From Japan to the United States, people have taken to the streets to admire the cherry blossoms. For them, the blooming flowers signify “new beginnings” after two years of battling the pandemic.
In Japan, thousands gathered in central Tokyo, around the Imperial Palace and various parks in the city starting March 27, to view the cherry blossoms. In the photo, a woman in traditional attire poses for a photo among the blooming cherry blossoms at Inokashira Park, Tokyo.
At Sumida Park in Tokyo, many people also gathered with friends to enjoy this time. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, cherry blossoms in Tokyo bloomed this year starting March 27, four days earlier than usual.
The bridge over the Edo River, surrounded by rows of cherry trees in Tokyo, is also an ideal spot for many flower lovers. “The cherry blossoms are in full bloom. It’s beautiful,” said 25-year-old Mizuki Taian.
Japanese citizens gather under the cherry blossom trees along the Meguro River in Tokyo on March 27.
Many people also chose to row boats in Chidorigafuchi Park, northwest of the Imperial Palace, to admire the beauty of the cherry blossoms from a different perspective.
People rowing beside blooming cherry blossoms at Chidorigafuchi Park in Tokyo on March 27. 69-year-old Akemi Shimizu expressed her gratitude for being able to see the cherry blossoms this year. “I feel sad every time I watch the news about the war in Ukraine. This year, I feel very lucky to still be able to enjoy the flowers,” she said.
Meanwhile, in a garden in southwestern China, cherry blossoms are also in full bloom.
In Nanjing, China, many people brought their pets to enjoy the cherry blossoms. However, due to the complex COVID-19 situation, residents still adhered to mask-wearing regulations to ensure safety.
On the other side of the globe, Americans are also enjoying the beauty of cherry blossom season. In the photo, Bella Nargis is dancing beneath the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C.
Many people gathered along the Tidal Basin in Washington on March 26 to take pictures and enjoy the atmosphere. The cherry blossom festival is returning to the U.S. after two years of closure due to the pandemic, making many people look forward to it. “This year, we truly understand why the festival is so important,” said Diana Mayhew. “We realize that it’s not just a festival. It’s about spring, renewal, and a sense of new beginnings.”
The Washington Monument viewed from the Tidal Basin in Washington on March 28.
At Mon Repos Park in Lausanne, Switzerland, on March 25, people also gathered to enjoy the cherry blossom season.
Cherry blossoms blooming along a street in Vancouver, Canada, on March 24.
