While so much of the northern hemisphere is recovering from one of the most grueling winters in recent memory, there are many zones that are enjoying one of nature’s most brilliant spectacles. From Tokyo to Vancouver to Washington, cherry and almond tree blossoms are emerging in their full prime and putting on a show that is unlike any other. This year Tokyo’s trees bloomed on March 22nd, which is much earlier than usual for the capital. The Independent writes: “Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine is used as a barometer by the city’s weather agency to judge the beginning of the cherry blossom (sakura) season. The date has been monitored since 1953 and this year’s blossom date shows an early start, matching 2002’s record. The blossoms only last for a few weeks but are expected to be enjoyed through the tradition of hanami, which translates as ‘flower viewing.’ It is often celebrated by picnics and parties beneath the sakura to celebrate the short-lived spectacle.” If you happen to live near the Washington D.C. area you should make a point to visit the city’s annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, which kicked off on March 20th and lasts through to April 14th — you can learn more by visiting NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org. And starting soon is Vancouver’s annual celebration, the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs from April 4th to April 30th — you can learn more by visiting VCBF.ca. And recently, CBS Sunday Morning paid a visit to California’s Central Valley where the almond trees are in full bloom and the blossoms are being pollinated by countless bees at this very moment. It’s not hard to imagine what that would look and smell like — but what do millions of pollinating bees sound like? Check out the video below to find out.
