Sakura - Cherry Blossoms - II

Sakura, or Cherry blossoms as you know them, are not meant for the tropics. The weather is just not suitable. However, you can see Sakura in bloom in the Flower Dome, where it is eternal spring. Of course, there is no comparing them with those in Japan.

In Japan, Cherry blossoms are also tourist seasons. There is a festival dedicated to ‘Hanami’ - which literally means ‘watching blossoms’, watching the falling of the Sakura flowers. During the festival, people gathered for picnics, or just to watch the ‘Sakura snow’. Viewing spots are crowded with people enjoying the blossoms in a beautiful, romantic atmosphere.

Signalling the onset of spring, cherry blossom season symbolises a time of renewal, bringing hope and new dreams at the beginning of the Japanese calendar year.

Most cherry blossom varieties bloom in spring, and only last for about one to two weeks. Changes in weather can affect both the time of flowering and the length of the blooming season.

Generally, the milder the climate, the earlier the blossoms open, but strong wind and rain can cause the petals to shed sooner.

Some of the trees looked like they were just beginning to bloom.

This year, there are over 30 varieties of cherry, peach, and plum blossoms on display in the Flower Dome. As usual, as with all flower displays, there was a crowd – tourists and locals at the Sakura display. This made taking photos difficult. Everyone was in everyone’s way.

‘Sakura 2026’ is now on until the 15th of April. Admission fees apply. Adults pay $12 SGD, Seniors and children below 12 years old pay $8 SGD.

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