From March to April, you can catch a glance of the beautiful yet fleeting cherry blossoms. Known as “Sakura” in Japan, these delicate pink flowers can be viewed throughout the region, but only for a short period of time. Once they bloom they can be viewed for about two weeks. Every season, people flock to streets, parks and festivals to catch a glimpse. Dating back centuries the origin can be traced to before feudal Japan, with folklore
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HORIZONS DECEMBER 2021
stories of cherry blossom trees signifying rebirth and agricultural reproduction. Travelers would worship these trees and plant them across Japan. The Sakura season is widely celebrated in Japanese culture being tied to beauty, mortality, renewal and rebirth. Visit some of these festivals taking place close by and partake in traditions that have been celebrated for generations.
