In 1912, cherry trees were planted in Washington, DC as a gift of friendship from the People of Japan to the People of the United States.
The trees are celebrated in Japan as powerful symbols of human life and the historical evolution of Japanese culture. Cherry blossoms – or sakura – are Japan’s national flower, symbolizing spring, a time of renewal and the fleeting nature of human life.
In March 1912, First Lady Helen Taft and the wife of the Japanese ambassador held a small ceremony at the Tidal Basin, where two “Yoshino” cherry trees were planted in the location of what is now Independence Ave. Southwest.
This humble ceremony celebrated in friendship with Japan grew into what is now the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which draws more than 1.5 million visitors to Washington, DC, each year.
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