Sakura (cherry blossom) is the national flower of Japan, and there are over four hundred varieties of cherry trees across the country. An old Japanese word for spring is sakura-doki or "cherry blossom time" an indication of the age-old Japanese passion for cherry blossoms.

The cherry blossom blooms at different times throughout Japan beginning in January in the South (Okinawa), sweeping up across the country until late May when they peak in Hokkaido, in the North. During this time, cherry blossom viewing parties (hana-mi) are held under the cherry trees. It has been a Japanese custom since the...