What is Japan’s favorite tree?
Sakura (桜) is widely regarded as Japan’s national flower, with wild cherries thought (according to a 1970s study) to have grown in the country since before people first populated its islands. People in Japan like to go out with their friends, loved ones and family for Hanami when spring comes and the cherry blossoms start to bloom everywhere. Hanami has a long history! It all started with ‘Ohanami’, meaning viewing of plum blossoms.The practice of viewing cherry blossoms at night is called Yozakura (夜桜) in Japan , which literally means “night sakura. Lanterns or lights are often set up in parks to illuminate the blossoms, creating a surreal, almost magical atmosphere.