Why did Japan make cherry blossoms its national flower?
Cherry blossoms have important symbolic and aesthetic values in Japanese culture.
First of all, cherry blossoms have been regarded as "national flowers" in Japan dating back to the Heian period (794-1185), when cherry blossoms were considered symbols of aristocratic culture and aesthetics. In Japanese poetry, painting, and literature, cherry blossoms are often described as an aesthetic element of elegance, purity, and beauty.
Secondly, cherry blossoms are also considered to be a symbol of the spirit and lifestyle of the Japanese people. Every spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, people gather in parks, gardens, streets, etc. for cherry blossom viewing events (called "cherry blossom viewing") to celebrate the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new life. This activity has become one of the traditional cultures of Japan and is also seen as an expression of Japanese people's reverence and gratitude for nature.
In conclusion, cherry blossoms play a very important role in Japanese culture, being seen as a symbol of aesthetics and culture, as well as representing the spirit and way of life of the Japanese people. Therefore, it is very fitting that cherry blossoms were chosen as the national flower of Japan.
