Itâs Cherry Blossom Season all over the World!
When picturing âcherry blossoms,â you might immediately think of Japan, a country to whom the small flower holds a great deal of tradition, symbolism, and special meaning. Indeed, Tokyoâs Ueno Park, home to over one thousand cherry blossom trees, hosts hundreds of people each day during Sakura season, from March to April every year. And while Sakura season is Japanâs busiest tourist season of the year, as people travel from all around the world to experience the hustle and fuss made over this little flower, you may not know that Japan is not the only country to celebrate Cherry Blossom season. The following are the top five cities outside of Japan to experience Sakura festivities.
5. Champs de MarsâParis, France
The Champs de Mars is a large public greenery or park located in the heart of Paris. Lying just between the Eiffle Tower and the Ăcole Militaire, the Champ de Mars is home to hundreds of cherry blossoms. With the pink, snowy petals fluttering in front of the Parisian backdrop, it is hard to find a more picturesque or romantic scene.
4. KirschblĂźtenfestâHamburg, Germany
The largest Sakura festival in Germany takes place in Hamburg each year, and they pull out all the stops. Hosting a Japanese culture day, electing a âSakura Princess,â and ending the night with a spectacular fireworks display, KirschblĂźtenfest really captures the festivities and celebration of the Sakura season.
3. Vancouver Cherry Blossom FestivalâVancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is home to over 130,000 cherry blossom trees, and that population was started as a gift from the Japanese consul. To celebrate the gift and token of friendship, Vancouver has a Cherry Blossom festival each year. This festival is attended by thousands of people who come to enjoy music, dance, competition, and food all related to Sakura and Japanese culture.
2. Jinhae Gunhangje FestivalâChangwon, KoreaÂ
This military port town, home to over 350,000 cherry blossom trees, plays host to an annual ten day celebration of Spring and Korean pride. Coinciding with a celebration for Korean military achievements, this festival is also known as the Military Parade, and features the military orchestra that plays in the streets. Thousands of tourists travel to Changwon from April 1st -10thto participate in the festivities, which include food vendors, street performers, and fireworks.Â
1. National Cherry Blossom FestivalâWashington, DC
In 1912, Japan gave Washington, DC 3,000 cherry blossom trees to replace the 2,000 that had been gifted two years prior, but had succumbed to disease. The new trees survived and flourished, and every year the USAâs capitol plays host to a Japanese Cherry Blossom festival that includes fireworks, a kite festival, and a parade.
Happy Spring, and Happy filming!