2012 Japan-U.S. Cherry Blossom Centennial
(Provisional Proposal)

Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC

 

  • Background

The year 2012 will mark the 100th anniversary of the gift of cherry blossom tress from the people of Japan to the people of the United States that were planted in Washington, DC in 1912.
These cherry blossom trees have survived through war time and have bloomed every year since their planting and have become a symbol of the Japan-U.S. friendship.  Along with the blooming of the cherry blossom trees, the annual Cherry Blossom Festival has grown into one of the biggest Japan-related festivals in the United States. 
There is much anticipation for the scheduled celebratory events for the 2012 Cherry Blossom Festival.

  • Purpose

This centennial celebration is not only an important event for us to reflect on the history and significance of Japan-U.S. friendship exchanges relating to cherry trees, but it is also a good opportunity for us to think about the next 100 years of our friendship.
The cherry blossom trees in Washington, D.C. and across the U.S. will continue to be “goodwill ambassador” symbols of our friendship.  To continue to look to the future, it is our hope that we will continue to organize events, such as planting trees and watch over their growth.

 

  • Planned Initiatives

The annual National Cherry Blossom Festiva takes place for two weeks between the end of March and early April.  The National Cherry Blossom Festival committee, the Japan-America Society, and Congressional institution organize the Opening Ceremony, parade, Cherry Blossom Princess events, and the Sakura Matsuri Street festival.  During this period more than a million people attend the festival.  The Smithsonian museums, as well as other cultural institutions, also host Japan-related cultural events.
      In addition to the annual events mentioned above, such the initiatives as follows are being considered for the special centennial celebration in 2012:

  1. Major Events and Exhibitions Introducing Japanese Culture
  2. Landscaping of the Initial Gifting Site at the Tidal Basin

    3. Landscaping of the part of Tidal Basin where first cherry blossom trees were planted back in 1912 is being planned to commemorate the 100th anniversary.

  3. Nationwide Cherry Blossom Tree Planting Initiative

    4. Consideration of planting more cherry blossom trees across the nation to boost Japan-US friendship.