{"id":21267,"date":"2023-11-08T09:25:21","date_gmt":"2023-11-08T07:25:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.branchthetree.com\/?p=21267"},"modified":"2023-11-08T09:25:21","modified_gmt":"2023-11-08T07:25:21","slug":"what-does-cherry-blossom-tree-symbolize","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.branchthetree.com\/what-does-cherry-blossom-tree-symbolize\/","title":{"rendered":"What Does Cherry Blossom Tree Symbolize"},"content":{"rendered":"
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History of the Cherry Blossom Tree<\/h2>\n

The Cherry Blossom Tree is a species of flowering plant which is native to the Himalayas, China and Japan. It is primarily found in Japan where it is called ‘sakura’ and is celebrated as one of the national symbols of the country. The classic image of the Japanese landscape is incomplete without the sight of the picturesque cherry blossom trees which bloom brilliantly each year around late March and early April.
\nThis association of the Cherry Blossom Tree to Japan goes back many centuries in its history. Japanese people were in awe of this plant as early as 710 AD, as noted in a poem found in the Man Myōji shin of the Nihonshoki – the oldest chronicle which is said to record the history of Japan in ancient times. Hanami<\/em> is the practice of enjoying the beauty of cherry blossom trees by holding picnics under the trees and is known to have been celebrated since the Heian period (794-1185 AD).<\/p>\n

Symbolism of the Cherry Blossom Tree<\/h2>\n

The Japanese regard the Cherry Blossom Tree with great reverence due to its deep symbolic meaning. To the Japanese, the cherry blossom tree is revered as a symbol of renewal and hope, as the trees bloom famously for about two weeks, after which their petals fall and the cycle of life continues. This is thought to be reminiscent of the transience of life, since everything will eventually disappear from this world.
\nThe life lessons of the cherry blossom tree also extend to personal growth and self-realisation. During the bloom of the cherry blossom tree in Japan, everyone is reminded of the beauty of living and making the best of what you have in life. People take time off from the mundane routine and appreciate the moment for what it is; however brief the time.
\nIn addition, the petals of the cherry blossom tree are thought to be a reminder of the delicate beauty of women. Feudal lords of the past were known to have looked forward to picnics under the cherry blossom trees with their wives, to admire the delicate petals to reflect their appreciation of their wives’ beauty and grace.<\/p>\n

Cherry Blossom Festival<\/h2>\n

The blooming of the Cherry Blossom Tree brings with it the joy of a summer festival celebrating the beauty and rich symbolism of the scene. The Cherry Blossom Festival, or ‘hanami’ in Japanese, is when people get together to enjoy the sight of the beautiful cherry blossom trees in full bloom. During springtime, the parks and public spaces in Japan are transformed into a natural wonderland, adorned by soft and fragrant petals of the cherry blossom tree.
\nThe Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated on different dates each year, and usually lasts for about two weeks. This time is usually crucial for the locals to enjoy and appreciate the alluring scenery of the cherry blossom, before the petals begin to fall. People celebrate the beauty and symbolism of the cherry blossom tree with wearing traditional kimono costumes and having picnics under the trees. Within this context, many traditional Japanese arts and crafts, such as origami and calligraphy, also find their place as part of the festivities.<\/p>\n

Cherry Blossom Tree’s Impact on Tourism in Japan<\/h2>\n

The blooming of the Cherry Blossom Tree contributes to the economic growth of Japan year after year in the form of tourism. The emergence of the Cherry Blossom festivals each spring draws a large influx of visitors to the country, who proclaim to be enthralled by the sight of these delicate and fragrant trees in full bloom.
\nAccording to the Japan National Tourism Organization, some 33.8 million foreign tourists visited Japan in 2018. This surge in tourism adds millions of dollars to the Japanese economy as people spend money renting traditional kimonos, going on sightseeing tours and buying souvenirs. In addition, the popularity of Cherry Blossom festivals and the associated activities have led to the recreation of outdoor spectaculars on a large scale and have encouraged the growth of related businesses.<\/p>\n

Cherry Blossom Tree Around the World<\/h2>\n