The Significance of Cherry Blossoms in Japanese Art & Culture
Every year, villages, towns, and cities across Japan warmly welcome spring with waves of cherry blossoms. As the national flower of Japan (alongside the chrysanthemum and the iris), the cherry blossom—or sakura—holds a special place in Japanese culture. For centuries, people have flocked to see the flora in full bloom, attending entire festivals dedicated to hanami, or “flower-viewing.