Crowds are flocking to Tokyo to enjoy Japan’s most famous cherry blossoms, but the cold weather has delayed the blooming in the city than expected.
TOKYO — Thousands of people gathered in Tokyo on Friday to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossoms, whose blooming was delayed due to cold weather.
Cherry blossoms, known as “Sakura” in Japanese, are a flower beloved by the nation. Cherry blossom viewing parties are often held under the falling petals, and there are also picnics and drinks.
Vidyus Lakshman, 36, a tourist from Canada, said he had seen cherry blossoms in his hometown, but “never on this scale.” The scale here is crazy. ”
Trees typically reach peak flowering in late March to early April, at the same time as the country begins a new school and business year.
“It’s absolutely breathtaking,” said Silver Shea, 47, a tourist from the United States who was visiting Japan for a month with her 11-year-old daughter. “I’m leaving in about a week, and I’m worried that I won’t be able to see the flowers in bloom.”
Some were worried that they would miss out on flowering.
“We waited every day for the cherry blossoms to bloom,” said Sathya Kandula, 30, another tourist from Canada. “I’m leaving tomorrow, so I’m very happy to be able to see it in full bloom on my last day.”
