Sakura
Japanese Name:
桜の花
Romaji Name:
sakuranohana
Description
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A cherry blossom is the flower of the cherry tree, known for its beautiful pink or white petals. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring and are a symbol of beauty and the fleeting nature of life in Japan. People enjoy hanami, the custom of viewing and celebrating cherry blossoms, often having picnics under the blooming trees.
History
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Cherry blossoms have been celebrated in Japan for over a thousand years. The tradition of hanami (flower viewing) began during the Heian period (794–1185), when the Japanese imperial court would gather to enjoy the beauty of the blossoms, write poetry, and hold feasts under the blooming trees.
Originally, plum blossoms (ume) were more popular, but over time, sakura took center stage as a symbol of fleeting beauty and the impermanence of life — a concept deeply rooted in Buddhism.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), cherry blossom viewing became popular among the general public, and many varieties of sakura were cultivated throughout Japan.
Today, cherry blossoms are not only a cultural icon in Japan but also a symbol of friendship between nations. For example, in 1912, Japan gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the United States, which were planted in Washington, D.C. This gift helped establish the now-famous National Cherry Blossom Festival.