Lack of cherry blossoms push further exploration into UI Arboretum

not yet visited the Japan House, but is aware of the blossoms’ popularity.

“It’s a little sad because I feel like there was a lot of hype around (the blossoms) and it’s beautiful to do picnics there, but because of the blossoms not really being prominent, it’s hard to get those really aesthetic pictures that you want,” Prakash said.

Prakash is still planning to go see the sakura and experience the gardens the Japan House has to offer. Despite the lack of blooms, Japan House’s sensei Kimiko Gunji said the trees were experiencing hazakura, or 葉桜 in Japanese. Hazakura refers to the cherry tree leaves. It is a sign that summer is on its way as small leaves appear after the flower blossom has fallen.

The last Sakura watch update addressed the trees’ small number of blooms and brought attention to a more positive light. Japan House officials are still happy to see leaves on the tree.

Others seem to share the positive outlook about the unusual cherry blossom season.

Angus Lanker, a visitor at the University of Illinois Arboretum, frequents the gardens and said he enjoyed exploring the area.

Cherry blossoms are not the only specialty located in the gardens. There are two different gardens, the Tea Garden and the Dry Garden. Each garden has individual characteristics to make them unique.

Both gardens can be used to meditate and provide a calming atmosphere for all visitors, making them a popular destination, according to the Japan House website.

Gecheng Zheng, freshman in LAS, appreciates the gardens in their entirety.

“I just went around the gardens and they were beautiful,” Zheng said. “I think it was one of the nicest parts on campus.” fedczuk2@dailyillni.com lmsalas2@dailyillini.com

By Piotr Fedczuk and Lillie Salas Managing Editor for Reporting and Features Editor

Skies filled with pinks, reds and may not have been met by the beloved blossoms.

Sakura on campus have been affected by the turbulent Midwest weather and will not have as abundant blooms as previous years, according to the Japan House’s Instagram.

The Japan House is a space for anyone to learn about Japanese culture and arts, according to the Japan House’s website.

The House is home to various gardens and has opportunities for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and educational events.

The Sakura Watch is a series of updates and announcements by the Japan House about the state of sakura blossoms. The 2023 Sakura Watch wrapped up April 14 with an update about the rest of the blooming season.

Rhea Prakash, freshman in LAS, has

“It’s a nice bonus to see the cherry blossoms, but I come either way,” Lanker said. “So, that’s icing on the cake. It would be nice if (the cherry blossoms) were blooming, but I guess the flip side is it’s a little less crowded.”

The Arboretum is a living laboratory, according to the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences’ website, and hosts a variety of gardens. It is well known for its immense biodiversity and impressive aesthetic that draws in students, community members and visitors of Champaign-Urbana alike.

The gardens are accessible and free of charge for any interested individuals.