Right now, this week is one of the best times to view the famous cherry blossoms of Japan. "Sakura" is the Japanese name for cherry trees (Prunus serrulata). Flowering viewing is popular in Japan, and parks care crowded with families having parties under the trees. Hanami festivals celebrate the beauty of the sakura.
Some Japanese people travel around the country to see specific famous cherry trees. The “Garyuzakura” cherry tree (Ichinomiya-cho, Gifu) is reputed to be over one thousand years old.
By the time I arrive in Tokyo in June, the flowering season will have long passed. Since I love trees (especially bonsai!) I guess I'll have to visit Japan sometime when our spring break coincides with the cherry blossom season.
Be the first: Can you tell me which US city is famous for its cherry trees which were originally imported from Japan and planted in 1910? Does this American city have a cherry blossom festival?
If you want to learn more about the cherry blossom season in Japan, here are a couple of web sites:
http://www.japantravelinfo.com/features/features_item.php?featuresid=9
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/seasonal/sakura2008/
Friday, April 11, 2008
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