IT'S SPRING IN JAPAN!

Springtime in Japan is absolutely spectacular with so many beautiful flowers especially the "Sakura" (Cherry blossoms). It's time to enjoy the warmth of Spring after the cold Winter.There is nothing more pleasant than strolling under a canopy of cherry blossoms. Me and my family had never missed visiting the parks every Spring when we were there in the 90s.Miura san again reminded me of so many fond memories with these beautiful pictures taken at the park in Iwatsuki, Saitama.To many Japanese, the " Hanami" or "花見", literally means "flower viewing" (Cherry blossoms) season is one of the most pleasurable times of the year. There are many species of Sukura. One of my favourite is the Shidare-zakura. The tree with branches that fall like a weeping willow bearing bright pink double flowers. The beautiful Shidare zakura "枝垂れ桜" is also know as "weeping cherry blossoms". Families and friends could be seen cherishing the beautiful surrounding in the park. I hope this Spring will bless Japan for a speeding recovery from the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami.

Every year, I would return to Japan for holiday especially for the "Hanami". I was unable to make it this Spring because of the recent unfortunate disaster in Northern Japan. " 残念ですね" (too bad, I could'nt make it)