Japan gifts 250 cherry blossom trees to the U.S. as a symbol of friendship.
As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Japan will add to the festivities with a special gift. The original gift of 3,020 cherry blossom trees from the city of Tokyo to Washington, DC in 1912 has grown into the four-week celebration of springtime and Japan-U.S. friendship known as the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The 250 new cherry blossom trees will serve as another thriving symbol of the steadfast friendship between the two countries.
Cherry blossoms have become synonymous with springtime in DC and draw millions of people to the area each year. Just like many of the original trees gifted from Japan to the U.S. over 100 years ago, the new cherry blossom trees will be of the Yoshino variety. Each year, as the trees continue to bloom, visitors and residents alike will gather under the pretty pink and white petals to see Japanese performers on the ANA Stage, celebrate Japanese culture at the Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival and experience the exciting Japan-themed events the season has to offer.
The new cherry blossom trees will be planted in phases around the Tidal Basin and other prominent areas in the District, including the U.S. National Arboretum and Anacostia Park. Visitors can expect even more spectacular displays of blossoms in the coming years as the trees mature.
The ongoing project includes continuing efforts to cultivate and maintain Japan’s gift of cherry blossom trees. Updates on planting progress, peak bloom predictions and future events related to the trees will be available on the National Park Service and National Cherry Blossom Festival websites.
Partner Content