Cherry blossoms ( sakura  / 桜) are more than just flowers in Japan. They are a symbol of renewal, fragility, and joy, celebrated for over a thousand years in poetry, festivals, and everyday life. Each spring, a wave of blossoms sweeps the nation from Okinawa’s subtropical islands to Hokkaido’s northern landscapes, painting parks, temples, and riversides in soft shades of pink and white. For travelers, experiencing cherry blossom season means more than just snapping photos. It