Thursday, February 23, 2012

Spring Flower Series: Cherry Blossom, Japan

Spring brings crisp air, emerging greenery and Cherry Blossoms in Japan. Cherry Blossoms, “Sakura” is the national flower of Japan and is held in reverence throughout Japan. A great many festivals are held to honor and celebrate the beauty of the cherry blossom. Cherry Blossom begins to bloom from the southern island of Kyushu in late March and moves northward blooming in early May in Hokkaido. 

Takada Park in Joetsu city, is  well known for night time viewing of cherry blossoms. Takada Castle which is on the grounds is lit by over 3000 lanterns hanging from 4000 cherry trees. This illuminates the park and provides a festive mood for park goers. The moat surrounding the castle reflects the light of Takada castle and the lanterns creating a mystical atmosphere.  During the day visitors are able to walk down Sakura Road, which is a narrow path, lined with cherry blossom trees on both sides.

Himeji Castle is well known as one of the 3 most famous castles in Japan. It is also a favorite of cherry blossom watchers. It hosts the Himeji Castle cherry blossom viewing Fair which features music performances.  With over 1000 sakura trees on the grounds, it is a very popular spot in Japan for viewing.

Hirosaki Park is built on the grounds of Hirosaki Castle in Hirosaki. With over 2600 cherry blossom trees, it is touted as the best spot to view cherry blossoms in the Tohoku region. The cherry blossoms are set against the white walls of the castle and the pine trees. Over a million people annually visit Hirosaki Park during this time which usually runs from late April to early May which coincides with Golden Week in Japan.

The viewing of cherry blossoms in Japan is more than just an appreciation of their beauty.  Festivals can be found throughout Japan due to the “sakuras” stature as the national flower. It is a time to enjoy good sake, good food, family and the beauty of spring.  You will be in awe by the Cherry Blossom.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100

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