Beauty of the Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo

The cherry blossom holds a very prominent position in Japanese culture and has been celebrated for many centuries.  The Japanese celebrate this time of year with hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties under the blooming trees.  Hanami can just be a walk in the park but traditionally it involves a picnic party under the blossoming trees.

The cherry blossoms are everywhere, in the parks, sidewalks, between high-rise buildings, next to shrines, in hotel foyers, florists and also celebrated in the Japanese food.  Almost like a "pink cloud" of petals have settled over Tokyo.