Cherry blossoms are the national flowers of Japan – also known as ‘sakura’ in Japanese. These flowers are symbolic and traditional in the culture of Japan. Here are the best places to see cherry blossoms blooming in the spring season –
1. Washington D.C
Washington D.C is one of the most popular places to see cherry blossoms during the spring time. The places in Washington D.C where you can view beautiful blooms are as follows :
The Tidal Basin- The Tidal Basin located near the Jefferson Memorial has a great display of cherry blossoms every year during the springs time. There are over 3,000 cherry blossom trees that were once sent out to the United States by Japan in the year 1912. Make sure you arrive early as it becomes crowded very soon.
Potomac River- The Potomac River is a good location too and is also less crowded as compared to Tidal Basin. Boat owners can bring their own boats. You can even find many Washington River cruises that offer a special cherry blossom cruise during this time of the year. You will find more information here: http://www.potomacriverboatco.com/
Hains Point- The Hains Point on East Potomac Park is over 300 acres peninsula located between the Washington Channel and the Potomac River towards the south side of the Tidal Basin. It is famous for its terrific views of the cherry blossom trees. The parking is limited in the park, so consider taking public transport to reach this place.
National Arboretum- The National Arboretum in northeast Washington also offers over 75 different cherry trees which are well known for its beautiful azalea and rhododendron displays.
2. Macon, Georgia
Macon in Georgia called themselves as “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World.” It offers over 300,000 Yoshino cherry trees. Every year they held a 10-day International Cherry Blossom Festival.
3. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is all painted pink in April. Popular spots to see cherry blossoms are:
Mount Namsan– The streets in Mount Namsan look beautiful when it is lined with beautiful pink Cherry blossom trees.
Children’s Grand Park– It offers over 1,000 cherry blossom trees that literally light up at night.
Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival– The festival happens every year in April. Huge numbers of people gather here to enjoy this week-long festival. This year it falls on April 12 -18 (2013). You will get the best view of cherry blossoms near the National Assembly Building. Apart from the blossoms, there is a small firework show during the night.
Cheongpunghoban Cherry Blossom Festival– The Cheongpunghoban festival takes place on the Cheongpungho Lake all along the roadside which offers a great view of cherry blossoms during the month of April. This year’s dates are from April 19-21st (2013). They conduct various other shows and concerts apart from the blossoms at the venue.
4. San Francisco, USA
After D.C San Francisco’s Japantown Cherry Blossoms are the most popular in the United States and also the second largest cherry blossom in the United States after D.C. A huge number of people gather here to witness the beautiful view of the cherry trees. Apart from the amazing view, there are food booths, Parade, cultural performances, martial arts, and much more.
5. Japan
Here are some of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan –
Matsumae – The Island of Hokkaido which is popularly known for its 17th century Matsume Castle also offers over 10,000 sakura trees with 250 different varieties of cherry trees.
Kanazawa – Located in northwest Tokyo, Kanazawa City offers a great view of cherry blossoms in mid-April. It is a beautiful modern city with many attractions like Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen. Kenrokuen is a beautiful garden that offers a beautiful view of cherry blossoms in late April.