Yokohama: Indicating the onset of spring, beautiful 'Someiyoshino' cherry blossoms in full bloom dot the streets in Japan's Yokohama this time of the year once again. The cherry blossom, or 'Sakura', is a common Japanese symbol for spring.
Bringing cheer after long winter months, both locals and tourists alike flock to gardens to take part in viewing events to appreciate the beauty of the blooms. Japan's second-most populated city, Yokohama, has many famous cherry blossom spots like the 'Minato Mirai' harbour, the banks of the Ooka river, and the Sankei-en garden to name a few.
At the Minato Mirai harbour, tourists can enjoy the blossoms with modern buildings in the background and the blue expanse of the sea. The town is decorated with not only cherry blossoms but also with other colourful flowers during spring, which are celebrated through a festival that exhibits a variety of flowers like roses and lilies.
There are around 600 cherry trees around the Ooka river. The beauty of the flora can be enjoyed by sitting by the banks or taking a boat ride. At night, scores of lanterns are lit to illuminate the cherry blossom trees, the petals of which can be seen floating on the river.
Viewing events are also held during the night time at the Sankei-en garden, which was established in 1906. These events provide tourists with a great atmosphere to view the blooming cherry blossoms, with the traditional Japanese pagodas in the backdrop.
Another famous cherry blossom spot in Yokohama is the Shinto shrine, Iseyamakotai. The shrine gives its guests a window into 'Shintoism' while providing a scenic, traditional atmosphere, enhanced by the blooming blossoms.
Every spot in Yokohama city is surrounded by the cherry blossoms. Around 260 cherry trees are present in the Nogeyama animal park. Out of the 600 different kinds of cherry trees in Japan, the ones in Yokohama are the typical 'Someiyoshino' cherry variety.
Most of these 'Someiyoshino' trees begin to bloom at the same time, creating a beautiful scene. Every year Japan Meteorological Agency declares the date of bloom of other cherry blossom trees based on the 'Someiyoshino' flowers. The peak season to view the blossoms is from last week of March to April second week.
