Cherry Blossoms trees are one of Japan’s most celebrated and beautiful plant. These trees were first spotted in Eurasia somewhere in the Himalayas (Scholars speculate). Thousands of years ago, Cherry Blossom trees were brought to japan and it “spread throughout the country before the prehistoric age”. There are over 300 types of Cherry Blossom trees- also known as Sakura- in Japan.
During the Heian Period celebrating the Cherry Blossoms tree became popular. Emperors and members of the elite class began hosting feasts and panics under the blooming Sakura tree. It was celebrated by all classes and it became a very important feast/parties for all class members of Japanese society. Centuries late and the cherry blossom tree is still being celebrated. The sacredness of the tradition has stayed. However, where the celebration takes place have changed drastically. All over the world, people gather in numerous places like San Francisco, Brooklyn and Washington D.C to celebrating the blooming of the Cherry blossom.
The Sakura celebrations are extremely important to Japan. “Each year, the blossom forecast is analyzed, predicted and released to the public by the Japan Meteorological Agency.” Sakura holds a major Buddhist meaning. It represents the transience of life. Cherry blossom trees are known for its short life and its vibrant colors. Metaphorically it is a representation of human life.
Interesting Fact: “In 1912, Japan gave more than 3,000 cherry-blossom trees to the United States as a gift to honor the growing bond between the two countries. Now, the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., commemorates this century-old offering of goodwill when the trees bloom each spring.”
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