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Photograph by Danny Dungo, National Geographic Your Shot
25 gorgeous photos of cherry blossoms
Embrace spring with these fleeting blooms around the world.
ByStarlight Williams
2 min read
Symbolizing the return of spring, travelers flock to catch a glimpse of the fragrant, pink blooms that were first made famous in Japan but appear worldwide. Delicate in nature and color, cherry blossoms, or sakura, mirror human life—beautiful, cherished, but brief.
Hanami, or flower-viewing parties, date back to the 9th century when Japanese emperors would hold celebrations for the cherry and plum blossoms that would bud in early spring. The world’s love for cherry blossoms have not diminished. (See beautiful photos of Japan's cherry blossoms.)
People around the world gather during the changing season to celebrate these fleeting blooms.
Want more blossoms? These Your Shot pictures capture both the simple, yet stunning beauty of the season and the joy it brings to people.
Starlight Williams is an editorial researcher and writer at National Geographic. Follow her on Twitter @star_lightw and Instagram @starlightwilliams.
This story was originally published on March 18, 2019. It was updated Match 25, 2022 to reflect new information.
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