Some places of the world have experienced the arrival of spring. Known by numerous names, including forår in Danish, haru in Japanese, and bahaar in Urdu, the season heralds the arrival of plenty and energy. The blooming of the sakura, or cherry blossoms, is another sign of spring. Cherry blossoms may be found all over the world, though they are most famous for their enchanted views in Japan. As they appear, there are celebrations and throughout the spring. If you are unable to visit Japan in the spring or summer, the following places are good places to enjoy cherry blossoms right now:
National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival was first held at the nation’s capital in 1935 as a tribute to the 3000 trees that Japan had donated to the US in 1912. This marked the beginning of the US festival of cherry blossom festivals. Ever since, eleven different types of cherry trees have blossomed at National Capitol Park’s Tidal Basin. The Yoshino cherry trees have begun their full bloom phase, known as Peak Bloom, which can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks, depending on the environment, the park reported early this week.
When you think of New York, you most likely don’t see a splash of pink in the skyline. However, in April, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers a breathtaking view of its 1921-planted cherry trees in full bloom. A stroll around the Japanese Hill, Pond Garden, and Cherry Walk—which is adorned with illuminated cherry trees—are all part of Hanami Nights, a nighttime event. Additionally, you can visit the Lillian and Amy Goldman Atrium to see an exhibit of bonsai or attempt your hand at origami.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Hans Christian Andersen once observed, “One must have sunshine, freedom, and a little blossoming. Just living is not enough.” A two-day Sakura Festival, created in 2008 to commemorate the donation of 200 cherry blossom plants by the Andersen Group of Hiroshima City, marks the arrival of the cherry blossoms in Denmark. In 2005, the trees were planted in observance of Danish novelist Hans Christian Andersen’s 200th birthday. Every year, Langelinie Park’s shoreline hosts the festival. The walkway leading up to the Gefion Fountain is lined with cherry blossoms. The festival showcases Japanese culture with events including judo displays, cosplay competitions, haiku performances, a tea ceremony, and Ikebana preparation.
Stockholm, Sweden
The Swedes, like their neighbour, take great pride in the arrival of spring and the cherry blossoms. Although the bloom usually lasts for four to six weeks in April and early May, you may wish to schedule your vacation around Cherry Blossom Day, an April celebration that is a day-long festival in Stockholm. The event, which is held at Kungsträdgården (King’s Garden), includes cultural and musical acts such martial arts displays, Wadaiko (Japanese drums), and sword art demonstrations.
Best viewing time: April 28, 2024
Singapore
The expansive Gardens By the Bay in Singapore become home to cherry blossoms, whose arrival is commemorated with a month-long Sakura Matsuri Festival. Experience the allure of the sakura trees set against a classic Japanese view and tranquil gardens by passing through a torii, a traditional Japanese gate often erected at the entrance of a shrine. A replica of Kyoto, Japan’s Temple of the Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO tourist treasure, serves as the scene.
Seoul, South Korea
Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in several parts of South Korea from March to early April, with different blooming days in each area. Although you may view the blush pink scenery from a number of locations, such as the Seoul forest, Grand Park, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Khyunghee University, we strongly advise scheduling your visit to coincide with one or more of the festivals that are held in the same month. With approximately 1400 trees in full bloom, Yeouido Cherry Blossom celebration is the most popular celebration in the capital city. You may enjoy a variety of street performers, food vendors, and other displays at the festival. Additionally, you can go to the east and see the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival.
Kashmir, India
Jammu and Kashmir in March and early April is another location to see cherry blossoms in full bloom. They are found throughout the state, in locations including Shopian, Gulmarg, Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Baramulla. Tailbal, renowned for its cherry orchards, is about 13 km from Srinagar. The views are made much more stunning by the carpet of pink and white that the blooms generate. The location is stunning throughout the year.
Travel dates: March–April
