Cherry blossoms are among the most beautiful natural phenomena and a sign of spring’s arrival for many. Every year, people from all over the world flock to Japan to witness the spectacular Sakura season. However, not everyone can afford to travel to Japan to see these pink flowers bloom. Fortunately, there are many places in the United States where you can experience the beauty of cherry blossoms. In this article, we will highlight four areas in the U.S. where you can see cherry blossoms.
Washington, D.C.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., is one of the world’s most famous cherry blossom events. Every year, thousands of visitors come to the Tidal Basin to witness the cherry trees in full bloom. The festival takes place from late March to early April, and it features a variety of cultural events, including parades, performances, and traditional Japanese food.
Image Credit: Eric T Gunther, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, New York City
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City is home to over 200 cherry blossom trees. Every spring, the garden hosts the Sakura Matsuri Festival, which celebrates Japanese culture and cherry blossom season. The festival features traditional Japanese music, dance, tea ceremonies, and food.
Portland Japanese Garden, Oregon
The Portland Japanese Garden in Oregon is a serene place to see cherry blossoms. The garden features eight different varieties of cherry trees and offers stunning views of Mount Hood. In addition to the cherry blossoms, the garden also features a traditional Japanese tea house, a koi pond, and a bonsai collection.
Image Credit: Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons
Macon, Georgia
Macon, Georgia, is the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World. The city boasts over 350,000 cherry trees; it hosts the International Cherry Blossom Festival every spring. The festival features a variety of events, including live music, parades, and food vendors. Visitors can also take guided tours of the city’s many cherry blossom hotspots.
Therefore, viewing cherry blossoms does not require a trip to Japan. There are many places in the United States where you can witness this beautiful phenomenon. Whether on the East Coast or West Coast, there’s a cherry blossom destination for everyone.