The beautiful weeping cherry tree variety (shidare-zakura) have a history stretching back more than three centuries.



The pink flowering cherry blooms convey the message that winter is finally ending and that cherry blossom season, the most famous part of spring in Japan, has arrived.

The estimated 150 trees and 7,000 branches of cherry blossoms make the perfect place for a stroll under a canopy of beautiful flowers.

During the 3-day festival numerous art performances, handicrafts, music, dance and other cultural activities are planned.

Pictured are some of the thousands of people lining up at the entrance to the festival.