Cherry blossom viewing in Japan(REUTERS)

Tens of thousands of people went to Tokyo’s Ueno Park to walk around and take photographs of the floral explosion that heralds spring.

For many, “Hanami” or “cherry blossom viewing” in Japan, brings not only the chance to sit and have a picnic but also to socialize and make new friends.

It’s also peak season for tourists according to Japan’s Tourism Ministry, the number of tourists peaked in April Last year thanks to the popularity of cherry blossoms.

The prediction of the cherry blossoms is one that weather broadcasters take seriously, collecting the observations of cherry blossom buds of 10,000 trees across the country.

In Japan the blooming of the cherry blossom generally coincides with the beginning of schools, as the light pink flowers symbolize new beginnings and fresh starts.

(Ryuji Sasaki)

Tags: cherry blossoms, Tokyo residents