In 1896, Charlotte Salwey wrote in Japanese Monographs: “A sea of fragrant white foam bursts like a great tidal wave over the land of the gods in the early days of spring. It is the beauty and breath of the cherry flowers set free from the embrace of the dark-brown boughs, that have rocked them so persistently into life, through the long night of winter’s silence.”
For centuries we have gathered to view the cherry blossoms in spring. IgoUgo reaches back into the archives to bring you their beauty as seen through the eyes of our members.
Washington, D.C.: Of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Idler wrote: “Cherry blossoms are the emblems of Washington, DC (along with the monuments), and the festival attracts over a million visitors each year.”
Photo by Idler
Brooklyn: Ripplefan2 enjoyed a day at the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden where he observed workshops, dance performances, ice sculptures, a drum ensemble and more.
“With hundreds of people dressed in traditional Asian influenced dresses and the giant tent in the center offering different workshops and shows, the day was really coming together.”
Photo by oldscratch
Tokyo: This year in Ueno Park, residents and visitors gathered quietly to observe “Hanami” (picnicking under the blooms). Member AgedToPerfection’s 2006 review said of the park: “The cherry blossoms will overwhelm even the most jaded visitor.”
Photo by Composthp
If by chance, you misjudge the start of the season, take heart. According to Dutchnatasja, blossoms that are over their peak; “they colored more pink. So don’t be afraid if you missed the blooming peak. The cherry blossoms are great during their process of the beginning, the highlight and the end of the blooming peak.”
More Photos of These Cities
Photos of Washington, D.C.
Photos of New York City
Photos of Tokyo
Posted by Nik’sMom (Terre Grilli)