After a long winter, the first sight of pink cherry blossoms is a powerful lift to the spirit. For me, that joy is readily available, as some of the most spectacular blooms on the East Coast appear at Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey. More than 5,000 trees transform the landscape into a cotton-candy dream for a fleeting week each April, erasing all memory of the cold months past.
The allure of these blossoms extends far beyond personal enjoyment. In Japan, the sakura, or cherry blossom, symbolizes new beginnings. The tradition of *hanami* – cherry blossom viewing – is a deeply revered celebration of spring’s arrival. Families and friends gather for days, sharing picnics and festivities under the delicate pink canopy, embracing the promise of renewal.
While Japan is synonymous with *hanami*, the beauty of flowering cherry trees can be found worldwide. Venturing abroad offers a unique opportunity to witness how different cultures honor the ephemeral nature of spring. From Europe to Asia, a floral pilgrimage reveals a world of vibrant traditions and breathtaking displays.
Taipei, Taiwan, offers an early start to the blossom season. The city’s *ying hua* begin to bloom in late January, continuing into March. Yangmingshan National Park, famous for its floral clock, becomes a hillside of rosy hues, accessible through scenic walking trails.
Tokyo, steeped in 1,200 years of *hanami* tradition, fully embraces the arrival of sakura. The entire city comes alive with picnics, special menus, and festive events. Ueno Park, with its thousand flowering trees, and Chidorigafuchi Park, with its stunning canal lined with blooms, are prime viewing locations.
Kyoto, a cultural heartland, presents a serene backdrop for cherry blossom viewing. Amongst the city’s 2,000 temples and shrines, the blossoms imbue ancient traditions with a sense of history. The Philosopher’s Path, winding along cherry tree-lined canals, offers a particularly peaceful experience.
Stockholm welcomes spring with “friluftsliv,” or “fresh air living.” When the pink wave arrives in mid-April, the city celebrates at Kungstradgarden, the “King’s Garden,” with alfresco coffee breaks under the blossoms and cultural events like Cherry Blossom Day.
Copenhagen’s Langelinie Park bursts into pink in April, thanks to 200 cherry trees gifted by Japan. The annual Copenhagen Sakura Festival features traditional tea ceremonies, martial arts demonstrations, and musical performances.
Seoul, South Korea, offers a spectacular display at Yeouido Hangang Park, often less crowded than Tokyo’s famous spots. The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the largest in the country, features parades and enchanting night lantern displays.
Jeju Island, also in South Korea, is known for its unique king cherry blossoms, fluffier and deeper pink than their Japanese counterparts. Halla Arboretum and Jeonnong-ro road transform into tunnels of blossoms during the late March to early April bloom.
Paris, always a captivating destination, becomes even more enchanting in late March and early April. Cherry blossoms appear near the Louvre, along the Champ de Mars, and in the gardens of Notre Dame, offering picturesque moments throughout the city.
Amsterdam’s Kersenbloesempark (Cherry Blossom Park) offers a unique and feminist touch. The park’s 400 trees, a gift from the Japanese Women’s Club, are each named after a woman, celebrating their contributions.
The Jerte Valley in Spain presents an unparalleled spectacle: over 2 million cherry trees blanketing the landscape in a sea of white and pink. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the blooms with marketplaces, fairs, and cultural events.
Vancouver, British Columbia, boasts over 43,000 cherry trees, many originating from Japan. The extended blooming period, from March to May, ensures a vibrant display throughout the spring months.
Finally, Victoria, British Columbia, enjoys Canada’s mildest climate, resulting in an extended and impressive cherry blossom season. View Street is a prime location to witness the first burst of pink hues, signaling the arrival of spring.
