Sakura hunting season

Its that glorious time of year. Spring flowers abound. Moreover, the cherry blossoms have started to bloom in Saitama Prefecture. The State of Emergency was lifted on Sunday, but of course Coronavirus is still in our midst. There was never a better time to get out and about and enjoy the gifts of Mother Nature. 

Cherry blossoms are of course one of the highlights of the annual calendar in Japan. In Saitama, the vast majority of cherry blossom festivals have been cancelled. Also, many parks have banned picnicking under the cherry blossoms this year. But you can still find a few places where its permitted. Such as in the park of the featured photo, taken at Citizen's Forest Minuma Green Center March 23rd. Even when its not permitted, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy viewing the sakura.  

I have to admit, I go a little crazy for sakura each and every year! So far this year I've already been to at least ten places to admire the short lived stunning sakura scenes. Are the cherry blossoms blooming in your area yet? Will you go sakura hunting this year?