My favourite flower is the Cherry Blossom which also plays a large role in Japanese Culture. Hanami is the traditional celebration of the Cherry Blosson, or Sakura, and it acts as a popular rite of Spring for the Japanese people. As the Sakura is native to Japan, hundreds of different varieties are cultivated and celebrated. Television, newspapers and weather reports provide blossom forecast information throughout the Hanami season, keeping all Japanese people in tune with the Sakura's blossoming. Many legends surround the sakura including its recognition as a sign to begin the rice planting season. Cherry Blossoms are not the official flower of Japan, though a single cherry blossom was the crest of the Japanese Imperial army.
 Picnics Taking Place At A Traditional Hanami |