Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry)

The Somei Yoshino is the most widespread type of cherry blossom in Japan, producing beautiful flowers ranging from white to pale pink across the country in spring. It is said to have been named because it was marketed by gardeners from the village of Somei, and it is a cultivar developed in the late Edo period.

When more than 80% of the buds have opened

The criterion for “full bloom” in cherry blossoms refers to when roughly 80% or more of the buds on a tree have opened. While it can vary depending on the individual tree and your viewing angle, once this threshold is reached, you can enjoy the beauty of blossoms in full splendor across the tree.

spiritual beauty

The cherry blossom’s flower language is said to be “spiritual beauty.” This expresses how the delicate, fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms symbolizes elevated spirituality and the beauty of the heart. In Japan, cherry blossoms herald the arrival of spring and are loved by many people, who cherish a culture of appreciating their brief moment of beauty.

To solidify the ground

While one reason cherry trees are commonly planted along riverbanks is their beautiful scenery, a more important reason is that their roots extend deep underground and help firmly stabilize the soil. This is especially beneficial for river levees, which are prone to collapse during floods, as cherry trees help reinforce those embankments.

100-yen coin

The coin that features cherry blossoms is the 100-yen coin. The reverse side of this coin incorporates a cherry blossom design, giving it a refined beauty. Among Japanese coins, the cherry blossom motif is one of the most beloved designs and symbolizes the beauty of Japan’s nature and culture.

Toyotomi Hideyoshi

The answer is Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In 1598, he hosted a grand cherry-blossom viewing banquet at Mount Yoshino in Osaka, a famous spot for sakura. Warlords and feudal lords were invited, making it a major event that went on to influence the style of cherry-blossom viewing thereafter.

Rosaceae

Cherry trees are plants that belong to the Rosaceae family. There are many diverse varieties, and during the flower-viewing season people across Japan can enjoy their beautiful blossoms. The Rosaceae is a taxonomic group that includes many plants, and it contains a variety of plants other than roses.

March 27

Sakura Day refers to March 27 and was established as a commemorative day in 1989 by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association. The date originates from gatherings held in the Heian period to appreciate cherry blossoms, and even today it is a day when many people enjoy and cherish the blossoms.

Oshima cherry

The leaves used for sakuramochi are from the Oshima cherry. The name “Oshima cherry” is said to come from Izu Oshima, where this cherry is widely distributed. Oshima cherry leaves are fragrant and enhance the flavor of sakuramochi.

5 pieces

The number of petals on cherry blossoms is generally five. This is a characteristic seen in many varieties, including Somei Yoshino, the representative species of cherry blossom, and their beautiful appearance is beloved by many people. Some varieties do have six or more petals.