桜 Sakura

Sakura signals the start of Haru (Spring) in Japan. It came later than predicted in Okaya but it did come! The cherry blossoms last about 7 - 10 days from the initial bloom, the magnificant full bloom & finally towards the end when green leaves are poking through the pink or white flowers.

Left: This is in Okaya by the Yokokawa (Yoko River) at the beginning of Sakura.

Right: Driving along the otherside of the Yokokawa during full bloom.
(Yes, I stopped to take the photo)

With Sakura being the symbol of Japan, cherry trees are planted everywhere often in rows lining paths, along rivers & around lakes.

The picture above & the two below are taken at 諏訪湖 Suwa ko

There's a lot about the water, mountains & flowers that appeals to me.