Cherry Blossoms

Spring is one of the most beautiful times in Japan, especially when the cherry blossoms, or sakura, come into full bloom and millions of Japanese fill the parks for cherry-blossom-viewing picnics called hanami. Cherry blossoms symbolize both the beauty and impermanence of life and their arrival is eagerly anticipated every spring. The school year also begins as the sakura start to bloom and, so, many Japanese feel both a sense of nostalgia for the past while simultaneously embracing hope for new beginnings. Unfortunately, I didn't get to any major temples or shrines this year, so the pictures I'm posting don't really do justice.