoms have inspired people around the world in many ways. So, take some time this spring to appreciate the beauty of cherry blossom trees and all that they represent.
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