By Stefanie Michaels
You’ve seen those Instagram photos of stunning Cherry blossom trees blooming in various hues of white, pinks and lavender. People flock each season to see them as this symbol of renewal means the start of spring.
Not to mention that they are incredibly beautiful and delicate in nature, and seeing them in bloom can be a truly breathtaking experience.
Most famous are the Cherry blossom festivals, also known as hanami festivals, which are held annually in Japan and other countries with cherry blossom trees.
In Japan, the cherry blossom season typically takes place in late March or early April, depending on each area’s weather. Exact timing can be tricky and can vary in each location.
In the US, Cherry blossom festivals are often held in March or April as well, syncing with the blooming of the cherry blossom trees in Washington, D.C. and other cities with trees.
Here are some festivals to check out.
- The cherry blossom festival at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada: A variety of events and activities, including hanami parties, traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, and cultural performances makes this one of the best places to experience it all. The cherry blossom trees at UBC are extra special because they were a gift from Japan in the 1930’s and have become a symbol of the strong friendship between the two countries.
- The cherry blossom festival in Woogang Park in Gyeongju, South Korea: This festival is held every April and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. The cherry blossom trees in Woogang Park are particularly special because they are surrounded by the ancient tombs of the Silla Kingdom, which adds a unique cultural and historical element.
- The cherry blossom festival in Jinhae, South Korea: Each April, this event is known for its stunning display of cherry blossoms along the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival Road. The cherry blossom trees in Jinhae boast nearby historical and cultural attractions, including the Jinhae Naval Port and the Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Road.
- The cherry blossom festival in Hirosaki Castle, Japan: Hirosaki Castle is a beautiful and historic attraction in itself, and the cherry blossom trees add even more beauty and charm to the experience. Held every April, it features over 2,600 cherry blossom trees in the castle grounds.
Other places to view Cherry Blossoms around the globe.
- High Park in Toronto, Canada
- Tidal Basin in Washington D.C., USA
- Mount Takao in Tokyo, Japan
- Jeju Island in South Korea
- The Gardens of the World in Berlin, Germany
- The cherry blossom festival in Macon, Georgia, USA
- The cherry blossom trees in Vancouver, Canada
- The cherry blossom festival in Amsterdam, Netherlands
- The cherry blossom festival in Buenos Aires, Argentina
- The cherry blossom festival in Adelaide, Australia
