Cherry blossom trees are synonymous with Japan and springtime. These magnificent pink formations first open in early April and delight for a month with their cloud like beauty. In Japan, their short season is a metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life. Due to their admirable beauty, these gorgeous blossoming trees began being planted in streets and parks all over the Northern Hemisphere. Take a magical journey through the world of cherry blossoms. Learn more as you enjoy the images of this spectacular natural display.
The cherry tree, or Sakura, is an iconic symbol of Japanese culture, known for its delicate and ephemeral beauty. Every spring, these trees burst into a spectacular display of soft, pale pink blossoms that blanket the landscape in a breathtaking sea of color. This annual event, known as cherry blossom season, is an important and cherished time in Japan. It heralds the arrival of warmer weather and serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life, as the blossoms only last for a short period before gently falling to the ground.
Japan is home to numerous cherry tree varieties, with the most widely recognized being the Somei Yoshino. This particular variety boasts pale, almost white flowers that possess a subtle pink hue. Other popular types include the Yoshino, Kanzan, and Shidarezakura, each with their unique characteristics and colors, ranging from deep pink to nearly white. These trees can be found all across the country, with each region boasting its own distinct cherry blossom viewing spots, or hanami, which attract millions of visitors every year.
The cherry blossom season in Japan typically begins in late March and continues through April, though the exact timing varies depending on the region and local climate. The blooming period, known as "sakura zensen," moves northward from the warmer southern regions of Okinawa to the colder northern regions of Hokkaido. The peak of the blossoming, or "mankai," occurs when 70-80% of the blossoms have opened, and is the most sought-after period for cherry blossom viewing.
In addition to being a significant cultural event, the cherry blossom season also holds economic importance for Japan. The influx of tourists, both domestic and international, generates substantial revenue for the country as visitors flock to popular cherry blossom sites to witness the captivating display. Moreover, the blooming period has inspired a wide range of cherry blossom-themed products, such as food, beverages, clothing, and souvenirs, which further contribute to Japan's economy. Ultimately, the cherry trees and their breathtaking blooms not only symbolize the arrival of spring but also represent a cherished aspect of Japanese culture and identity.
These Photos Have Amazed the World...
From the epic majesty of our galaxy to the pure, simple beauty of a tortoise interacting with a butterfly, these photos are wonderful.
Perhaps the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World...
Although there are much quicker ways of traveling, using a train is arguably much more picturesque than the others. Here are the 7 most scenic train rides.
Witness Nature’s Awakening in 15 Early Spring Photos
Early spring is a very special and inspiring season of the year. Witness nature's beautiful revival in these landscapes and pictures of flowers
The Most Beautiful Locations to Enjoy this Coming Spring!
Winter is over and the flowers are waking up and blossoming. These gorgeous photos show us how truly remarkable nature is.
The Flowers & Blossoms of Fruit Trees Are Achingly Pretty
There are few things in this world that are quite as magical as a flowering or blossoming fruit tree. Take a look at 15 stunning images of fruit tree flowers.
12 Beautiful Gardens That Show Another Side of Europe
Europe is a favorite for people from all over the world, but apart from the ancient buildings and historical sites, it also has some of the most beautiful gardens in the world.
There are So Many Reasons for Us to Love Penguins
Penguins are as beautiful as they are fascinating. Here is all you need to know about these wonderful birds...
Wildlife Is Even More Beautiful In 4K Definition!
The wildlife in Myanmar is beautiful, and we're lucky enough to witness it being captured in 4K definition. Enjoy!
Woman Captures Stunning Photos of Birds in Her Back Yard!
Although the weather and seasons in Germany and Michigan are quite similar, one woman realized that the birds are different. She took some great photos to prove this.
16 Fascinating Plants You Have to See to Believe!
How many of these interesting plants have you seen before?
This Flower Gets Its Name From the Animal It Resembles
These beautiful orchids are not man made, although they may seem like it to us.
The Most Adorable Otter Ever Will Teach You About Otters
This little orphaned river baby otter is so cute, you'll never want to stop watching it. But if you do, you'll learn all about otters while accompanying on his little day. Are you ready to learn about otters?
15 Mind-Blowing Facts About Our Feathered Friends
From your friendly neighborhood crow to some of the rarest bird species in the world, here are 15 fantastic facts about birds.
These Photos Prove How Colorful and Beautiful Our World Is
Our planet is so beautiful and full of color, and these photo go a long way to proving just that.
Together, These Animals Create Breathtaking Scenes
When people stand together, they become strong! When animals come together, the results are magical!
15 Bizarre Animals You Just Don't See Every Day...
There are so many odd species of animals roaming the corners of the Earth. 15 bizarre looking animals I never knew existed on the planet!
The Most Beautiful Birds in the World Are in Costa Rica
The Jungles of Costa Rica are rich in beautiful animal life, none more beautiful than the many birds that call it home.
These Stunning Waterfalls Will Take Your Breath Away!
Waterfalls are a thing of beauty which never fail to impress! Check out 17 of the world's greatest waterfalls here!
The Sheer Beauty of Nature Is Captured in Words & Images
Enjoy these spectacular photos alongside some words of wisdom.
How Well Do You Know Canada's 9 Wildest Animals?
Canada is home to some fascinating animals. Some are cuddly, some of dangerous, but all hold pride of place in the natural wonderland of Canada.
INTERACTIVE: Click to See the English Tide Come and Go...
This interactive photo presentation lets you click on images taken by Michael Marten, and see the English tide coming in and going out.
These Wholesome Animal Titbits Will Make You Smile
Here are some adorable animal facts that will keep you smiling all day.
Lions! What You Didn't Know About This Amazing Creature
There is so much to know about this beautiful yet terrifying beast of the wild. This video takes you on a trip of discovery of numerous interesting things you probably didn't know about Lions.
These Creatures Are So Scary You'll Be Happy They're Extinct
Once you read more about these extinct animals - you'll be happy you won't have to see them in real life.
Witness the Magical Views of Norway's Northern Islands
The amazing place you are about to see in this video is Svalbard - an archipelago that is in the northernmost part of the entire kingdom of Norway.
The Amazing Life of a National Geographic Photographer.
Cory Richards has been all over the world and went through a life and death experience, this is what he has to say to you…
Fly Through the Most Royally Stunning Castles of Europe!
I love this wonderful drone footage of the great castles and palaces of old Europe so much I just had to share it with you. It's a true life fairytale.
Animals Don't Need the Word Love. They Use It All the Time.
The Animals Fell In Love Today...
The Top 10 Animal World Record Holders Are Totally Awesome
From a bird doing slam dunks to a dog freely skateboarding through a human tunnel, here are the top ten animal Guinness World Record holders!
Few Flowers are as Colorful as the Tulip...
Tulips are some of the most stunning flowers imaginable. Take a look at these breathtaking photos to find out why.
This is What Pure Love Looks Like in the Animal Kingdom
This heart-warming photo series proves that the love between a parent and child is universal.
Amazing Nature: Can a Lion Fend Off 20 Hyenas?
What happens when Red the lion gets attacked by a pack of hyenas?
You May Learn Some New Dance Moves Thanks to These Birds
Watch this hilarious, yet sweet compilation of bird mating dances.
WATCH: 12 Stunning Underwater Landscapes On Video
Live under the waves is fascinating and beautiful, but it's only recently that we've been able to capture it in all its glory. View these 12 stunning videos.
16 EERIE Close-Ups of Bugs Under a Microscope
Take a look at these terrifying close-ups of insect faces.
This Is How Mother Birds Care for Their Sweet Chicks
Motherhood is a wonderful thing. It binds not only humans together, but birds too. These photos are simply amazing.
Starlings Are Master Sound Imitators - Fascinating!
Did you know that the European starling is capable of mimicking practically any sound it hears with uncanny precision? That includes human voices.
The Most Stunning Bird Photography of Recent Years...
These gorgeous and exotic birds are the object of some of the most stunning photography of recent years.
Nature After Dark: Exploring 8 Nocturnal Animals
Let us take you up close and personal with some of the most unusual nocturnal animals of our world.
Here's What Happens When Animals Befriend People...
Here are 20 cute pictures of woodland animals that simply love to befriend people!
9 Heartwarming Instances of Wild Animals Saving Humans
Animals are more intelligent and kind than we give them credit for, and these 9 touching stories prove that
Find Out More About North American Butterflies Here
Mankind has always been fascinated by butterflies and that fascination hasn't died down today. Take a look at these informative images.
These Horses All Have the Most Amazing Hair!
These horse breeds all have an amazing hair! Enjoy getting to know some of the world's most beautiful horse breeds, along with some facts.
Learn the True Art Behind the Bonsai Tree
Ryan Neil is an expert in the art of shaping Bonsai Trees, and will take you on a journey into yourself through nature!
The Most Incredible Animal Friendships!
in reality, animals can sometimes remind us of childhood stories and tv programs - sometimes the unlikely friendships are indeed made by animals, and here's the proof:
A Flower Timelapse That Will Brighten Up Your Day
In Bloom: A stunning video evolution of flowers opening
These Beautiful Bird Photos Are Beyond Incredible
The Bird Photographer of the Year Awards receives some of the most stunning examples of bird photography. Here are some of those.