Sakura, or cherry blossoms in Japan, hold deep cultural and historical significance. They have been venerated in poetry, art and festivals for centuries. Hanami or flower viewing dates back to the Heian era (794 to 1185), when people sat beneath the flowering trees to admire their beauty and contemplate the transient nature of life.
In Japan sakura or cherry blossoms talk about the transience of life because it has a short blooming season that lasts only about one to two weeks. This philosophy has been co-opted by the Buddhist monoaware doctrine, which teaches that the transient moment should be savored. Indigenous people such as Koreans or Chinese, and Americans have their own tradition and significance of cherry blossom.
World’s Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Locations
So if you want to see the natural beauty of cherry blossoms here are a few of them:
- Japan: The Dream Cherry Blossom Country
- Tokyo: Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen are places to see beautiful cherry blossoms with traditional tea houses.
- Kyoto: Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path are picturesque landscapes for hits of snapshots.
- Osaka: Over 3000 cherry trees line the Osaka Castle Park, creating an enchanted picture-perfect spring backdrop.
- Hokkaido: Late bloomers can experience the cherry blossoms in Hokkaido from late April to early May, offering a rare northern experience.
Washington D.C. USA
Washington D.C. National Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of the donation of cherry trees from Japan in 1912. The Tidal Basin is the perfect place to view the blossoms along with the nation’s memorials.
South Korea
- Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival: The largest cherry blossom festival in the whole of Korea, it brings thousands of tourists every spring.
- Seoul: Yeouido Park and Namsan Park are two spots in the capital city that offer superb cherry blossom views.
Europe
Paris (France): If you want to witness one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in France, then head to Parc de Sceaux.
- Things to Do in London: Visit Kew Gardens and Greenwich Park during spring
- Germany: The cherry blossom tunnels of Bonn create a striking pink canopy.
- Cherry Blossom Beauty: Beijing, Yuyuantan Park and Wuhan University
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When Is the Best Cherry Blossom Season?
The best time for blooming of the cherry blossoms varies by place and region. As a rule, here’s the general guideline:
- Japan and Korea: Late March to early April
- Mar Late to Apr Apr: Washington D.C.
- Europe: Early to mid-Apr
- China: Mar to early Apr
To get a glimpse of their prime check out cherry blossom forecasts and plan your visit accordingly.
How to make the most of cherry blossom season
Here are a few tips to make that experience the best while watching cherry blossoms:
- Get There Early
Note: Cherry blossom viewing spots can get crowded, especially at peak bloom. Getting there early in the morning means that you have fewer people obstructing the views to enjoy and take fantastic photographs in the soft morning light.
- Bring a Picnic
The most authentic way to experience hanami is to picnic under the trees. Bring a blanket, snacks and traditional snacks like mochi or sushi to make it an even more enjoyable experience.
- Respect Nature
When you are walking, do not pick the flowers; don’t damage the trees. Stay on established trails and pack out what you packed in to help keep the place beautiful for other visitors.
- Check the Weather
Cherry blossoms are only around for a short period of time and heavy winds or rain can send them flying away in no time. Check out the weather forecast so you can pick the best day to go.
- Join Local Festivals
Cherry blossom festivals typically involve traditional performances and parades and food stalls in many places. Doing these activities will enhance your experience.
- Capture the Moment
Pack the best crop top or smartphone for beautiful clicks. Use different angles or lighting when completing it and take stylish photos. To receive the best natural light you can work with is at dawn or sunset.
Try Sakura-Inspired Treats
A number of bakeries and coffee shops offer limited-time, cherry blossom-themed goods such as sakura mochi sakura lattes and cherry blossom-flavored ice cream. That makes the experience even tastier; seasonal treats help.
- Cherry Blossoms: The Science of the Beautiful, Short-Lived Flower Cherry blossoms belong to the Prunus genus, and their flowering is influenced by temperature, daylight and rain.
- Budding Stage: Little green buds are seen as trees ready to blossom.
- Stage of Blooming: Flowers are starting to open in a few days; they will be in full bloom.
- Scattering Stage: A week or so after blooming, the petals start to fall and create a scene that looks like “sakura rain.”
Parts of the world now see cherry blossoms bloom earlier due to the impacts of climate change. Researchers study these changes to understand changes in the environment and how the changes affect plants.
Did You Know About These Facts Of Cherry Blossoms
- Jindai Zakura, the oldest recorded cherry tree in Japan, is over 2000 years old.
- Some cherry blossom species flower in autumn rather than spring.
- Japan has over 200 varieties of cherry trees with their characteristics.
- Cherry blossom petals are pink but may vary depending on species and conditions.
- Cherry blossom petals are edible and are eaten in Japanese sweets and tea.
In Japan sakura flavored goods and souvenirs flood the market each spring, from cosmetics to drinks. As such, numerous brands have launched seasonal collections in sakura-beautiful pink, further influencing fashion trends.
Conclusion
Cherry blossoms aren’t just beautiful flowers; they have deep cultural, historical and environmental significance. Whether you encounter them in Japan, Washington D.C Korea or Europe their ephemeral beauty is a chastising reminder to live in the moment. Sharon Waugh is a travel writer and author of travel-related books including But Not the Hippopotamus, Dance with Clarinet and The Last Game.
For more travel guides and seasonal recommendations, visit: Best Today News
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