Symbols: Flower

Cherry Blossoms

Included in Daily Life box, Festivals & Holidays box

• Description: Cherry blossoms, sakura, are one of the most cherished and beloved flowers in Japan, and  symbolize the arrival of spring.  In an event known as hanami (flower viewing),  groups often gather under cherry blossom trees, spread blankets or sheets, and enjoy parties/feasts with family, friends, and co-workers.  In more densely populated areas, an individual from a party is sent hours, sometimes days prior to hanami, in order to secure an ideal spot for their group.
  For more information, visit:  http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/cultural/hj/cherryblossoms.html

• Links
  • Cherry Blossom Viewing
  • Varieties of  Cherry Blossoms

• Lesson Plans
  • National Symbols of Japan: Cherry Blossom

• Standard Reference
  (If you know of another standard that may link to this item, please add it to the comment box below.)
  • English Language Arts:
    • Grades 3-4: Reading Standards for Informational Texts – #7
    • Grades K-5: Writing Standards – #7, #8
  • Social Studies:
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #1
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #2
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #3
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #4
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #5
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #7
    • Grade K: A Child’s Place in Time – #8
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #1
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #2
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #4
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #5
    • Grade 1: Families Now and Long Ago, Near and Far – #7