How would you describe Japanese cherry blossoms - ‘sakura’? A pretty pink flower? A sign of spring? A symbol of Japan? While all of these statements are true, they don't quite paint the whole picture.

For just a few weeks every spring, Japan celebrates an annual ritual known as hanami. In theory, it’s a simple pleasure: stopping to view and appreciate the beautiful spring blossoms, most commonly ...

Cherry blossoms are an iconic image of Japan – the breathtaking, transient beauty of their fluffy petals of white and pink has enchanted locals and visitors throughout Japan’s history. The weeks when ...