Hanami

A very famous tradition in Japan is "hanami" ... gathering under the blossoming cherry trees (sakura) to admire the beauty and purity of these white flowers. They also also create the sensation of snow fall at every slight gust of wind.
"In 1959, the Japanese ambassador to Canada, Toru-Hagiwara, presented the Japanese Sakura trees to the citizens of Toronto on behalf of the citizens of Tokyo. The trees were planted in appreciation of Toronto helping to re-locate Japanese-Canadians." ... "They're also a sign of rebirth and strength." (CBC News 05/10/2010)
We truly enjoyed this beautiful outing to the trees. You can find some additional pictures here.