Sakura -Cherry Blossom Japan , a Symbol of Renewal and Hope

Blush pink candy floss trees stand to greet you as you stroll through Japan during spring transporting you to a fairy land. It’s the time for Cherry Blossom or Sakura

Spring in Japan is every photographer’s, artistes or for that matter every one’s dream. The images clicked during Cherry Blossom look like postcard images. Seems too good to be true? But once you land in Japan, you will realise that it is real.  Cherry Blossom known as Sakura in Japanese is as much a visual delight as it is a treat to your other senses. The sweet fragrance of the cherry blossom makes it the Top selling perfume in the USA. While many of you might have seen the cherry blossoms in pictures, songs and movies; nothing really prepares you for the absolute beauty.

But it is not only the trees or flowers that make it so special. The entire frame with couples happily laughing, families picnicking, steam blowing out of tea cups is too picturesque too miss. The Japanese have even given a separate word for viewing and picnicking near the Sakura, called ‘Hanami’. Everyone in Japan has their own personal favourite Hanami spot where they spend their pink spring days at. It is believed that the tradition had started with the members of Royal family

In fact the late night picnics are more happening. These late-night picnics are known as “Yozakura,” and the Japanese hang paper lanterns in cherry blossom trees to illuminate them. Quite a sight to visualise !

While the world gasps and clicks numerous pictures, the Japanese have understood the true essence of capturing the beauty. They do so by simply doing nothing. Most Japanese come to sit under the cherry blossoms with no aim in mind. They sit under the trees and just chill.

But the cherry blossoms are not just restricted to admiration of their beauty. Each part of Sakura is put to use. The preserved leaves are used as edible mochi wrappers (a rice cake filled with sweet bean paste), snacks and even chocolates. Sakura-infused versions of Pepsi, Coke, tea, and even Starbucks lattes are all popular drinks. Don’t forget to try the Cherry Blossom flavoured ice cream in Japan.  You can also buy personal care products like perfumes, body creams, soaps to carry the cherry blossom scent long after they are gone.

A cherry tree is also symbolic. It reminds us how everything beautiful is temporary like life itself. Everyone longs for the trees to bloom but the locals are also aware that this beauty is temporary , just like life.  The blooms will soon die but only to bloom again a year later, more beautiful and charming than ever.

Sakura , the beauty , the lessons of life and the new beginning…