Japan is one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s known for its giant cites that are full of bright lights and bustling people. It’s known for its incredible shrines and temples that offer solace and seclusion for those who need it. It’s known for being the home to Mount Fuji and it’s snow-capped peak. More than anything, however, it’s known for its Japanese cherry blossom. Tourists descend on Japan in their millions to see this beautiful cherry blossom, but how much do you really know about it?
Cherry blossom is Japan’s national flower
Although we know them as cherry blossoms, those who live in Japan call them “Sakura.” These particular trees can be found in various places around the world, but they are most popular and prevalent in Japan. So much so, in fact, that they are Japan’s national flower. The blossoms make their way out of their buds in the springtime, and Japanese people take part in the tradition of “Hanami.” This allows them to acknowledge the arrival of spring, while also eating delicious food, singing songs, and spending time with their loved ones and taking in the beauty of nature.
Cherry blossom has its very own color
When you look at cherry blossom, there’s no denying the fact that the blossom falls in beautiful petals of pink and light pink. However, those in Japan will state that they are not pink at all. Instead, they have given the cherry blossom their very own color that only ever applies to these beautiful trees. They call this “sakuro-iro,” and this color is then later used in the likes of artwork, kimonos, and pottery to depict the special flowers.
Cherry blossom comes in 11 stages
It’s easy to think that the blossoms simply bloom and then fall. Yet, there’s so much more to these trees than meets the eye. There are cherry blossom experts in Japan, and these people have been able to put together a scale of blossom-ness. There are 11 stages that span the entirety of spring, and these are; budding, bulging bud, flowering, 10% bloom, 30% bloom, 50% bloom, 70% bloom, full bloom, starting to fall, falling, and officially over. We bet that’s a shame when it all comes to an end.
Cherry blossom can be eaten
While it may seem silly to eat something so beautiful, those in Japan do eat the flower petals of the cherry blossom tree. Many people use the petals to infuse their tea, others use them adorn their cookies and pastries, while there are others who pickle them and use them in salads. With such a small window to use them – after all, some trees may only bloom for a week – blossom pickers make their way out into the parks in full force.
Cherry blossom is synonymous with Japan, but it’s important to note that Japan doesn’t take the lead as the country with the most cherry blossom. This award goes to Georgia. Nevertheless, Japan is the only country to have its sakura…
